Leaf Changes Already Halfway Done North of St. Cloud

(KNSI) – Fall color is coming significantly earlier than in past years, with areas not far from St. Cloud already at 50% of peak.

Most state park results on the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Fall Color Finder page were updated over the weekend, including Charles Lindbergh State Park in Little Falls. As of the 14th, it was seeing a near full turn in grasses and brush, with leaves at least a quarter changed. Similar progress is estimated throughout Morrison County and into the northern parts of Stearns and Benton County, down to Le Sauk Township and Rice.

The zone is the farthest south where the transition is so far along. You can also find about half of peak color shining on trees in the Taylors Falls area along the St. Croix River. Most of the northern portion of the state is also well on its way.

Lake Maria State Park in Sherburne County is only 10-25% changed. Western Stearns County has just begun. This week’s near-record temperatures should slow things down, at least temporarily. Plenty of rain this summer and sunny, dry days to kick off fall is a practically perfect combination for spectacular color. The band is tuned up, and the show is about to start.

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