Crisp mornings and cooler evenings are a welcome break from the higher temps that still have us sweating through the late afternoon hours.
And while summer and fall keep up their tug o’ war (Spoiler Alert: autumn will in the end … we think), western Nevada County awaits the return of rain to soak the landscape, put an end to fire season and set the stage for winter and the holidays.
But while we await that rain — 38% chance of precipitation on Oct. 23, fingers crossed — Mother Nature is already working on another reason to welcome the season.
Our local leaves on trees are about to explode into a kaleidoscope of fall colors, an added bonus for homebuyers (and their agents) touring homes in town over the next few weeks.
Of course, the seasonal change of colors is enjoyed all across the world, but western county’s annual burst of bright orange, yellow and red is really something to behold.
And thanks to a map created by our joint chambers of commerce, visitors and locals alike can enjoy a quick tour of some the area’s most stunning trees within a short walk, ride or drive.
“The best colors are scattered throughout both towns. Grass Valley is especially pretty from higher vista points,” the chambers state. “Nevada City colors are centered in a smaller area and may be more easily enjoyed by foot or bicycle. Among the most popular sites are Nevada Street in Nevada City and along Neal Street in Grass Valley.
Take a look at The Fall Colors of Nevada City & Grass Valley before heading out and about, adding some color to your morning walk or commute.
And while you’re in town, the 27th annual Open Studios free art tour, sponsored by the Center for the Arts, is another local tradition that brings us together to enjoy the colorful creations of local artists throughout the community.
The 2022 version of the Open Studios tour wraps up this weekend, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, hosted by participating artists in their studios and at sites all about town.
For more information, and for a map of the studios, visit https://thecenterforthearts.org/open-studios/ for a full description of the event, just another example of what makes western Nevada County such a wonderful place to live, work and play!
For an even wider array of fun things to do, and great events to attend, check out the GoNevadaCounty.com community calendar or see this each Thursday’s Prospector entertainment magazine published by the TheUnion.com.