Leaves on the Loose!

As the crisp autumn air rolls into Park City, the landscape begins to shift from green to a kaleidoscope of gold, orange, and red. But why do leaves change color in the fall?

During spring and summer, leaves are green thanks to a pigment called chlorophyll, which helps trees turn sunlight into food —aka photosynthesis! As days grow shorter and temperatures drop, trees prepare for winter by slowing down their food-making process. Chlorophyll fades, revealing the hidden pigments underneath, such as carotenoids (yellow and orange) and anthocyanins (red and purple). This natural shift creates the spectacular fall show we look forward to each year.

This colorful transformation isn’t just beautiful—it’s the perfect invitation to get outside and explore. One of the best ways to enjoy the season is with an activity that gets the whole family involved — go on a leaf scavenger hunt!

Leaf Scavenger Hunt

Try this family-friendly leaf scavenger hunt around your neighborhood, a local trail, or even in your backyard. All you need is a bag or basket for collecting—and your curiosity! We recommend looking for leaves that have already fallen to the ground. Not only does this help protect the trees and living plants, but fallen leaves often showcase the most dramatic colors, textures, and shapes!

Find a leaf that is:

• Bright red
• Larger than your hand
• Shaped like a heart
• Yellow
• Smaller than a coin
• Brown
• Speckled or multicolored
• Still green

Bonus activity! After the hunt, lay out your leaves and compare them. What observations can you make?  Which is the biggest? The brightest? Try making a leaf collage or nature journal entry about your findings! 

Get outside, slow down, and enjoy this short, colorful moment in Park City’s natural calendar. Because just like the leaves, the season is always changing, and that’s part of the magic. 

Other Naturalist News

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