When autumn rolls into Washington, the landscape transforms into a vibrant mix of fiery reds, glowing oranges, and golden yellows. Whether you’re chasing the crisp air, peaceful hikes, or Instagram-worthy views, Washington State offers some of the most spectacular fall foliage on the West Coast. Below are 15 of the best places to experience the magic of fall in 2025, from serene forests to scenic byways.
1. Leavenworth – A Bavarian Village Drenched in Fall Color
Leavenworth is arguably Washington’s most iconic fall destination. Nestled in the Cascade Mountains, this charming Bavarian-themed village turns into an autumn wonderland from late September to mid-October.
The surrounding forests are packed with vine maples, western larches, and cottonwoods, all showing off in rich hues. Head out for a drive along Highway 2 or hike the Icicle Gorge Trail for breathtaking valley views blanketed in color.
- Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Leavenworth Autumn Leaf Festival—Washington’s oldest festival celebrating fall.
- Visit Leavenworth
2. Mount Rainier National Park – Fiery Meadows and Alpine Views
Mount Rainier doesn’t just draw crowds in the summer. In fall, the park erupts into color, especially around Paradise and Sunrise, where subalpine meadows glow with crimson huckleberries and golden larches.
The Naches Peak Loop Trail (near Chinook Pass) is an easy 3.5-mile hike that offers jaw-dropping views of Rainier surrounded by fall color. You can also take a scenic drive along Stevens Canyon Road for panoramic views.
- Best Time to Visit: Late September to early October.
- Mount Rainier National Park Official Website
3. North Cascades Highway (SR 20) – Washington’s Ultimate Fall Drive
Often overlooked, the North Cascades Highway is an underrated gem when it comes to fall foliage in Washington. As you drive along State Route 20, you’ll witness a dazzling blend of maples, aspens, and golden alpine larches lighting up the mountains.
Key stops include:
Washington Pass Overlook – Panoramic views framed by orange and gold.
Rainy Lake Trail – A short, accessible walk ending at a turquoise lake surrounded by fall color.
Maple Pass Loop – A strenuous but rewarding hike for peak fall scenery.
- Seasonal Tip: SR 20 typically closes for the winter around late October, so plan early!
- North Cascades Scenic Byway
4. The Columbia River Gorge – Vivid Colors with River Views
Although more commonly associated with Oregon, the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge offers equally stunning fall foliage—with fewer crowds.
Explore Beacon Rock State Park, where trails like Hamilton Mountain deliver sweeping views of colorful forests and waterfalls. You’ll find a brilliant mix of bigleaf maples, oaks, and firs lighting up the cliffs and canyons.
- Local Favorite: Take a drive along SR 14 between Stevenson and Maryhill during the first half of October.
5. Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest – Larch Heaven
For those seeking golden larch trees, few places beat the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest in fall. These rare, deciduous conifers turn a blazing yellow in mid-October, lighting up the high alpine trails like something out of a fantasy novel.
Top hikes include:
Lake Ingalls Trail – Stunning alpine lake framed by larch trees.
Cutthroat Pass via the Pacific Crest Trail – One of the best larch-viewing trails in the state.
- Know Before You Go: These hikes are typically in higher elevations—bring layers, and check for early snow.
- Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest
6. Rattlesnake Ledge – A Quick Hike with Big Color Payoff
Just an hour from Seattle, Rattlesnake Ledge offers one of the most accessible and rewarding fall hikes in the state. The trail winds through a dense forest filled with bigleaf maples and vine maples, which explode in brilliant shades of yellow and orange come early October.
At the top, you’re rewarded with sweeping views of Rattlesnake Lake surrounded by colorful hills and evergreen ridges. It’s a popular spot, so go early for parking and fewer crowds.
- Perfect for: A half-day adventure close to the city.
- Rattlesnake Ledge Trail Info
7. Deception Pass State Park – Coastal Colors with Mountain Backdrops
One of Washington’s most visited parks, Deception Pass State Park offers a unique mix of coastal fall colors, rugged cliffs, and forested trails. The park is home to a variety of trees like alders, maples, and madrones, which contrast beautifully against the deep blue waters of Puget Sound.
Take a walk across the Deception Pass Bridge, or explore the Lighthouse Point Trail for views of fiery leaves reflecting in the tide.
- Best time to visit: Early to mid-October.
8. Green Lake, Seattle – Urban Fall Magic
You don’t have to leave Seattle to enjoy fall foliage. Green Lake Park turns into a kaleidoscope of color in October, making it perfect for a casual walk, bike ride, or jog under a canopy of blazing maples and oaks.
The 2.8-mile loop around the lake is flat and family-friendly. It’s also one of the most photogenic urban spots for fall photos—with trees mirrored perfectly on the water’s surface at sunrise or sunset.
- Bonus: Grab a hot drink at nearby Retreat Coffee and enjoy it lakeside.
- Seattle Parks – Green Lake
9. Ginkgo Petrified Forest & Vantage – Fall Meets Geology
This lesser-known spot near the town of Vantage offers a different take on fall. While the petrified wood is the main attraction, Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park also sits along the Columbia River, framed by patches of cottonwoods and maples that turn bright yellow each October.
The Wanapum Recreation Area and overlook trails offer wide-open views of the gorge with a colorful tree line, especially vivid at sunrise.
- Unique Experience: Combine fall colors with ancient fossils and desert landscapes.
10. Bloedel Reserve – Tranquil Elegance on Bainbridge Island
Located on Bainbridge Island, the Bloedel Reserve is a peaceful, curated garden and forest setting that becomes a leaf-peeping paradise in fall. The walking paths wind through Japanese maples, birch groves, and moss-draped trees in full autumn glory.
It’s not wild wilderness—it’s more zen garden meets fall foliage—but its quiet beauty and curated design make it one of the best spots for peaceful fall moments.
- Tip: Take the ferry from Seattle for a scenic fall day trip.
- Bloedel Reserve Official Site
11. Kettle Crest Trail – Northeast Washington’s Hidden Gem
Tucked away in Ferry County, the Kettle Crest Trail in the Colville National Forest offers incredible solitude and golden fall color. This high ridge trail is surrounded by western larches, which turn a glowing yellow in mid-to-late October.
Because it’s less crowded than more famous areas, you’ll enjoy peaceful hiking, sweeping views of the Okanogan Highlands, and crisp mountain air all to yourself.
- Highlight: Try the White Mountain Trailhead access for moderate hiking with high-elevation views.
- Colville National Forest – Kettle Crest Info
12. Twin Falls Trail – Easy Autumn Hike Near Seattle
Looking for a shorter fall hike just outside the city? Twin Falls Trail, located near North Bend, is a low-elevation gem perfect for families and casual hikers. The trail follows the South Fork Snoqualmie River, weaving through forests of bigleaf maple and alder, glowing with golden hues by early October.
At just over 2.5 miles roundtrip, it’s doable in a morning, and the reward is a dramatic two-tier waterfall surrounded by fall color and mossy evergreens.
- Parking Note: This trail requires a Discover Pass for access.
- Washington Trails Association – Twin Falls Trail
13. Tolt-MacDonald Park – Fall Views Along the River
Located in Carnation, WA, Tolt-MacDonald Park is one of the best-kept secrets for fall foliage near Seattle. The park features a suspension bridge over the Snoqualmie River, framed by vibrant red and yellow maples in October.
Whether you’re camping, walking, or just enjoying a riverside picnic, this park combines quiet beauty with accessibility, especially for families or photographers.
- Tip: Come in the morning for golden-hour lighting across the riverbanks.
14. Alta Lake State Park – Lakeside Color in Central Washington
Alta Lake State Park, just south of the Methow Valley, is a fantastic spot for fall foliage with a twist—colorful reflections on a serene alpine lake. The surrounding hills light up in October, particularly with burning orange and amber from deciduous trees scattered among the pines.
It’s quieter than other popular lakes, and the contrast between jagged gray cliffs, evergreens, and fall leaves is truly stunning.
- Perfect For: A relaxed fall picnic or kayak session with panoramic views.
15. Capitol State Forest – Fall Color Near Olympia
Just 20 minutes west of Olympia, Capitol State Forest offers an underrated fall experience in Western Washington. The forest is laced with multi-use trails and gravel roads, great for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking, all framed by changing maple, alder, and vine maple trees.
Because of the forest’s elevation variation, colors appear over a longer window, from late September through late October. For a scenic drive, explore the Waddell Creek Road loop.
- Local Tip: Visit on a weekday to enjoy near solitude among the golden leaves.
- Capitol State Forest Map and Info
Final Tips for Your Fall Adventure
Timing is everything. Peak foliage typically occurs between late September and mid-October, depending on elevation and region.
Go midweek to avoid weekend traffic and crowded trails.
Bring a camera and dress in layers—mornings can be crisp, but sunny afternoons are perfect for exploring.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When is peak fall foliage in Washington?
Most areas peak between September 25 and October 15, though higher elevations and eastern Washington can change earlier.
Where can I see golden larches in Washington?
Head to Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, especially around Lake Ingalls and Maple Pass Loop, from early to mid-October.
Do I need a permit to hike in fall?
Many popular trails require a Northwest Forest Pass or Discover Pass—check ahead before you go.
If you’re planning a fall road trip, Washington’s foliage won’t disappoint. Whether you’re hiking through golden alpine meadows or sipping cider in a Bavarian village, these 15 destinations promise unforgettable fall views in 2025.
Want more seasonal guides? Be sure to check out my full Washington State travel series here
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I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
