Cottonwoods don’t always get the fall color loving they deserve. People are focused on the red and orange aspens up in the high country. But when the fall foliage on the cottonwoods really gets going, it’s a magical sight, with entire groves of trees glowing a 24-karat gold in the sunlight.
Professional photographer Patrick Wilkes took a drive in the Carson Valley on October 30 to check out the progress of the cottonwoods. In most of the valley, he found them to be At Peak (75% to 100%). He found some lovely color and lighting by Genoa.
Today (October 31), he also took a walk above Mud Lake in Gardnerville and saw some cottonwood color down by the shore, although some of the trees there were past peak.
Maples Don’t Have Much Time
Around Carson Valley and Carson City, Patrick observed a lot of maples that were still red on October 30, but the high winds that blew through last night may have knocked off a lot of the leaves, especially since many maples have been at peak for a long time. The maple tree in our backyard is a case in point. Yesterday evening it still had a lot of red leaves but by this morning most of them are decorating the ground.
Best Days for a Fall Color Drive
The forecast calls for rain and snow from Friday night – Sunday morning, so your best bet for taking a fall color drive or hike is either on Friday, November 1 or Sunday afternoon, November 3 after the storm clears. Monday and Tuesday, so far, also look clear.
Carson Valley Fall Color Update 10-31-24
Cottonwoods – At Peak (75% to 100%). Some areas like Mud Lake are in the Fading stage (Past Peak but with some good color).
Maples – As of October 30 there was still color, but last night’s winds may have blown off the leaves.
Thank you so much for your fall color reporting!!.Most appreciated.
Daphne Scott
Gardnerville
You’re welcome, Daphne. Thanks for visiting our website. Have a great rest of your fall season.