I’m a New Englander, so around this time every year I become obsessed with cool weather, blue skies, colorful foliage, and apple cider done right . Thankfully we don’t have to worry much about the weather, and while I still haven’t found that perfect cider out here, I can at least help with the foliage.

Here in Southern California, turning leaves can be found in the riparian canyons a bit further in the season – places like Santa Anita and Icehouse Canyons are often good places to look in mid-October. There are a few picturesque aspen groves near Big Bear, too, but those of us really looking for fall colors will want to keep an eye on California Fall Color .

The annual site has fired up for the season, and is constantly updating with foliage reports from the Eastern Sierras. The site also just featured some tips for leaf-peepers with canine companions , too.

Do you have a favorite local spot for leaf-peeping? Or are you content to just watch the Facebook feeds of your east coast relatives?

image by Mizzy Pacheco .