Fall is one of the most captivating seasons on the North Shore and Gunflint Trail. Our deep green forests transform into brilliant fields of red, orange and yellow over the course of a few short weeks. Whether your fall color viewing plan is to go for a hikebike or a scenic fall color drive - we're here to help guide you toward the best activities

 

How to track the fall colors on the North Shore and Gunflint Trail

The MN DNR does a great job of updating their Minnesota Fall Color Map on a regular basis to make planning peak viewing a little easier. Of course, nature does have a mind of her own and can change at any time. Our recommendation is to make a plan but be prepared for things to change.

2025-09-12

Tracking Fall Color in Cook County MN

We want to keep you up to date with what is happening locally this autumn. Each week, we'll post a new image of what is happening right now in Cook County. To see more frequent updates, please follow our FacebookTwitterYouTube, and Instagram channels. You'll find additional content from us as well as reposts and stories sharing more and more of this great place with you virtually. Use #donorthmn to join the conversation. 

 

This week's latest North Shore Fall Color Report:

October 8, 2025: Peak maple fall is over, up next...the golden birch and aspen along the North Shore and up the Gunflint Trail. The first hard frost of the season also arrived early in the morning on October 8. 

September 25, 2025: It is as vibrant and vibrant can be in the maple forest! From above the tree line to below the canopy, the color is ground to sky electric. Still waiting for the birch and aspen to start turning in large quantities, but as typical, this week is looking top-notch for maple lovers!

September 16, 2025: The maple treetops have exploded with brilliant color this week! Expect to see lots of vibrant reds and orange on the treetop level. Less color below the canopy right now but that is changing daily.  

September 3, 2025: Fall is nearing! There are pockets of vibrant colors popping up all over in the maples. 

Find this week's current Fall Color Conditions update and view a historical look back at prior years and what to expect week by week.  Fall is one…

Can you see fall colors from space?

Apparently YES! Below are two photos taken one year apart on the autumnal equinox demonstrating the difference between years. 

Fall 2020 - LakeSuperior - Space Angle from Coast Watch GLERL.Noaa

Fall 2021 - LakeSuperior - Space Angle from Coast Watch GLERL.Noaa