7 Things to Do in Washington in the Fall

Washington in the fall is a sight to behold. As the leaves change color, the state becomes a canvas of reds, oranges, and yellows.

Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds make it the perfect time to explore the state’s beauty with the added benefit of fewer crowds.

These are our favorite things to do in Washington in the fall.

Washington in Fall

Fall in Washington typically features mild temperatures from the 50s to 60s, with crisp mornings and cool evenings.

Depending on where you are in the state, you can expect some rain and chilly weather, so it’s wise to bring layers and waterproof gear.

If you want to see the best fall foliage, you’ll want to come in October.

1. Go Hiking

Fall is a fantastic time to hit the trails and enjoy the autumn colors. The cooler temperatures make hiking more comfortable, with fewer people on the trails and, of course, the fiery foliage that adds to the landscapes!

These are our favorite hikes in Washington in the fall.

• Chain Lakes Loop: This 8-mile loop offers breathtaking views of alpine lakes and Mount Baker.
• Naches Peak Loop Trail: A 3-mile loop offering panoramic views of Mount Rainier and vibrant autumn colors.
• Lake Valhalla Trail: A moderate 7-mile hike to a placid alpine lake surrounded by peaks and huckleberry bushes.
• Skyline Loop Trail: A 6-mile loop in Mount Rainier National Park with some of the best views of the mountain.
• Mount Storm King Hike: This 5-mile hike offers panoramic views of Lake Crescent.

READ MORE: 9 INSANE Fall Hikes in Washington

2. Fall Festivals

Washington comes alive in the fall with various festivals celebrating the season.

From harvest festivals to beer fests—there will probably be a festival happening while you visit! These events are perfect for enjoying local food, music, and having some fun.

• Hood River Valley Harvest Fest: Celebrate the harvest season with local produce, crafts, and entertainment.
• Great Pumpkin Beer Fest: Sample pumpkin beers from local breweries and enjoy festive activities.
• Seattle International Film Festival: Catch some of the best independent films from around the world.
• Leavenworth Oktoberfest: Experience Bavarian culture with music, food, and of course, beer.

Check out more events in Washington in fall.

3. Chase The Fall Colors

The fall colors in Washington are nothing short of spectacular. Some of the best in the country.

The state’s landscapes offer countless spots to see the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows!

Here are our favorite spots to see the firey fall displayed around the state.

• Columbia River Gorge: Witness vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows against the dramatic gorge backdrop with waterfalls to boot!
• Mount Rainier National Park: Enjoy colorful foliage with the majestic Mount Rainier as your backdrop.
• Washington Park Arboretum in Seattle: A haven for fall foliage with numerous trails and gardens.
• Leavenworth: A charming Bavarian village that transforms into a fall wonderland.

4. Cozy Up in a Yurt or Cabin

There’s nothing like snuggling up in a yurt or cabin during the fall season. While staying in one is great year-round, for us, staying in one in the fall just hits different!

Light up the fireplace, shimmy under a blanket, maybe even book a spot with a hot tub or a spot in the forest where you can make a bonfire!

These are our favorite options.

• Dreamlike Lakefront Cabin on Lake Sutherland – This studio cabin is perfect for a lakeside retreat. Enjoy stunning views and lakefront amenities, like two SUP boards and a kayak.
• Fishermen’s Hollow on the Bogachiel River – This riverfront spot has two cabins connected by covered decks and a breezeway. Enjoy the river views from the covered decks or around a campfire with an excellent location to explore Olympic National Park.
• Forested Cabin Near Seattle – This cozy cabin is just a short drive from the heart of Seattle. You can wake up to the sounds of birds and the tranquil forest.
• Cozy Oceanfront Cabin on Whidbey Island – This oceanfront cabin offers breathtaking views and a laid-back atmosphere with a deck steps from the rocky shores.
• North Fork Cabin Near Mount Baker – This cabin blends modern comfort with rustic charm. Perfect for year-round adventures, it’s just 30 minutes from the Mt. Baker Ski Area.

READ MORE: Cabins in Washington

5. Go Wine Tasting

Fall is the perfect time to explore Washington’s wine country, and it’s also a good way to keep warmer with the chillier air (two glasses of wine is like a blanket, no?!).

The harvest season brings a buzz of activity to the vineyards, and the cooler temperatures make for a pleasant experience. Visit the state’s renowned wine regions and sip on a few local wines.

• Walla Walla Valley: Home to over 120 wineries, offering a variety of tasting experiences.
• Woodinville Wine Country: Just outside of Seattle, this area boasts a concentration of tasting rooms and wineries.
• Yakima Valley: Known for its diverse grape varieties and charming tasting rooms.
• Columbia Gorge Wine Tasting: A scenic region offering both views and wines.
• Lake Chelan Wine Valley: Enjoy the picturesque lake views while sampling local wines.

6. Take a Scenic Drive

Washington’s scenic drives are particularly beautiful in the fall. The changing leaves add a splash of color to the already stunning landscapes. Not to mention the road will be a bit less crowded.

These drives are perfect for a relaxing day trip from Seattle or a weekend getaway.

• North Cascades Highway: A breathtaking route through rugged mountains and dense forests. Stretch those legs on the brightly colored trails of Maple Pass.
• Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway: A drive that offers dramatic views of the gorge and its waterfalls.
• Mount Rainier Loop: A scenic route around Mount Rainier with plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the views.
• Olympic Peninsula Loop: A diverse drive that includes coastal vistas, forests, and mountains.

7. Visit National Parks

Washington’s national parks are a must-visit in the fall. The parks are less crowded, and the cooler weather is perfect for exploring.

• Olympic National Park: A diverse park with rainforests, mountains, and coastline—Olympic is great pretty much year-round.
• Mount Rainier National Park: Known for its iconic peak and beautiful fall foliage, come see the park with fewer people and better weather.
• North Cascades National Park: Offers rugged beauty and some of the best fall colors in the state.

Enjoy visiting Washington in the fall!