The forecast

Last update: September 6, 2008 - 1:01 PM

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FALL FOLIAGE 411

The websites and telephone numbers listed below provide updates on when trees around the region will be at their peak.

Iowa: 1-515-233-4110 (activated on Sept. 22); www.traveliowa.com.

Minnesota: 1-888-646-6367; www.mndnr.gov (foliage map is updated every Thursday and the site includes "hot picks" that will highlight which state parks have the best colors).

North Dakota: 1-800-435-5663; www.ndtourism.com.

South Dakota: 1-800-952-3625, ask to speak to an outdoor representative; www.travelsd.com (click on "Things To Do" and go to "fall foliage" link).

Wisconsin: 1-800-432-8747; www.travelwisconsin.com (to receive weekly e-mail updates, click on the "Email Subscriptions" link and choose the "Fall Color Report").

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Now that the aspens in Voyageurs National Park are turning yellow, the rest of the state's trees will be blushing soon; colors in northern Minnesota usually peak the third week in September and work their way south.

As long as we get the classic fall combination of warm days and cool nights, the statewide forecast for fiery reds, yellows and oranges looks promising, said Jana Albers, forest health specialist with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. The only exception could be the Twin Cities metro area, where drought conditions could produce more muted auburns, tans and beiges.

Albers' advice for seeking out the showiest foliage is simple: "Head for the hills," she said. That's because those areas tend to have more maples, which are known for their cayenne-colored leaves. She recommended the Detroit Lakes area, Park Rapids and Itasca State Park as dependable bets for gorgeous viewing.

ELIZABETH LARSEN

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