Final Maine Fall Foliage Update

October 19, 2005
Maine Foliage Report
Maine Department of Conservation

"Foliage Color Still Spectacular in Southern, Coastal Maine"

AUGUSTA, Maine - Foliage is at or near peak color throughout southernand coastal Maine according to the Department of Conservation's (DOC) final fall foliage report for 2005. With partly sunny and dry weather predicted this weekend for most of the southern half of the state, it should be the perfect time for a final trip to see Maine's fall beauty. Forest and park rangers are reporting peak leaf color, ranging from 85to 100 percent, in the foliage tracking zones covering the entire Maine coastline from Kittery to Eastport. Salt marshes and protected bays surrounded by colorful foliage are particularly picturesque this time of year. Many coastal towns offer waterside walking paths, scenic hiking trails in nature preserves and state parks, and biking trails for those who choose to be active while viewing the vibrant leaves. Peak color is also covering the Kennebec River region including the cities of Augusta and Waterville, and the Penobscot River region surrounding the city of Bangor. A drive north along Route 201 from Topsham to Augusta and on to Waterville reveals spectacular foliage set amongst lush green fields, lakes and the Kennebec River. Visitors don't have to trek to the forest to see Maine's attractive foliage. Two Lights State Park in Cape Elizabeth, near Portland; and Peacock Beach State Park in Richmond, south of Augusta, are two places where people can enjoy the color of the leaves without traveling deep into the woods. Those who prefer to be closer to nature can take the short hike up the summit trail at Bradbury Mountain State Park or tackle the trails on Mt. Battie or Mt. Megunticook at Camden Hills State Park.

For updated reports and information, call the Maine foliage hotline at 1-888-MAINE-45. Maine's Department of Conservation releases weekly foliage reports each year during foliage season (mid-September through mid-October). ForestRangers assess the amount of color change and leaf drop when they are onassignment in the field. These reports represent the official word on foliage conditions in the state of Maine and are provided to the public and media.Visit
www.MaineFoliage.com for more information about Maine foliage including photos, trip planning tips, kids' pages, and more!"

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