As upstate resorts get ready to host their annual fall festivals with a wide range of activities, including the Peekn’ Peak resort in Chautauqua County, the colorful landscape of the trees changing color has become part of the draw.

“Be one with the environment and they love to get the TikToks and get the Instagram shot too, as well, so they really love doing that,” said Lance Rihn, executive director, hotel operations and sales, Scott Enterprises.

While the timing and intensity of the colors vary from season to season, the basic formula is the same.

Longtime foresters with the state Department of Environmental Conservation say as days get shorter and temperatures cooler, trees stop producing chlorophyll, causing the green to make way for a palette of red, orange and yellow.

“I think it’s really cool. To be able to see the different colors it really, the trees put on a spectacular, show you know, I think people should get out there and, you know, take a drive and see the different colors because it can really be magnificent,” said Jeff Brockelbank, supervising forester, New York State DEC.

“Attractions, hotels and tourism businesses will put on things that related to the fall theme like harvest, the flavors like apple, pumpkin, grape,” said Andy Nixon, president, CEO, Chautauqua County Visitors Bureau.

Colors that are not only something to look at, but also give people a reason to travel for events or scenic drives.

Tourism leaders say fall is the second busiest season behind summer, as the colors of fall generate long weekends and more green for the upstate economy.

“Using the fall foliage as a backdrop. Upstate is going to see a big influx of fall travel. It’s not going to be quite as big as the summer but it’s going to be substantial,” said Nixon.

So whether visitors are looking for a change of scenery by air or on the ground, the colorful landscape provides the perfect backdrop for fall’s tourism season.

“It’s great to experience it. I think it’s phenomenal. On a scale of one to 10, I’ll give it a 12. I think it’s something you can always count on. Mother Nature never lets us down,” said Brockelbank.

The state has also put out its annual fall foliage guide to help leaf peepers track the areas with the most vibrant colors.