Fall is finally here! Embrace the vibrant colors of the season with a road trip around the Pacific Northwest to see the allure of autumn up close. Here’s where to see fall leaves in Washington State this season.
[Originally published October 2022]
Hoh Rain Forest
While October through June is considered the rainy season in this northwest corner of Washington State, the Hoh Rain Forest is considered to be a prime destination year round—especially in the fall, when the sights and sounds of autumn come to life. With lush coats of moss suddenly sporting speckles of vibrant red, orange and yellow leaves, the rainforest is an exceptional spot to check out the unique variations of the season. Entrance fees start at $15. For more information, visit www.nps.gov.
Discovery Park
Discovery Park is a 534-acre park located on the shores of Puget Sound in the Magnolia neighborhood of Seattle. Not only is it the city’s largest public park, but it also contains 11.81 miles of walking trails, which serve as prime spots to see the ever-changing landscape and colorful fall leaves in Washington. The park’s proximity to Downtown Seattle makes it an especially popular destination for visitors looking to get a glimpse of autumn, without having to travel too far outside of the city. For more information, visit www.seattle.gov.
Leavenworth
The transition into the fall season is just one element of the refreshingly different scenery that’s offered in Leavenworth—the Bavarian-styled village located within the Cascade Mountains, in central Washington State. The town is celebrated for its alpine-style buildings and restaurant scene that serves some of the most authentic German beer in the state—maybe even the country. Leavenworth’s quaint culture helps to create a sort of unparalleled charm that feels like something straight out of a Hallmark movie. For more information, visit www.leavenworth.org.
Mt. Rainier National Park
Mt. Rainier National Park is known for its picturesque views and undeniable beauty that can basically be enjoyed year-round. But come fall, the landscape boasts stunning autumn hues, with orange and red tones visible all throughout the trees and mountains for excellent leaf peeping. Plus, the snow-capped peaks of Mt. Rainier act as the perfect backdrop for this ever-changing and beloved area of Washington State. Entrance fees start at $15. For more information, visit www.visitrainier.com.
Columbia River Gorge
The Columbia River Gorge is a canyon of the Columbia River located in the Pacific Northwest. Up to 4,000 feet deep, this canyon stretches for over 80 miles and winds westward through the Cascade Range. Locals and tourists alike flock to this gem for its tucked-away views of some of the most scenic spots in the entire state. Unsurprisingly, the glorious fall foliage is only made better by the area’s ethereal beauty and towering waterfall. Note that some Forest Service recreation sites in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area require a day-use fee. For more information, visit www.fs.usda.gov.