Photos: Tree-lined streams are a good place to see fall color, as are rocky bluffs and hilly woodlands. Fallen leaves briefly present interesting colors and patterns, too, in mid- to late-October’s peak color season.

Virginia creeper vines are scarlet in the treetops. Yellow is appearing in leaves on hackberry and pawpaw trees. Peak fall color is on the way, and the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) urges people to head outdoors and enjoy autumn’s sensory pleasures.

The Missouri Department of Conservation says a drive on country roads with forests or open woodlands is a good option for seeing color. Bluff areas with varied tree species are often colorful, such as the Missouri River bluffs. Many MDC conservation areas have service roads or marked hiking trails open for an autumn stroll. Color is found in cities, too. Often older residential neighborhoods have large trees that produce spectacular color.

Nature has variety. An area receiving plentiful rain through summer may have more vibrant color than a dry or drought-stricken area, but not always. Too much moisture can trigger leaf diseases, too. The Kansas City area had a dry June, a wet July, then a dry September. Some trees dropped leaves early due to dry conditions. Yet plenty of trees still have healthy leaves turning colors or staying green until peak color time in mid- to late-October. Some trees wait till early November to get showy, depending on weather.

MDC provides updated reports on the progress of fall color changes throughout Missouri, including for the Kansas City and northwest regions, click here.