Fall colors shine in Eastern Kentucky. Here’s a view of Mother Nature at her autumn best

Oranges, reds and yellows are painting the hillsides and mountaintops of Eastern Kentucky in brilliant hues as fall envelops the Commonwealth.

Nearly 50 percent of Kentucky’s land area — about 12 million acres — is forested, and around 175 tree species grow wild in the state, according to the Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet.

While you can see autumn colors throughout the state, especially at Kentucky State Parks, the Appalachian Region of Eastern Kentucky is particularly picturesque.

Leaves at higher elevations usually begin turning in September before the kaleidoscope of colors overtakes trees at lower elevations through October and early November, according to the Tourism Cabinet.

This story was originally published November 11, 2021 at 6:00 AM.