Discover When Leaves Change Color in Maryland (Plus 5 Places with Beautiful Foliage)

Maryland’s autumn color truly is beautiful to see. With sunny skies and chilly nights, the crisp air in this New England state is one of the first signs of fall. Another sign that this amazing season is upon us is the changing of leaves! 

Continue reading if you want to learn about optimum color forecasts and the best spots in Maryland to see the fall colors if you want to enjoy all this state has to offer! 

When Do Leaves Change Color in Maryland?

In the state of Maryland, the first signs of autumn color appear in the first week of October and continue through early to mid-November, when all the leaves have fallen. It all begins in the western portion of the state. 

The leaves typically begin shifting color early, then as the season goes on, the color transition spreads eastward. There are many different types of evergreen trees, but there likewise exist many deciduous trees that transform color magnificently in the fall. 

Beautiful displays of golden, bronze, and crimson leaves can be seen throughout the state. Some of the most common trees found here are oak and maple. By the end of October, the majority of Maryland is blanketed in shades of yellow and orange leaves. 

The Best Places to See Fall Foliage in Maryland

1. Chesapeake and Ohio Canal

The first place on our list is somewhere you can find throughout much of the state. Whether you want to immerse yourself in the woods or take a leisurely bike ride through nature, the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal is a must-see! 

There are many hiking options available along the 184.5 miles of the C&O Canal. Visiting here leads to a reward of panoramic views of the Potomac River surrounded by vibrantly colored woods throughout the trails. 

20,000 acres of forests make up the region around the canal. This historic park provides many chances to take in the beautiful surroundings while taking part in exhilarating outdoor activities.

2. Patapsco Valley State Park

Anything a nature lover could want could potentially be discovered in this Maryland state park, particularly during the fall. In the Old Line State, seeing the bridge is reason enough to go! 

Some of the most incredible landscapes of the Patapsco River Valley may be seen in the Hollofield Area, which makes up a small section of over 16,000 acres that make up the Patapsco Valley State Park.

The Overlook at Hollofield Area is the perfect place to take in the splendor as beautiful shades of green along the banks of the river give way to vivid oranges and yellows, magnificent golds, and deep reds each fall when the temperatures dip. 

3. Deep Creek Lake

Autumnal colors are in full bloom at Deep Creek Lake, which was just voted one of the top spots in the nation to view fall foliage. You’ll be amazed by this wonderful place, particularly when it’s in optimum autumnal color, whether you’re lounging by the water or exploring the picturesque mountain trails. 

In this region of the state, the beginning of October is the peak time of year to see fall colors. Deep Creek offers a variety of options to take in the gorgeous landscape. We suggest getting out on the lake and taking in a 360-degree view of all the area has to offer! 

4. Eastern Neck Wildlife Refuge

Several possibilities exist in the Eastern Neck Wildlife Refuge to take in nature’s beauty. Stroll the park’s simple pathways, admire the area’s lovely birds in the wild, and take in the breathtaking fall foliage.

One of the refuge’s two walkways is an excellent site for photography and offers amazing perspectives of the Chester River and the Chesapeake Bay. There also happen to be numerous picnic spots located around the refuge, perfect for a tranquil picnic under the canopy of trees. 

5. Tuckahoe State Park

There are around 20 miles of trails in Tuckahoe State Park for bicycling, running, and even equestrian riding. Along these trails, you’ll find yourself immersed in fall colors at every turn. It’s hard to beat having a picnic in nature on a crisp autumn day in Maryland. 

If the weather is warm enough, consider hitting the water on a rented canoe or kayak. Monarch butterflies are frequently spotted in the area throughout the season. You can find them darting from one wildflower to the next! 

This is a great spot to take family photos and capture the wildlife to look back on once you get home! 

Summary of the Best Places to See Fall Foliage in Maryland 

The photo featured at the top of this post is © nathaniel gonzales/Shutterstock.com