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Foliage Report for September 17, 2025
Warmth of Extended Summer Slows Foliage
(AUGUSTA, Maine) - The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) has released its second 2025 Maine Fall Foliage Report, showing very little color change (generally under 10 percent statewide, and under 30 percent in northern Maine), with very low leaf drop throughout the entire state.
Typically, northern Maine (zones 6 and 7) reaches peak conditions between the last week of September and the first week of October. Color change moves from north to south, with peak conditions for the rest of the state expected by mid-October. Coastal Maine usually experiences peak foliage from mid- to late October.
"We've been on a bit of a roller-coaster ride regarding the weather. Maine has experienced a long stretch of summer-like conditions going into mid-September. Not to worry, though," notes Gale Ross, DACF fall foliage spokesperson. Sweater weather is on the way for the upcoming weekend! As the days grow shorter and the nights grow longer and cooler, nature's paintbrush will take over to reveal the breathtaking autumn colors. It's the perfect time to start planning your outdoor adventures for the coming weeks, Ross added.
Follow the 2025 Maine fall foliage forecast this season and take advantage of autumn events, activities, and tips for colorful road trips throughout Maine:
- With the official start of autumn just around the corner, it's the perfect time to visit one of the state's fall fairs. The Common Ground Country Fair opens Friday, followed by the Cumberland County Fair on Sunday. Common Ground highlights organic agriculture and sustainable living, while Cumberland County offers agricultural fun, a demolition derby, pumpkin contests, and live entertainment. Enjoy a scenic drive on a trip to the Lakes and Mountains region for the 27th Annual Bethel Harvestfest on Saturday, September 20, held on the town common. Browse the farmers market, artists and craft vendors, witness the apple pie contest, and enjoy live music, kids activities, and other fall fun.
- For Maine seafood enthusiasts, Maine Lobster Week also starts on Sunday. This annual week is dedicated to supporting Maine's lobster industry and highlighting lobster-inspired cuisine. Check the website for participating restaurants and locations.
Fall Foliage Traveler Tips
- Book accommodations early, especially in popular foliage destinations, as weekends can fill quickly.
- Dress in Layers: Maine mornings and evenings can be chilly this time of year, even if afternoons are warm.
- Take the Scenic Route: Maine's scenic byways and country roads provide the best leaf-peeping opportunities and often lead to hidden gems.
- Taste the Season: Pair your road trip with a stop at an orchard, farm stand, or harvest festival for a true taste of autumn in Maine.
Follow Maines official foliage forecast online or by email, and share your adventures with #MaineFoliage. Stay inspired through the Maine Fall Foliage Facebook and Instagram, featuring fresh images and seasonal activities from across the state. For even more fall trip ideas and travel planning resources, visit www.visitmaine.com.
| Zone Number | Color Change | Leaf Drop |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | Low | Very Low |
| 6 | Low | Very Low |
| 5 | Low | Very Low |
| 4 North | Low | Very Low |
| 4 South | Very Low | Very Low |
| 3 | Low | Very Low |
| 2 | Very Low | Very Low |
| 1 | Very Low | Very Low |
Foliage Zones
Zone 7: Northeastern Maine, including Fort Kent, Caribou, and Presque Isle
Zone 6: Northwestern Maine
Zone 5: Western Mid-Maine, including Greenville, Rangeley, Bethel
Zone 4: Eastern Mid-Maine, including Houlton, Millinocket, and Calais
Zone 3: Central and Southwestern Maine, including Bangor, Augusta, and Fryeburg
Zone 2: Downeast Maine, including Machias, Bar Harbor, and Penobscot Bay
Zone 1: Mid-Coast and South Coastal Maine, including Camden, Portland, Kennebunkport, and Kittery