Falling temperatures, blowing snow and dangerous travel conditions

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You're out of luck if you head to northwestern Minnesota this weekend to go leaf peeping — it's already past peak. 

Instead, head to the North Shore, where fall colors are in their prime right now. You can also enjoy the red, orange and yellow in a pocket of southwestern Minnesota. 

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 is based on observations from all 75 of Minnesota's state parks and recreation areas. Here are the top picks this week:

: You can't go wrong anywhere you go in this park. The DNR says you'll see color everywhere, but recommends Beaver Pond Trail and Loon, Wolf and Shumway lakes. Keep an eye on the wildlife, too — a lot of eagles have been spotted in the area along with trumpeter swans. 

: The hike into Tettegouche Camp from the Lax Lake Road parking area may be the best spot for fall colors — you'll walk through tunnels of peaking maples, oaks, basswoods and yellow birches. Don't wait too long, though. Heavy winds and rain are expected to strip the trees quickly of leaves. 

: Trees aren't providing the only color here. Sunflowers, asters and goldenrods are in full bloom on the prairies. 

Meanwhile, the Twin Cities and southern Minnesota continue run behind schedule, at least 

 At this time last fall, most of the state was either past or at peak.

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Cathy Wurzer

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The North Shore is the place to be this weekend for prime leaf peeping.

Where to see fall colors this weekend

Go Deeper.

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