This fall hasn’t been the most spectacular display of color leaves blanketing the entire landscape in Minnesota this year. There are still some pockets of amazingly vibrant leaves to take in on a sunny, autumn afternoon. At least until the rain and wind separate them from their branches and they become a part of the forest floor.

Everything in the forest is preparing for the winter, including this squirrel taking time to eat before continuing to find food to store. In many areas the leaves didn’t really turn colors much. They just browned up or fell from the trees as there has been a lot of rain during the summer and fall so far with relatively warm temperatures. It’s almost as if the trees decided they’ve grown enough this year and determined it time for winter and shed their leaves.

Fortunately there were still a few areas where the trees headed into all of their autumn glory provided beautiful red, orange, and yellow colors to enjoy. It may take a little exploring to find these areas but the sights are worth the effort but they only last a few days before wind and rain erase the colors from the trees.

These pockets of fall colors on a nice, sunny day help distract from the realization of soon approaching snowflakes. At least for a short time. It won’t be long now so enjoying the suns warmth is a nice treat while viewing sights like this bright gold Tamarack tree.

Even the lakes, ponds, and rivers bask in autumn colors as the leaves continue on their fall journey. While out photographing vibrant fall colors I attempted to leave the forest many times but kept getting delayed by another beautiful fall scene requiring a reach for my camera in an attempt to capture these amazing colors.