AAA Predicts 'Normal' Fall Color Season For Michigan

DEARBORN, Mich., Sept. 7 -- Based on information provided by the National Weather Service, AAA predicts a "normal" fall color season for Michigan. And with gas prices falling along with the leaves, it is anticipated that more than 1 million travelers will strike out in search of the state's awesome color display.

A wet spring and summer across much of the Lower Peninsula points to a promising color season between mid-September, when the show usually begins in the north, and late-October, when it ends in Southern Michigan.

The National Weather Service projects below average precipitation across much of the Lower Peninsula this fall, which means more sun to help generate peak color. Above average temperatures are forecast for the Upper Peninsula and Northern Lower Peninsula. Combined with cool evening temps, this could also help generate good color.

In Michigan, fall travelers can count on good yellows in the aspens and cottonwoods. But favorable weather is needed to bring out the reds in the maples, sumac and Northern red oak to provide a vivid color season.

Michigan is blessed with vibrant natural color, and plenty of ways to see it. There are more than 18.6 million acres of forested land, two national shorelines, nearly 100 state parks and recreation areas, hundreds of local and regional parks, three national forests and state forests in both peninsulas.

Travelers can enjoy the season on leisurely canoe floats down rivers, pedaling mountain bikes, on horseback, or during a traditional weekend drive to see Michigan's more than 160 waterfalls.

Many accent their fall color tour with a stop at one of the state's many cider mills, fall festivals or world-class wineries. When planning trips, AAA cautions motorists to remember that shoreline areas along the Great Lakes tend to have delayed peak color compared with inland forests due to lake-effect heat.

Valleys, hilltops and roadways often turn earlier because they are more likely to see cooler temperatures.

Beginning September 15, fall color watchers looking for the best viewing opportunities can call Travel Michigan at (888) 78-GREAT (784-7328) for color updates provided by AAA Michigan each Wednesday through October. Updates also will be posted at http://aaa.com/ (enter ZIP code, click ABOUT AAA tab), or visit http://www.michigan.org/ .

Stay alert on your fall color drive -- especially for deer and other wildlife. Watch for slower-moving traffic. Pull well off the road to see color or take photos, or to let faster moving traffic pass. Switch drivers often to avoid fatigue and so everyone on board can see the show. Stop at scenic turnouts frequently to rest, and enjoy the view. Wear safety belts and avoid alcohol.

AAA Michigan offers automotive, travel, insurance and financial services to more than 1.6 million members in Michigan. It is part of The Auto Club Group (ACG), the largest affiliation of AAA clubs in the Midwest, with approximately 4.1 million members in eight states. ACG belongs to the national AAA federation, a not-for-profit organization with more than 49 million members in the United States and Canada.

NOTE TO EDITORS: AAA's weekly Wednesday fall color survey will begin Sept. 13 and continue through October.