US Forest Service - Caring for the land and serving people

United States Department of Agriculture

National Forests & Grasslands: Go where the WILD COLORS are.

Welcome the Fall Colors 2017 webpage! This autumn, experience the natural beauty of America’s Backyard. This year, we spotlight America’s National Grasslands in fall. There are 20 National Grasslands and l National Tallgrass Prairie among the 193 million acres of National Forests and Grasslands. Explore and enjoy as we take you on a journey through some of our nation’s most treasured landscapes in their brightest splendor at this very special time of year.

Splendor in the Grasslands. Explore an Interactive map plus virtual tour of the flora and fauna of the grasslands in fall!

National Forest and Grasslands Photo Challenge, From October 1 to October 31. Capture the beauty of America's backyard. Tag Photos with #forestfallcolors2017

What to see

Fothergilla leaves make the transition from green to red in the National Herb Garden at the U.S. National Arboretum. (Photo credit U.S. National Arboretum)

Where to see it

Fall foliage along a scenic route on the Superior National forest. USDA photo.

Learn about it

Fall Colors Resources – Lots of info on trees.
Arbor Day Foundation – Make your world greener.
Untamed Science – Learn about nature the fun way.
U.S. National Arboretum – A natural treasure in Washington, D.C.
Recreation.gov - Make reservations and plan your outdoors trip.
Outdoor Safety - A useful guide to a safe outdoors.
Learn to pack a survival pack – Useful info when out in the great outdoors.

Kids, Science and Stories

Kids having fun - Link to Fall Colors Kids Area

Scientist seeing through a microscope - Fall Colors Science Area

Newspaper and Reading Glasses - Link to Fall Colors Story area