Southern California is hardly the first place most people would think of when it comes to enjoying glorious fall foliage - any more than it is considered a white winter destination. But the truth is that, despite our generally moderate year-round weather, we do experience a lovely fall season (in fact, it happens to be my favorite season!) The fall here may not be quite as long or dramatic as some other states, but if you know when and where to go, you can immerse yourself in vibrant shades of red and gold, along with the beautifully crisp weather.
When do leaves change color in Southern California? Where are the best places to see it happen? Every year, the Smoky Mountains team puts out a fabulous Fall Foliage Prediction Map for the whole country - yep, even Southern California - and we have zeroed in on some must-visit spots for 2024’s fall season!
In Southern California, as surprising as it sounds, Los Angeles County is often the first to start showing off its seasonal colors! It is expected to start as early as mid-September and reach peak color around the first or second week of October.
Los Angeles skyline at sunrise
Arguably the best place in LA County to revel in reds, golds, and yellows is Malibu Creek State Park, which also happens to be an amazing place to hike, with tons of trails, grassy meadows, pretty mountains, rock pools, a lake, and more to add to the incredible fall beauty.
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With stunningly manicured gardens as well as trees and plants from all over the world, LA’s botanical gardens, such as Descanso Gardens and the Los Angeles County Arboretum are also enchanting when the fall season arrives.
During the first week of October, San Diego County should begin to join the fall show, and you can count on places like Palomar Mountain State Park to be displaying lovely colors. Consider taking the Palomar Mountain Loop for a wonderfully scenic drive that includes the park.
I would also suggest visiting the town of Julian which not only gives visitors a real fall experience but is noted to have some of the best pie in the state - how fall-worthy is that?
If I had to pick one place as Southern California’s fall town, it would be Oak Glen. Famous not only for its outrageous display of color in the fall, but for old-fashioned cider mills, apple and pumpkin picking, an old-timey theme park, and everything else you associate with a true fall wonderland.
For the best fall foliage experience in Oak Glen, and the rest of San Bernardino County, aim for the second week of October through the end of the month.
Also in the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear Lake (which also happens to be a magical winter destination) comes alive in the fall. In the SoCal mountains, the deep green pines and other evergreens are intermingled with vibrant fall colors for a spectacular show.
Not far from Big Bear Lake, and perhaps a bit less crowded, you can also enjoy similar views at Lake Arrowhead. Take a boat ride to enjoy unbeatable views of the village bathed in gold, red, and green.
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Nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains in Riverside County, the tiny town of Idyllwild-Pine Cove is an ideal place for a little getaway slightly later in the season. Expect the trees and foliage to start changing colors around the second week in October with the peak during the first half of November.
By mid-November, California’s changing of the leaves has passed its peak, although you can still enjoy glimpses of color in some areas as winter approaches. Now that you know when and where you can surround yourself in fall colors as the leaves change color in Southern California, it’s time to get planning! Pack the car, your favorite sweater, some road trip essentials (and of course, don’t forget the road trip snacks!), and enjoy the show!
In Southern California, as surprising as it sounds, Los Angeles County is often the first to start showing off its seasonal colors! It is expected to start as early as mid-September and reach peak color around the first or second week of October.
Arguably the best place in LA County to revel in reds, golds, and yellows is Malibu Creek State Park, which also happens to be an amazing place to hike, with tons of trails, grassy meadows, pretty mountains, rock pools, a lake, and more to add to the incredible fall beauty.
With stunningly manicured gardens as well as trees and plants from all over the world, LA’s botanical gardens, such as Descanso Gardens and the Los Angeles County Arboretum are also enchanting when the fall season arrives.
During the first week of October, San Diego County should begin to join the fall show, and you can count on places like Palomar Mountain State Park to be displaying lovely colors. Consider taking the Palomar Mountain Loop for a wonderfully scenic drive that includes the park.
I would also suggest visiting the town of Julian which not only gives visitors a real fall experience but is noted to have some of the best pie in the state - how fall-worthy is that?
Cropped playful woman in coat walking and playing with maple leaves in the park in autumn
If I had to pick one place as Southern California’s fall town, it would be Oak Glen. Famous not only for its outrageous display of color in the fall, but for old-fashioned cider mills, apple and pumpkin picking, an old-timey theme park, and everything else you associate with a true fall wonderland.
For the best fall foliage experience in Oak Glen, and the rest of San Bernardino County, aim for the second week of October through the end of the month.
Also in the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear Lake (which also happens to be a magical winter destination) comes alive in the fall. In the SoCal mountains, the deep green pines and other evergreens are intermingled with vibrant fall colors for a spectacular show.
Not far from Big Bear Lake, and perhaps a bit less crowded, you can also enjoy similar views at Lake Arrowhead. Take a boat ride to enjoy unbeatable views of the village bathed in gold, red, and green.
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Nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains in Riverside County, the tiny town of Idyllwild-Pine Cove is an ideal place for a little getaway slightly later in the season. Expect the trees and foliage to start changing colors around the second week in October with the peak during the first half of November.
By mid-November, California’s changing of the leaves has passed its peak, although you can still enjoy glimpses of color in some areas as winter approaches. Now that you know when and where you can surround yourself in fall colors as the leaves change color in Southern California, it’s time to get planning! Pack the car, your favorite sweater, some road trip essentials (and of course, don’t forget the road trip snacks!), and enjoy the show!
As the days grow shorter and the air becomes crisper, nature paints a magnificent tapestry of colors across Northern California's landscape. Fall is a season of transformation, and in 2024, it promises to be as breathtaking as ever. If you're a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a picturesque escape, Northern California's fall foliage is a sight to behold.
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So, when do the leaves change in Northern California in 2024? We're relying on this fantastic fall foliage map from Smoky Mountains. Move the toggle on this map to see when and where do leaves change color in Northern California.
Due to different elevations and climates within this diverse state, the best time to see the changing leaves will differ depending on where you want to explore.
Street through a wine vineyard in the autumn in Napa USA
1. Hope Valley
Just a stone's throw from Lake Tahoe is the beautiful Hope Valley.
This serene and picturesque destination in Markleeville is accessible year-round. Arguably the most enchanting time to visit Hope Valley is fall. Peak leaf season typically starts at the very end of September and goes until the end of October.
The aspen groves that dot the landscape burst into brilliant shades of gold, orange, and red, creating a scene that's nothing short of magical. The best time to visit this beautiful fall scene is between late September and the end of October.
2. Quincy
The drive to Quincy, as well as the charming town itself, is a great chance to see fall foliage. Driving through the Plumas National Forest, with a kaleidoscope of fall colors will leave you in awe. Quincy's downtown, lined with well-preserved Victorians, really comes to life with the fall foliage. The best time frame to see the colorful leaves in Quincy is October through early November.
3. Chico
The university town of Chico transforms into a fall paradise when the summer heat gives way to the cool temperatures of autumn. Students go back to school and the small town hums with activity. We love visiting Chico this time of year!
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With its tree-lined streets, vibrant cultural scene, and proximity to the picturesque Bidwell Park, Chico is an inviting destination to experience the magic of the fall season. Explore the downtown area, where the streets are lined with trees. Or walk around Lower Bidwell Park to be amongst the brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold. Visit Chico during the month of October for peak leaf-viewing.
Family playing in autumn leaves
4. Nevada City
Nevada City, nestled in the heart of the gold country, is a charming and historic town that truly comes alive in the fall and winter months. This town looks like something straight out of a Hallmark movie during the fall months. In fact, Nevada City becomes a destination town for those seeking a memorable autumn experience. The best time to visit to see the fall foliage is generally the end of September through early November.
Northern California's fall foliage is a sight you can’t miss. Especially since the foliage makes these small Northern California towns even more lovely. Whether you're a seasoned leaf-peeper or a first-time leafer, be sure to plan your trip during the peak foliage season. Don't forget to pack your camera! Where do you see the most beautiful fall colors in Northern California?
Every season here has its own beauty, but we think Northern California in the fall is oh-so-enchanting. There are stunning displays of colorful leaves to see, pumpkins to pick, festivals to attend, and so much more. Before you start Googling "best fall activities near me," (unless that's what got you here!) check out this collection of some of the best things to do and places to go this fall. Let the adventures begin!
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Northern California Fall Foliage: Where To Go In Northern California For Fall Foliage
If you’re going to enjoy the very best the season has to offer, you need to know when and where to find the best Northern California leaf peeping. The season usually starts in this part of the state in late September with the peak Northern California fall foliage being visible toward the end of October. Here are a few amazing spots to enjoy the magic.
Wow Factor: Fall foliage tour through an old Victorian city
Need To Know: The walking tour is free and self-guided. Tree locations are marked on curbs and sidewalks; detailed directions can also be found on the Nevada City Chamber of Commerce website. The tour route includes a few short but steep hills.
Nevada City is one of California’s oldest and most well-preserved Gold Rush towns, making it a cool place to visit any time. However, during the fall, this historic Victorian town puts on quite an incredible show, owing to different kinds of trees that turn all sorts of shades with the change in the weather. Autumn in Nevada City is so noteworthy that the local Chamber of Commerce offers a self-guided Fall Colors Tour through this charming town to discover the various trees and their stunning hues of yellow, gold, orange, scarlet, purple, and brown. Bring your walking shoes and your camera for this picture-perfect experience!
Wow Factor: Second-highest mountain pass with a road in California, and stunning views!
Need To Know: Sonora Pass is closed from early winter until mid to late spring. Check weather and road conditions before heading out if you plan to make the drive later in the season.
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Fall truly seems like the ideal time for a scenic drive, and the lesser-known Sonora Pass is about as scenic as they come. Perhaps due to the high elevation, peak season for colorful foliage in the pass lasts a little longer than many other areas in California, often starting in early September and sometimes lasting into November. Sonora Pass, also known as Highway 108, begins in the town of Sonora and ends at Sonora Junction, about 80 miles in total. Along this scenic byway, you will pass through forests of bright yellow and gold birch trees, a waterfall, West Walker River, and breathtaking vista points.
Wow Factor: Hidden gem just 20 miles from Lake Tahoe
Need To Know: From Lake Tahoe, take Highway 50 heading south to Highway 89 which ends at Carson Pass Highway.
Lake Tahoe is a popular year-round destination, but just 20 miles south of the popular lake is a fall wonderland that may be the Sierra Nevada’s best-kept secret. This secluded but accessible destination is a little-known detour that you may just have all to yourself. There are numerous hiking trails through Hope Valley as well as creeks, rivers, alpine lakes, and campgrounds throughout the area - and it all comes alive in the fall with vibrantly-colored Aspens and golden meadows. You can explore the area by car with scenic drives along Carson Pass and Blue Lakes Road, and be sure to visit the charming town of Markleville while you’re here!
Wow Factor: Photo-worthy lakes and mountains, awesome hiking trails, and scenic gondola rides
Need To Know: The fall season here usually lasts from late September through early October. This is a popular fall destination, so book accommodations early if you plan to stay overnight.
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The town of Mammoth Lakes, and the surrounding area, is often thought of as a winter ski destination, but when fall comes to the region, it is a spectacular place to surround yourself in colorful foliage. You’ll discover picture-perfect vistas around the area’s glacier-carved lakes surrounded by trees turning shades of orange, gold, and red - all against a backdrop of the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains. The cool fall weather is perfect for hiking and biking along the many trails like those in Mammoth Creek Park. And gondola rides offer visitors sweeping scenic views you won’t forget.
Best Pumpkin Patches In Northern California
If you’re a fan of fall’s favorite fruit - whether you like to pick them, bake with them, or decorate your house with them - you’ll be excited to know where you can visit some of the best pumpkin patches in Northern California.
Wow Factor: Claims the title of largest U-pick pumpkin field in the world!
Need To Know: Admission is free. Tickets can be purchased for individual activities on the farm.
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The massive U-pick pumpkin patch is just the beginning of the fall fun to be had at the incredible family-run Bishop’s Pumpkin Farm. In addition to finding your perfect pumpkin (which you can reach by means of a fun hay ride), families will love wandering through a huge corn maze, taking a mini train ride around the farm, riding Charlie’s Carousel, feeding goats at Weeland Petting Zoo, and enjoying carnival-style rides. There are fun shows - like the “Olympigs” race - and mouthwatering eats and treats, from BBQ and pretzel dogs to fresh cookies and fudge, and much, much more.
Wow Factor: Historic farm with a world-famous hay-bale maze!
Need To Know: Admission to the farm is free. Individual attraction tickets and combo packages are available to purchase.
Established in 1932, Arata’s Pumpkin Farm is the oldest working pumpkin farm in the county. Not only do they have pumpkins of every size and color, including specialty pumpkins, but this happens to be the home of the world-famous 2-acre Minotaur’s Labyrinth hay bale maze. You can also explore the 6-acre corn field and historical barn. Kids of all ages will enjoy the train ride, pony rides, a petting zoo, and PlayLand as well.
Wow Factor: Annual Pumpkin Patch Festival every weekend in October!
Need To Know: The farm is open daily. No fee for general admission on weekdays. On Saturdays and Sundays, there is a small suggested donation per car. Some festival attractions must be purchased separately.
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Nash Pumpkin Patch is tucked away in the picturesque city of Redding and like every truly great pumpkin patch, offers lots of fun activities for families to enjoy in the fall. Aside from an abundance of pick-your-own pumpkins, this family-operated farm hosts an annual Pumpkin Patch Festival every weekend in October. The festival features a petting zoo, corn and straw mazes, an inflated obstacle course and bounce house, train rides, and some great food and snack booths. There is even a mini corn maze for small kids and great play area for littles to burn off some energy.
Need To Know: Open daily during the fall season. Purchase tickets on-site for hay rides, corn bath, and the corn maze.
A day trip to Cool Patch Pumpkins is a true celebration of fall. Pick your own pumpkins, gourds, squash, and more, and then explore a few things a lot of other pumpkin patches don’t have. For starters, this farm is home to the world’s largest corn maze! Featured on the Travel Channel and certified by Guinness World Records, this epic 63-acre maze is different every year. The path (if you make no wrong turns) is about three miles long and takes most people about two hours to get through. Cool Patch also has a giant pool of corn to play in, awesome photo ops, a concession stand with tri-tip sandwiches, and a coffee cart serving pumpkin pie.
Best Fall Festivals In Northern California
This state has some incredible celebrations of the season that you do not want to miss, so we have rounded up some of the best fall festivals in Northern California.
Wow Factor: Gorgeous location among the redwoods and over 130 artisans
Need To Know: Festival takes place in Old Mill Park in downtown Mill Valley. Free parking is available at Edna Maguire School and Mill Valley Middle School, and free shuttles will operate with several stops through the area between parking lots and the festival location.
Wander through majestic redwoods at the iconic Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival and enjoy the work of over 130 local and international artists including paintings, photography, jewelry, found and repurposed items, paper and wood crafts, sculpture, ceramics, and much more. Enjoy two days full of entertainment, artisan presentations, and fun family activities. Live performances include music, theater, and story-stelling that all ages will enjoy. And of course, you’ll find delicious food and drink offerings at the festival.
Need To Know: Admission is free. Free parking can be found on side streets and several parking areas are available for a small fee. No pets allowed.
At the annual Half Moon Bay Art and Pumpkin Festival, it’s time to “Celebrate the Great and Almighty Gourd” as well as the bounty and colorful beauty of the fall season. Browse harvest-inspired fine art and handicrafts by over 250 professional and craft artisans. Participate in costume and pie-eating contests, play games, marvel at the huge carved pumpkin masterpieces by Farmer Mike, and have your mind blown by pumpkins the size of a rhinoceros at the famous weigh-off. Of course, there will also be plenty of delicious foods and beverages as well as non-stop musical entertainment.
Need To Know: Admission is free. Recommended parking is at the Campbell Community Center or the public garage near the Campbell Water Tower.
For nearly 30 years, the town of Campbell has held the popular German-themed Oktoberfest. Don your best lederhosen and dirndl and join the celebration with traditional foods (and lots of usual fair favorites as well), great beers in the Biersch Garden, over 100 artisan booths, and plenty of entertainment. Level up the fun by joining in costume and stein-holding contests, and dancing to music by some of the area’s best local bands.
Need To Know: Admission-free event takes place on the first weekend of October.
The historic Johnny Appleseed Days was first held back in 1888 and has become a beloved tradition in Northern California. Make your way to Paradise to celebrate all things apple in a region that once boasted more than 50 orchards. While much has changed, this tradition lives on with lots of apple-y treats (1,000 pies are baked for the festival!), plenty of shopping, hometown musical entertainment, and fun activities for all ages. And don’t miss a priceless photo with Johnny Appleseed!
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Free & Cheap Northern California Fall Activities
Whether we are watching our pennies, have a family to entertain, or just want to pack as much fun into the season as possible, it’s good to know where to enjoy awesome Northern California fall activities that won’t break the bank. In fact, these ones won’t cost you anything!
There are several places in Northern California where you can watch a salmon run, but the fall migration that occurs at Taylor Creek near Lake Tahoe is especially incredible to see. Usually at the beginning of October, with early fall rains, hundreds of Kokanee Salmon begin to swim upstream into the creek to spawn. What makes these particular salmon in this particular place so unique is that, like Sockeye Salmon, these normally silver-hued fish turn a brilliant (fall-colored) red, with green heads and fins - a fascinating sight! Be sure to visit the Taylor Creek Visitor Center during open hours to get an underwater look at the salmon at the Stream Profile Chamber, then follow the short Rainbow Trail for outdoor viewing and some fall foliage, too.
Wow Factor: Tour massive ships and interact with Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard personnel
Need To Know: Ship tours are free of charge and tour lines are first-come, first-served.
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Fleet Week is a San Francisco tradition featuring visiting Navy and Coast Guard ships docked along the San Francisco waterfront. Climb aboard a variety of ships at the Embarcadero - from cruisers to carriers to destroyers - and peek into the daily lives and activities of sailors that serve on these vessels.
Touted as “one of the largest, free-est, and beloved music festivals in the country,” the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival is an epic fall event that draws hundreds of thousands of music lovers to Golden Gate Park for a three-day entertainment extravaganza. As the “hardly” in the name implies, what was once a bluegrass-only festival has expanded to include multiple genres. Get ready to enjoy dozens of musical performances on six stages!
Wow Factor: Stunning fall colors right in the city!
Need To Know: San Francisco Botanical Garden is free on the 2nd Tuesday of the month and daily from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. The Japanese Tea Garden is free Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.
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The massive Golden Gate Park in San Francisco allows big city residents and visitors to escape into beautiful green nature for a bit. It also happens to offer a chance to enjoy some pretty flashes of fall foliage without actually leaving the city. Specifically, the park’s Japanese Tea Garden and San Francisco Botanical Garden come alive with color during fall. Even better, there are several times when you can enjoy them for free.
With some of the coolest things to do and best places to visit in Northern California in the fall, you are ready for an epic season. Which of these are on your fall to-do list? We'd love to hear your thoughts, and if you have other favorite fall spots, share those with us, too!
