Leaves around the northern U.S. are starting to turn orange, yellow and red, inspiring legions of leaf lovers to hop in their cars and travel to the countryside for the best look at fall’s

But this year, some of the most colorful displays could be in the Midwest. AccuWeather, the commercial forecasting service, said in early September that it expects especially vibrant foliage in states such as Michigan and Illinois.

Fall colors aren't just pleasing to the eyes, they're also a huge moneymaker for local economies. Vermont's Agency of Commerce and Community Development estimates that leaf peeping generates around $600 million and constitutes upwards of 20% of the state's total annual tourism economic activity each year.

Leaf peeping — the act of traveling to witness nature’s annual kaleidoscope — contributes billions of dollars to the economy, especially in New England.

Leaf peeping — the act of traveling to witness nature's annual kaleidoscope — contributes billions of dollars to the economy

Leaf peeping — the act of traveling to witness nature’s annual kaleidoscope — contributes billions of dollars to the economy, especially in New England and New York.