Fall colors starting to show across the North Shore

Fall colors are starting to pop across Cook County, making a weekend spectacle for outdoor lovers across the region.

The DNR lists much of Cook County and a portion of Lake County as 25-50% peak with their Fall Color Finder, but areas throughout the county are turning quickly.

Courtesy of DNR

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, Cascade River State Park, Gooseberry Falls State Park, and Judge C.R. Magney State Park are all listed at 25-50% colors, with grasses and flowers listed even closer to peak.

WTIP’s Chuck Olsen caught some of the early colors at the 2026 Fall Gala earlier this week at Lusten Mountains. WTIP’s Kalli Hawkins captured the first signs of fall earlier this week. Photos are below.

Josh Hinke September 26, 2026