This is when fall color will look best near you in SC 2024 and where there’s top viewing
For many, particularly in the South, fall began with the start of football season.
Others are still waiting for a crisp, cool breeze and of course, a dash of color.
Trees will soon turn hues of red, orange and gold in many parts of the U.S. South Carolina is a state known for its abundance of natural splendor and so has its fair share of fall color.
But when will leaves start to change colors in the Palmetto State and when will fall foliage reach its peak this year?
SmokyMountains.com, a travel brand that mainly promotes the Smoky Mountain region, has for the last several years produced interactive U.S. maps that predict fall foliage for all parts of the country. To try the interactive map for South Carolina, check below.
Fall color map
Based on the map, while many parts of the U.S. have started seeing fall foliage this month, only parts of the Upstate will notice minor changes around Sept. 30. By Oct. 14, large parts of many states will be in their peak for fall color, but South Carolina colors still won’t be at their best.
For the South Carolina Upstate, between Oct. 21 and Oct. 28 will be the best time to see fall foliage this year. The Midlands won’t see peak fall color until around Nov. 4. And around Nov. 11 will be the best time for fall foliage in the Lowcountry.
To view and manipulate the full interactive map, click here.
Fall map methodology
According to SmokyMountains.com, the map is compiled using a refined data model that depends on several factors, such as historical temperature and precipitation, forecast temperature and precipitation, the type of tree known to be prominent in each geographic region, the historical trends in that area and user data. Last year, the site introduced the capability for end-users to provide real-time leaf reports that will impact both updates and future models.
Best SC spots for fall color
While there will be plenty of opportunities to see fall color around South Carolina, some places will be better than others.
According to Southern Living, the Swamp Rabbit Trail in Greenville and Travelers Rest are two of the best places to see fall foliage in the South this year. The magazine recommends bicycling through both areas to fully enjoy the changing fall leaves.
This story was originally published September 20, 2024 at 6:00 AM.
