Fall in the PNW: Where to Go Leaf Peeping + a MAP!
Fall is in full swing in the Pacific Northwest, and if you’re not out there enjoying the vibrant colors yet, what are you waiting for?
This is the season when our forests and parks explode with reds, oranges, and yellows, and it’s simply magical.
Whether hiking, driving, or just strolling through a local park, here’s what you need to know about catching those peak fall vibes in the PNW.
Table of Contents
When and Where to Catch Peak Fall Colors
Fall foliage is all about timing. In higher elevations like Mt. Hood, Mt. Rainier, or the North Cascades, the colors are already near peak in early October, but you still have time in lower areas!
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Around Portland, the Willamette Valley, and coastal regions, you’ll want to plan your leaf-peeping for the last week or two of October into early November.
The cooler temps and shorter days are the perfect recipe for turning the maples, sweet gums, and ash trees into a rainbow of fall color.
Top Hikes for Fall Foliage
- Silver Falls State Park – Just an hour south of Portland, Silver Falls is perfect for fall hiking. The famous Trail of Ten Falls is surrounded by big leaf maples and vine maples that explode in yellow and orange during the fall.
- Columbia River Gorge – Head east from Portland for breathtaking hikes like Multhnomah Falls or Wahkeena Falls. The mix of evergreens and maples makes for a stunning contrast against the waterfalls.
- Mount Hood Scenic Loop – If you’re up for a drive, this is a fantastic day trip from Portland. Stop at Trillium Lake for some reflection shots of the fall colors around the lake, with Mt. Hood in the background.
- Washington Fall Hikes – We have a list of our fav fall hikes in Washington—check it out!
Best Scenic Drives for Leaf Peeping
- McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway – This route takes you through some of Oregon’s most beautiful mountain landscapes, where you’ll see fiery reds and yellows from vine maples and aspens.
- Hood River Valley – Explore the Fruit Loop around Hood River. Not only will you see vibrant fall foliage, but you can stop at orchards for fresh apples and cider.
- Mount Rainier’s Chinook Scenic Byway – Head to Washington and take this stunning route around Mount Rainier. The drive offers jaw-dropping views of the mountain with beautiful fall colors from the surrounding forests, particularly the vine maples and alpine meadows.
READ MORE: Oregon Road Trip Guide
Why the PNW is a Fall Wonderland
Maples, ash trees, and even sweet gum trees show off their fall coats here in the PNW.
Their yellow, orange, and red leaves stand out against the deep green of our evergreens, creating a stunning contrast that’s hard to beat.
The cooler temperatures also make hiking more enjoyable, so grab your cozy sweater, a pumpkin spice latte (if that’s your thing), and hit the trails!
Check out our Seattle and Portland guides!
PNW Fall Map
This site here is really fun to play with to see where fall foliage is right now!
Don’t Miss Out on Fall in PNW
The leaves won’t stick around forever, so don’t wait. Whether you’re up for a challenging hike or a scenic drive, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you.
Get out there and enjoy the best of fall before the snow starts rolling in!
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