Wind is a fall foliator’s worst enemy.
Luckily, this weekend’s windstorm left some color in the Carson Valley in the towns of Minden, Gardnerville, and Genoa. Some of the leaves did blow off the trees and other color faded, but enough remains for anyone looking for good photos or just a pleasant fall color drive.
I was out and about yesterday, on Sunday, October 26 after the first round of wind and found the cottonwoods looking lovely. Even though the maples are past peak, another set of trees were coloring the valley red. Some of these might be ornamental pears.
On Sunday, after I ventured out, a second round of wind hit. I drove through part of the valley today to see what survived. I was happy to see that the wind did not strip every tree. Some of the trees I took photos of yesterday have held on to their color.
Some cottonwoods are At Peak and a good number are slightly Past Peak, but some trees in the town of Genoa and at other parts of the Carson Valley are still green, suggesting we might have a second burst of color.
Carson Valley Fall Color Update October 27, 2025
Cottonwoods – Some trees are At Peak and looking lovely, while others are past their prime.
Maples – Past Peak
Other Trees (Ornamental Pears?) – At Peak (90%), but some are fading.
Great pictures! Good to know there’s color about yet. . Thank you for the journey.
Thanks, Genevieve!