Discover Florida’s Autumn Foliage: How Climate Change is Transforming Fall Colors & Top Spots to Experience Leaf Changes

The fall season kicked off on September 22, 2025, but in Florida, we’re still feeling the heat. While some regions enjoy vibrant autumn colors, Florida’s foliage changes are subtler. The state’s trees do shift hues, but the timing and intensity vary based on weather patterns, particularly rainfall and temperature.

Typically, peak fall foliage happens from late September through November across the U.S., but this timing can shift yearly. Recent studies highlight that warmer nights in the fall have increased by an average of 2.7°F across 212 locations in the U.S. since 1970 (Climate Central). These warmer temperatures can delay the onset of leaf color changes and shorten the peak period. If temperatures stay warmer for longer, tree responses are delayed, leading to shorter, less vibrant displays.

This change may disrupt the ecological balance and economic benefits of fall foliage. For instance, too little rainfall can stress trees, leading to earlier leaf drop. Research shows that a more variable climate increases extreme weather events, which could directly impact these seasonal displays.

If you’re looking for color in Florida during fall, here are some great spots to check out:

• Torreya State Park: Just an hour from Tallahassee, this park sits on the southern edge of the Appalachian Mountain Range. It features southern sugar maple and sweetgum trees, which showcase beautiful colors in late October. The park’s scenic vistas are worth the visit.
• Falling Waters State Park: Home to Florida’s tallest waterfall, this park offers trails with colorful foliage amidst scenic trails and a deep sinkhole. It’s a fantastic spot for hiking and enjoying vibrant leaves.
• Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park: South of Tallahassee, this park features historic attractions alongside falls bursting with color, like red sugar maples and purple beautyberry bushes.
• Ormond Scenic Loop and Trail: North of Daytona Beach, this stunning 30-mile trail weaves through state parks, showcasing red maples among oak trees and scenic marshes. Perfect for cyclists and nature lovers alike.

In Inverness, the Flying Eagle Preserve spans nearly 11,000 acres and features colorful hardwoods. Meanwhile, in South Florida, you won’t see traditional fall colors but will enjoy the soft purples of muhly grass, which blooms in the fall. Known as the “River of Grass,” the Everglades have unique beauty during this time, with the brilliant purple flowers drawing attention and providing a different kind of fall display.

So, while Florida’s autumn colors may not compare to those of the Northeast, the subtler changes offer their own charm. Whether you’re hiking in state parks or simply enjoying the scenery, there’s beauty to be found as the seasons shift.

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