A classic day for fall colors in Door County

FISH CREEK - High winds and leaves falling marked a day of transition in Northeast Wisconsin. When it comes to fall colors, time may be running out for people to take it all in.
     
At Peninsula State Park in Fish Creek, it's 108 steps to the top of Eagle Tower.

For Judy Moore and her husband, the trek to the top was worth the climb.

"A little windy, making me a little bit nervous. The colors are beautiful," said Judy Moore, McHenry, Illinois.

The view from the top of the tower was a prime spot to take in the colors of the season.

"Golds, and greens, and reds, the rusts you name it. It looks like a painting," said Moore.

• Photos: Fall colors in Northeast Wisconsin
• Click here for the state Fall Color Report

On the ground, Todd and Gina Blaser are celebrating their ninth wedding anniversary with a bike ride through the park.

"It's a good way to get in the middle of the woods and trees, and really see the leaves first hand," said Todd Blaser, Manitowoc.

The fall colors season can turn into into some big dollars. Tourism officials say September and October account for 25-30% of their annual business.

"When the colors are at their peak, that's when a lot of folks want to be up here. So the fall is definitely an impact season for us," said Jon Jarosh, Door County Visitor Bureau.

"Isn't that tree beautiful? You got to get a shot of that tree, it's gorgeous," said Cheryl LaFargue, Alexandria, Louisiana.

Cheryl and Walter LaFargue are from Louisiana. They say their cross country trip would not be complete without a trip to Door County.

"They're beautiful. Of course, leaves turn everywhere in the U.S. But the landscape here is just absolutely beautiful. With the little hills and all, you can see so much," said LaFargue.

As the greens of summer surrender to the foliage of the fall, people can reflect on what will soon be gone.

"This is one of the best places to go for fall colors, I think. It's always my favorite time of year," said Gina Blaser, Manitowoc.

"It really just kind of creates a magical atmosphere for people that they can't get in a lot of spots in the Midwest," said Jarosh.