As autumn settles in, the campus of The University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee, transforms into a breathtaking spectacle of color. Spread across over 13,000 acres on the Cumberland Plateau, this expansive landscape, known as the Domain, becomes a haven for nature lovers and students alike. The area is threaded with hiking trails that wind through dense deciduous forests, which during the fall, are set ablaze with vibrant hues. The oaks begin to take on a yellow hue, reminiscent of the pages of an aging book, while the maples burst forth in brilliant shades of crimson. Meanwhile, the ginkgo trees seem to almost glow with their radiant display.
Every year, the fall foliage presents a slightly different show, as the trees don their autumn colors in varying patterns—sometimes in isolated patches, other times in sweeping waves that cascade southward across the plateau. This dynamic transition can be observed throughout the Domain, where each species of tree contributes its own unique shade to the seasonal tapestry. “On campus, the colors can vary significantly from year to year,” notes Smith, a local expert on the area’s flora. Among the most striking trees are the black gums, red maples, and sugar maples, which seem to take center stage during the fall. Smith explains, “As environmental conditions shift and the chlorophyll in the leaves breaks down, other pigments emerge. The green fades away, allowing the reds and yellows to dominate the landscape.”
The natural beauty of Sewanee’s campus is not just a seasonal spectacle; it is also a living testament to the diversity of plant life. In 2013, the campus earned the designation of Tennessee Certified Arboretum by the Tennessee Urban Forestry Council. This recognition highlights the presence of 120 different species of trees and over 30 varieties of shrubs, each identified by plaques that display both their botanical and common names. Among these is the famous “moon tree,” a sycamore grown from a seed that journeyed into space, and pines planted in Manigault Park to commemorate a Presidential visit in 1911.
The trees themselves are more than just a visual feast; they tell a story of the region’s natural history and the university’s commitment to preserving it. As you walk through the campus, each tree offers a glimpse into the past and the environmental processes that shape the present. The oaks, maples, and ginkgoes are not just decorative elements; they are part of a living laboratory where students and visitors can learn about the intricate relationships between climate, soil, and plant life.
In Sewanee, the arrival of fall is not just a change of season but a reminder of the deep connection between the land and the people who inhabit it. The vibrant colors that blanket the campus each year are a testament to the enduring beauty of the natural world and the importance of conserving it for future generations. Whether you’re hiking along the trails or simply taking in the view, the autumnal transformation of Sewanee’s campus is a sight to behold, offering both a visual treat and a lesson in the wonders of nature.
