ASHLAND, Wis. – Fall colors are slowly but surely popping up around Wisconsin.

Up in the Northwoods, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources said fall foliage is already on display. 

"The vibrant splashes of red we’re seeing now in the Northwoods are primarily red maples that have been stressed by high water tables in lowland areas," forest silviculturist/ecologist with the DNR Division of forestry Colleen Matula said. "The colors in upland forests are at about 10 percent of their fall colors, so the annual color showcase is just beginning."

Peak fall color usually occurs in far northern Wisconsin during the last week of September and the first week of October, with peak color generally occurring during mid-October in central Wisconsin and during the latter half of October in southern Wisconsin.

Additionally, Travel Wisconsin’s Fall Color Report takes a closer look at when colored leaves start popping up more around the Badger state. The map actively updates the 2020 predictions across the 72 counties from 100 fall color reporters.

Per the map, Tomahawk, Merrill, and Barron counties, as well as Chippewa Falls, are already at around 35-40% their peaks for the season. More southern-Wisconsin areas like Milwaukee and Madison are not expected to see fall foliage for another few weeks.

"Fall color predictions by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) are based on mathematical algorithms that factor in historical leaf peak, temperatures, precipitation, leaf volume, health, and day length," Matula said. "The intensity of Wisconsin's fall color season is dependent on the weather the state receives during September and October. To have the most brilliant and vibrant fall color display, a series of fall days filled with bright sunshine and cool, but frost-free evenings are required."

The timing of the color change varies.

Those looking for some outdoor activities amid the ongoing pandemic can click here to find a state forest, park recreation area, or trail.