Field notes · 2026 estimate
When to see peak color at Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway
Peak fall color is predicted around October 29. Plan for the strongest viewing window from October 24 to November 3.
The prediction comes from 14 years of fall color records at this spot, checked against what observers on the ground saw. Where state foliage spotters report peak (New York, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Missouri), it has landed inside our ±5-day window about two years in three. An unusual summer or autumn can still move it further. Explore fall color around Helen and across Georgia.
That is 5 days later than usual (October 25): the six weeks to October 13 ran 4.6°F warmer than the 2001–2025 average, and a warmer run before peak delays the color. This will settle about ten days before peak, as the weather comes in.
Nearby locales
Other places to see color near Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway
Under 30 minutes
1 to 2 hours
- Cherokee38 mi · 1 hr 3 minNorth CarolinaPeak: Oct 28Status: Moderate color
- Amicalola Falls State Park49 mi · 1 hr 17 minPeak: Nov 4Status: Early color
- Tallulah Gorge State Park55 mi · 1 hr 22 minPeak: Nov 3Status: Early color
- Black Rock Mountain State Park44 mi · 1 hr 24 minPeak: Oct 28Status: Early color
- Gibbs Gardens60 mi · 1 hr 40 minPeak: Nov 1Status: Moderate color