Carson Valley is starting to see red as the maples turn their eye-catching scarlet color. Overall, the valley is still in the Patchy range (20%) moving over into the Getting Better stage. But the maples that are turning are near peak.
Ash trees are also starting to turn yellow throughout the valley.
Although it’s not quite time to see peak fall color in Carson Valley, there’s still enough color to make it a pretty drive. A scenic country drive ambles along Highway 88 with Job’s Peak as a backdrop.
Hope Valley Fall Color Is Just Starting
From Carson Valley, follow Highway 88 up into the mountains and Hope Valley, California, where you’ll find a bit of golden color on the trail/road next to Desolation Hotel and across the highway from the resort. These areas seem to be moving faster than normal, and might even put on a show beginning in late September. Then again maybe the warm weather we’ve had this week will slow things down.
You can also venture up to Monitor Pass, which californiafallcolor.com reports is Patchy, but still boasts “a mosaic of colors.” To reach Monitor Pass from Highway 88, at Woodfords, turn left on Highway 89 and follow it through Markleeville. Take a left where the road splits off of Highway 4.
Carson Valley is located about an hour south of Reno and a half hour south of Carson City.
Carson Valley Fall Color Report
Maples – Patchy (20%), but there are a number of trees that are near peak.
Cottonwoods – Still green with an occasional patch of yellow here and there.
Ash Trees – Patchy (20%)
Hope Valley (near Desolation Hotel) – Getting Better (30%)
Find Dozens of Other Nevada Autumn Foliage Hot Spots
Where are the best places to see fall color in Nevada? Use our Nevada Fall Color Map to find out. In many areas, color is going to be peaking over the next couple of weeks, so buy your map now so you’re prepared.
Thanks, Kim. Always appreciate your fall reports. Joy
Thanks, Joy. I hope you’re having a great fall and are doing well.