NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – With the first official day of fall coming up, New Mexicans may start to see some fall colors. What can New Mexicans expect this year?
“We are starting to see some pops of color in the trees in the northern and western mountains of New Mexico, along with the Sacramento Mountains,” Chief Meteorologist Grant Tosterud said. “However, these colors are actually arriving as much as a week earlier than last year.”
This earlier onset could be a result of the hot summer we had in New Mexico. The state experienced the second hottest summer on record (with records going back to 1896). 2011 was the hottest summer on record in New Mexico, and that year leaves began changing around this same time.
When to see the best fall colors in New Mexico
Usually, late September and early October is when New Mexicans can expect to see peak colors. However, late October to early November is when the Albuquerque-metro area may start to see leaves change color in the bosque.
As of September 16, parts of northern New Mexico are already seeing low to moderate colors according to ExploreFall.com.
As of Sept. 16. Courtesy of ExploreFall.com
Why do leaves change color?
Chlorophyll is the compound that gives leaves their green color. It also helps plants by converting sunlight into food via photosynthesis. As the days get colder and shorter, chlorophyll in leaves breaks down and reveals the natural colors underneath like red, orange, and yellow. According to Harvard Forest, the colors are based on chemicals in the leaves like carotenoids and anthocyanin.
Where to Find Peak Fall Colors in New Mexico’s National Forests
Colors can change quickly in New Mexico. According to the Forest Service’s website, mid to late September head to the Carson National Forest. People can see the golden hues of cottonwoods. Peak is the end of September through mid-October. The Santa Fe National Forest will also have different shades of yellow leaves around that time.
The best forests to explore to find peak fall colors from October to early November are Cibola, Coronado, Gila, and Lincoln National Forests.