MOLINE, Ill — That fall-like feeling is in the air! The sun is setting a little sooner, and nights are getting a bit more crisp. Soon, we'll be in awe as we gaze upon one of Mother Nature's most generous displays, fall color! We're fortunate to live in a region where you don't need to travel far to see some spectacular views. All the information you need to plan your adventure, including a fall color forecast that is updated weekly, can be found below. Don't forget to also check out the latest forecast from the Storm Track 8 Weather Impact Team before you head out the door. Enjoy, and safe travels!
Fall Color Right Now
This map is updated three times per week. Data courtesy of explorefall.com
Fall Color Forecast
This forecast is also updated three times per week. Data courtesy of explorefall.com
WHERE TO FIND THE BEST VIEWS
We've compiled a list of the best places across the area to appreciate the flaming fall leaves.
- Wildcat Den State Park: Located at 1884 Wildcat Den Road in Muscatine, this park's trails, according to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, offer views of sandstone bluffs and natural formations like "Steamboat Rock" and "Devil's Punch Bowl" that are best observed surrounded by the fall colors.
- Augustana Slough: Located on the Augustana College campus in Rock Island, the slough is a swampy home for ducks and turtles, but it also gives great views of the fall foliage to those who don't live among the marsh.
- Black Hawk State Historic Site and Park: Located at 1510 46th Ave. in Rock Island, the 208-acre park borders the Rock River. Multiple trail options weave throughout the park.
- Devils Glen Park: Located at 1101 Devils Glen Road in Bettendorf, this park provides serene views of the changing oak trees along Duck Creek.
- Hennepin Canal from Colona to Tiskiliwa, Illinois: Walking paths and bike paths along this several-mile stretch give you great access to wooded areas where lots of color can be found.
Why do leaves change color?
During warmer months, leaves produce chlorophyll to help plants create energy from light, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Later in the year, as days get shorter and nights become longer, trees prepare for winter by blocking flow to and from a leaf's stem, which then causes the chlorophyll to stop replenishing and the leaf's green color to fade. According to NOAA, a leaf's true pigments emerge as the green fades.
Lack of chlorophyll from too little or too much moisture, root damage, or disease can cause premature leaf color changes. In the Quad Cities area, we will likely see leaves change color early, especially in the north where there have been drier conditions.
How will the current weather pattern impact color this year?
Weather past and present plays a huge role in how vibrant and widespread the fall color will be. Ideally, we would like to see a warm, wet spring season followed by your typical summertime heat and occasional rounds of rain. Finally, for the fall, we need several sunny, warm days and cool, crisp fall nights.
The current forecast peak for fall colors in the Quad Cities region is between October 21-29th.
Drought can have quite an impact on both the intensity and timing of fall color displays. Thankfully, drought hasn't been much of a concern lately as we've kept up with rainfall throughout the summer months. This will ensure a nice, even display of color that will remain on track to peak in mid to late October.
What do the different colors mean?
From vibrant yellows to deep reds, each color involves a specific chemical reaction happening within the leaves. Here are the different elements involved in the colors you'll see this fall.
Don't forget to send us your fall photos!
While you are out and about soaking in all those beautiful colors, snap a picture and send it our way using the WQAD News 8 app! We'll be featuring your fall photos all throughout the end of September and the beginning of October on News 8.