When you're lucky enough to live in Washington, road tripping is always delightful. We all have our favorite areas, but the truth is, there really is no ugly part of the Evergreen State. Our scenic byways are especially lovely, and they're well worth going out of your way for. If you have yet to experience the wildly underrated Spirit Lake Memorial Highway, add it to your road trip bucket list right away.
The Spirit Lake Memorial Highway, also known as SR-504, is a 52-mile stretch of highway in Southwest Washington.
It travels along the North Fork Toutle River to the Mount St. Helens area. In fact, it's the main access route to the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument.
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This byway is the only of its kind to penetrate a fresh volcanic blast zone.
Once you cross over the Coal Bank Bridge, you'll continue along the north side of the North Fork Toutle River, following the narrow valley to the east of Beigle Mountain.
Is summer done, or is it late summer still, or am I coping? As much as I love the fleece blanket that is the Pacific Northwest winter, there's no denying the beauty that is a Washington State summer. Though we might bid our sunshine adieu, make no mistake .... there's still time to accomplish a few warm-weather activities!
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1. Get into the mountains.
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In Washington, the prime time to visit alpine areas is mid-June to September. Though some routes may remain open longer, others may close early due to early snowfall or deteriorating trail conditions. As we edge away from summer, now's the time to tackle those strenuous but oh-so-rewarding hikes you've been pushing till tomorrow. Whether it's Ptarmigan Ridge (the route pictured here) or another one of our state's breathtaking trails, you'll be happy you made the effort to see our mountains before they're covered once more in snowfall.
2. Dig for some fossils.
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Whether it's taking up karate or cannon-balling in the pool, I maintain that every adult has an activity or two they'd love to try if they weren't too embarrassed to commit. Mine is digging for fossils and it just so happens that Eastern Washington is home to several rich archeology beds. While the fair weather lasts, pop over to Republic, a button-sized town located alongside breathtaking State Route 20. Here, Stonerose Interpretive Center & Eocene Fossil Site lets regular folks like you and I play archeologist for a day. Best of all, on-site experts will identify whatever fossils you uncover and allow you to take a couple home!
3. Go foraging for mushrooms.
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Nothing puts a positive spin on all the Pacific Northwest's rain like appreciating what it does for local mushrooms. With our verdant forests and proliferate damp, we have the perfect environment for an array of fungal species, delighting chefs and mycologists alike! Foraging for edible mushroom species can be risky solo, so book an outing with an expert-led group. You'll be spotting morels in no time!
4. Head to an apple orchard.
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Did you know that Washington is the country's largest apple-producing state? In fact, Washington State University has developed some of the world's most popular varieties, including a recent favorite of mine, the Cosmic Crisp. With this in mind, few things are more quintessentially "Washington" than spending the day in a U-pick orchard. And, as it happens, these delicious fruits are perfectly in season.
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5. Learn how chocolate is made in Seattle.
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Is this a personal bucket list item? Perhaps. Still, I maintain that chocolate is an effective medicine against the endless gray of Washington's winters. After all, if seasonal affective disorder is a thing, then so too is post-truffle bliss. Learn how one of Seattle's premiere chocolatiers, Spinnaker Chocolate, creates their confections and stock up like a squirrel for a rainy day.
6. Go glamping.
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This close to the winter months, we're pushing our luck if we count on good weather. With the innovation of glamping, however, we don't need to rely on sunshine for a fantastic trip! Before winter arrives and makes a night al fresco truly untenable (or, at the very least, an entirely different enterprise), book your stay at a cozy glamping spot like this snug gem in Duvall.
We might be nearing the end of our good Washington weather, but that doesn’t mean we can’t still mark things off our summer bucket list. What are some activities you plan on doing before the rain sets in?
Hello, sweater weather! Every season has its own magic to offer here in The Evergreen State, but autumn in Washington is when our state truly comes alive. The air turns crisp, the skies get that moody Pacific Northwest vibe, and everything seems to slow down just enough for you to actually take it all in. There’s just something about the fall season here that’s next-level special! Maybe it's the contrast between the towering evergreens and the explosion of seasonal colors, or maybe it's the way you can hop between mountain hikes, coastal views, and quirky small-town festivals all in the same weekend. Whatever it is, Washington isn’t just a place to watch the leaves fall - it's the perfect place to fully dive into all the beauty, adventure, and nostalgic traditions that autumn brings, from corn mazes and pumpkin patches to unexpected family adventures.
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Washington Fall Foliage: Where to Go in Washington for Fall Colors
Ready to "leaf" your worries behind? Washington’s fall foliage is calling your name! Washington's fall colors starts to light up skylines as early as mid-September, peaking around mid-October, but these displays aren't just another chapter in the seasonal calendar — it's a full-blown color parade. From the first hints of cooler weather, trees everywhere start showing off like it’s their own personal fashion week. What’s wild about Washington is the way the colors shift depending on where you are. Some spots are all about fiery reds, while others throw down brilliant yellows and golds. And because the state’s geography is so varied, you'll get weeks of eye-popping views that just keep coming. Whether you're into the thick forests, open plains, or something in between, Washington serves up an unforgettable autumn show - and these are just a few of the many, many spots to catch every act.
1. Mt. Baker Highway
Fall color adds to this beautiful scenic drive up the Mt. Baker Highway to the recreation area of the Pacific Northwest.
Location: Bellingham, WA
Wow-Factor: This 50-mile scenic highway leads straight to Mt. Baker and is lined with vibrant golden aspens and crimson maples, creating one of the most striking fall drives in the Pacific Northwest.
Need To Know: Parts of the highway may close in late fall due to snow.
Mt. Baker Highway (State Route 542) is the ultimate autumn road trip. Winding through the dense forests of the North Cascades, this scenic route is ALL about those fall colors! This beloved highway offers miles upon miles of bright orange, red, and yellow trees — mostly bigleaf maple, vine maple, and western larch — giving you postcard-worthy views with every turn. You'll feel like you’re driving through a tunnel of color before you even reach the towering peak of Mt. Baker itself. Make sure to stop by Picture Lake for some mirror-like reflections of the fiery foliage on the water, or take a quick hike along the Horseshoe Bend Trail to catch the Nooksack River surrounded by fall hues. It's one of those drives where you’ll want to stop every few miles to take in the view (and, trust us, you’ll find plenty of pull-offs and picnic areas to do just that!).
2. Methow Valley
The Methow River, lined with trees in beautiful fall color, winds beneath Mount Gardner just outside the town of Winthrop in Washington’s Methow Valley.
Location: Winthrop, WA
Wow-Factor: Methow Valley features over 120 miles of trails, perfect for getting out and soaking in the vibrant fall colors and golden larch trees.
Need To Know: Popular hiking and biking trails here are well-marked and accessible, but the area can get a bit chilly as fall progresses, so dress warmly!
The Methow Valley is located in north-central Washington, nestled in the eastern foothills of the North Cascades. It stretches along the stunning Methow River and is accessible via the equally scenic Highway 20, also known as the North Cascades Highway. Methow Valley in fall is a kaleidoscope of colors. With rolling hills and towering mountains in the backdrop, this area transforms into a vibrant landscape filled with golden larches, fiery maples, and cottonwoods lining the Methow River. Travelers and leaf-peepers can hike or bike along its many scenic trails, including the famous Sun Mountain Trails, or cruise through the valley on a leisurely drive to take in the autumn hues. Don't forget to explore the charming town of Winthrop with its Old West vibe. Grab a hot cider and enjoy a perfect fall day exploring this stunning valley!
3. Lake Chelan State Park & National Recreation Area
Location: Chelan, WA
Wow-Factor: Lake Chelan is one of Washington's most popular state parks for a reason, and the 55-mile long Lake Chelan is the undeniable heart of it.
Need To Know: There's a fee to enter the park, and fall can bring cooler temperatures, so dress in layers if you're planning to hike or boat.
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Lake Chelan State Park offers more than just stunning lake views; in fall, it’s a kaleidoscope of colors. The forests lining the lake’s shores, filled with deciduous trees like aspens and cottonwoods, explode into shades of gold and red. You can enjoy the views from the Lakeshore Trail, which winds through dense trees and offers picturesque fall scenery with the lake in the background. It's also a great time to visit the nearby vineyards for wine tasting while soaking in the seasonal hues. For a unique stop while you're here, check out the historic Buckner Homestead and Orchard for some seriously photogenic rustic beauty. Whether you're hiking, boating, or simply taking in the surroundings, the crisp air and vibrant foliage make autumn at Lake Chelan State Park unforgettable!
4. Mount Rainier National Park
Location: Ashford, WA
Wow-Factor: Rainier's 236,000 acres of wilderness burst into fiery fall colors from the diverse range of plants and trees, including golden huckleberries and fiery vine maples.
Need To Know: Some roads and trails may close due to early snowfall, so check ahead before venturing into higher elevations.
A list of the best places to see fall foliage in Washington wouldn't be complete without our state's crowning jewel! Fall at Mount Rainier National Park is a sensory overload of natural wonders and breathtaking beauty. Gorgeous areas like Paradise and Sunrise showcase brilliant hues in alpine meadows and larches, while Reflection Lakes provide serene reflections of the autumn landscape. Mowich Lake offers a quieter experience with colorful foliage mirrored in its still waters, and Longmire presents lush forests transitioning into fall colors at a lower elevation. The Tatoosh Mountains boast even more spectacular displays within the national park — even from a distance — and there is no shortage of jaw-dropping trails around the park that are jam-packed with incredible sights that can be experienced up close. MRNP is a bucket list fall destination if there ever was one!
5. Spokane
Vivid fall colors of red, orange, and yellow at the Spokane Washington Riverfront Park along the Spokane River with the Great Northern Clock Tower in view. Spokane is a city in eastern Washington state.
Location: Spokane, WA
Wow-Factor: Spokane has more than 4,000 acres of parkland, including the stunning 100-acre Riverfront Park that bursts with fall colors.
Need To Know: Spokane's fall weather is typically mild, making it perfect for outdoor activities, but prepare for chilly, foggy mornings!
Spokane really shines in the fall, with its expansive parks, tree-lined streets, and cool urban vibe. Riverfront Park, right in the heart of downtown, becomes a vibrant tapestry of reds, yellows, and oranges. The Spokane River and its iconic waterfalls look even more striking framed by autumn foliage. Head to nearby Manito Park to explore the Japanese Garden, where maple leaves create an almost otherworldly landscape, or take a scenic drive to Mt. Spokane State Park for sweeping views and incredible hiking. You’ll find plenty of craft breweries and coffee shops nearby for a warm-up after your outdoor adventures!
Best Pumpkin Patches in Washington
Pumpkin patches in Washington aren't just about picking out the perfect gourd — they're an entire fall experience. From hayrides to corn mazes, cider tastings to corn pits, these pumpkin patches are the heart of autumn fun. Whether you’re on the hunt for a spooky jack-o’-lantern or just looking to enjoy the crisp fall air with your favorite crew, Washington’s pumpkin patches serve up all the best seasonal vibes. Plus, with the state’s mix of coastal, mountain, and valley regions, each visit has a different backdrop, making it an unbeatable place to soak in one of the season's best fall activities.
6. Carpinito Bros.
A young happy Caucasian family selects pumpkins for Halloween at their local neighborhood small business farm. The father pushes the children in a wheelbarrow. Shot in Washington state, USA.
Location: Kent, WA
Wow-Factor: Mount Rainier makes for a stunning backdrop at this long-standing family farm and garden center.
Need to Know: There is a nominal admission fee, which will be credited toward pumpkin purchases.
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The pumpkin patch at Carpinito Bros. may be only 30 minutes south of Seattle, but this beloved garden center and produce farm feels miles away from the city! In the fall, the main attraction is, of course, the wide variety of pumpkins available for picking on the 20+ acre pumpkin patch. Visitors can choose from numerous types and sizes of pumpkins to find the perfect one for their fall decor or Halloween festivities, ranging from adorable mini 'kins to jumbo gourds and everything in between. Load up your wheelbarrow with your favorites! But Carpinito Bros. also boasts a large corn maze, farm animals for the littles to visit, hayrides around the farm, and oodles of fall-themed snacks! Keep your camera handy to capture those priceless memories — you'll find plenty of picture-perfect backdrops just waiting to make an appearance in your fall family photos.
7. Knapp's on Green Bluff
Location: Colbert, WA
Wow-Factor: Located on a scenic bluff overlooking the valley, this phenomenal u-pick farm boasts one of the most incredible locations in the state.
Need to Know: Knapp's also recently partnered with Siemers Farm to bring a brand new fall festival to the valley, in addition to traditional pumpkin picking.
Knapp's on Green Bluff is a beloved autumn destination renowned for its bountiful six-acre pumpkin patch and bevy of family-friendly activities. Beautifully set on the edge of Green Bluff, a popular agricultural area, Knapp's features a diverse selection of pumpkins, including heirloom varieties and traditional favorites. Visitors can wander through the sprawling fields to pick the perfect pumpkin, enjoy scenic hayrides, and explore the picturesque farm environment. The patch is complemented by a charming farm stand offering seasonal treats and fresh produce, making it a quintessential spot for experiencing fall's best activities!
8. Bob's Corn & Pumpkin Farm
Location: Snohomish, WA
Wow-Factor: Bob’s Corn features over 60 varieties of pumpkins sprawled across 30 acres, ensuring everyone finds their perfect pick!
Need To Know: There’s no fee to enter the pumpkin patch itself, but expect a charge for the corn maze and extra activities.
Bob’s Corn & Pumpkin Farm is a quintessential fall stop in Snohomish, especially when you're after a vibrant and abundant pumpkin patch. The farm boasts a huge variety of pumpkins — from decorative minis to the giant, carve-worthy monsters. Families love wandering the sprawling patch, snapping photos among the rolling fields of orange gourds. After you pick your pumpkin, be sure to check out the farm’s other autumn activities like the huge corn maze, hayrides, and cozy fire pits. Bob’s is a full fall experience, and nothing says autumn quite like searching for that perfect pumpkin in a sea of orange!
Best Fall Festivals in Washington
Washington's seasonal beauty is tough to beat, but it's our state's local communities — our quaint small towns and charming getaway hubs — that kick the season up a few notches. From apple cider tastings to quirky costume parades, these fall festivals pack in all the autumn charm you could hope for. The best part? Each fest has its own twist — celebrating everything from local art to farm-fresh produce. When fall hits Washington, it's more than just cozy sweaters and colorful leaves; it’s an invitation to dive into a packed calendar of autumn fun at these "only in Washington" fall festivals!
9. Fresh Hop Ale Festival
Group Of Charming And Cheerful Young Women Tasting Beer At Summer Festival
Location: Yakima, WA
Wow-Factor: This festival celebrates Yakima’s role in growing over 75% of the U.S.’s hops, with over 50 breweries offering unique, fresh-hop creations.
Need To Know: 21+ only. Admission includes drink tokens and a commemorative glass. Typically held the first week of October at SOZO Sports.
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Yakima's Fresh Hop Ale Festival is where beer lovers unite to celebrate the freshest brews in the country. As the hop-growing capital of the U.S., Yakima hosts this annual event every fall, and it’s all about beers brewed with hops that have been harvested less than 24 hours prior. With live music, local food trucks, and more than 50 breweries showcasing their fresh-hop concoctions, it’s a must for craft beer aficionados. The vibe is laid-back but energetic, making it a perfect fall outing for anyone who loves good beer, live tunes, and the smell of fresh hops in the air. And the best part? The festival gives back a TON to local charities, scholarships, and even after-school programs, which means drinking beer at this nationally-ranked festival is quite literally contributing to saving the world.
10. Remlinger Farms Fall Harvest Pumpkin Festival
Location: Carnation, WA
Wow-Factor: Remlinger Farms transforms into a fall wonderland, offering over 35 family-friendly rides and activities alongside a massive pumpkin patch.
Need To Know: Typically a month-long celebration that takes place every weekend from mid-September to mid-October.
We could easily have added Remlinger Farms to our "best pumpkin patches in Washington" list, but this family fun spot is so much more! At Remlinger Farms, fall is an adventure. Their Pumpkin Festival isn't just about pumpkins (although the patch is huge) — it’s a whole month of rides, games, and hands-on experiences. Kids and adults alike can enjoy roller coasters, pony rides, live entertainment, and even a steam train that loops around the farm. If you’re into fall traditions, you can pick out a perfect pumpkin and try your hand at navigating the corn maze. With farm animals, fresh cider, and homemade pie (yes!), this festival checks all the fall boxes, making it a great way to get into the autumn spirit without traveling too far outside Seattle.
Wow-Factor: This festival has been celebrating Leavenworth’s autumn beauty for over 60 years with parades, live music, and the charming backdrop of the Bavarian village.
Need To Know: This three-day festival takes place in late September and features free events, though parking can be tricky — plan to arrive early or use public transport.
Leavenworth is, without a doubt, one of Washington's most charming small towns, but it's often the town's winter offerings that get the most attention. The Washington State Autumn Leaf Festival is your ticket to a colorful celebration of fall in Leavenworth’s Bavarian wonderland in living color! Expect a lively scene of autumn-themed floats parading through the streets, plus street performers, local vendors, and traditional German fare that draws in visitors from across the state. The event also features live music, family activities, and the Royal Lady float, adding to the long-running traditions of this beloved festival. With the Cascades painted in brilliant fall hues, there’s no better way to embrace Washington’s autumn season.
Free & Cheap Washington Fall Activities
Enjoying the season doesn't have to mean breaking the bank. From delicious wine tours and exhilarating train rides to stunning botanical areas, there’s plenty to do on a budget. Grab a pumpkin spice latte, throw on your favorite flannel, and get ready to dive into some of the best affordable activities in Washington!
12. Visit an Arboretum
Lush, vibrant fall colors in Washington Park Arboretum in Seattle
Location: Various, WA
Wow-Factor: There are well over two dozen botanical areas in Washington, each with their own personality, special events, and areas of specialty.
Need to Know: Most of Washington's botanical gardens and arboretums charge a nominal fee.
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Fall in Washington’s botanical gardens and arboretums is truly a feast for the senses, and with so many to choose from, you can immerse yourself in fall color all season long no matter where you are! The Washington Park Arboretum in Seattle bursts into vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows, with gorgeous spots like Azalea Way and the Japanese Garden. Over on Bainbridge Island, Bloedel Reserve’s serene landscapes and reflection ponds are perfect for soaking in the autumn magic, while Dunn Gardens and Bellevue Botanical Garden showcase stunning maple trees and seasonal splendor. With seasonal events, scenic strolls, and fantastic photo ops, these gardens are the perfect spots to embrace the fall vibe and enjoy nature’s show!
13. Take a Scenic Drive
Autumn landscape with turning highway along the Columbia River with a yellow trees on one side and a rocky mountain covered with autumn trees on the other side of the road in Columbia River Gorge
Location: Various, WA
Wow-Factor: Washington state is home to 29 scenic byways, meandering over 4,000 miles through some of the most diverse scenery in the entire country.
Need to Know: Particularly when heading up into Washington's mountain region, byways and passes may close due to weather. Early snowfall may also require drivers to use chains. Always check before heading out.
Autumn scenic drives in Washington are the perfect way to soak up those gorgeous fall vibes! Cruise along the Columbia River Gorge for jaw-dropping views of distant mountains and rocky cliffs decked out in fiery reds and golds, or head up Chinook Pass near Mount Rainier to see glowing alpine meadows and the big mountain itself. For a mix of coastal charm and fall colors, Chuckanut Drive (Washington's original scenic byway) has you covered. But don't gloss over Eastern Washington! Walla Walla's rolling wine country, Palouse Falls State Park, and Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area are just a few more fantastic places to ogle some gorgeous windshield views. Really, there's no wrong route to take, and even our state's country side roads have plenty to offer. It’s all about stunning scenery, fun road trips, and soaking in the best of Washington's fall magic!
14. Board a Fall Foliage Train Ride
Location: Various, WA
Wow-Factor: Some of the most scenic fall foliage train routes in Washington span up to 30 miles through the vibrant Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges.
Need To Know: Fall is peak season for these rail excursions, so book early to make sure you grab a spot!
Hop aboard one of Washington’s historic trains for a laid-back fall adventure! Washington's fall scenic train routes wind through positively jaw-dropping landscapes, offering front-row views of the season’s best colors without having to do anything other than sit back and relax. Expect to see a fiery palette of reds, yellows, and oranges from maples and aspens as you chug through the mountains, past rivers, and deep into forested valleys. Fall foliage train rides can be found in literally every corner of the state, making it a snap to find one near you — whether it's the classic Snoqualmie Valley Railroad, the rural beauty of the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad, or the family-friendly Chehalis-Centralia Railroad. It’s all the beauty of Washington’s fall season, with none of the hiking — perfect for anyone who just wants to kick back and soak it all in.
15. Soak in a Hot Spring
A natural pools of the Olympic Hot Sprints, deep in the Olympic Mountains
Location: Various, WA
Wow-Factor: Washington state has over 100 natural hot springs scattered across its diverse landscapes. This means that come fall, you can find everything from secluded, rustic pools in the wilderness to more developed, luxurious resort-style hot springs.
Need to Know: Many of Washington's natural hot springs are located in remote or isolated settings, so be prepared for varying levels of accessibility. Make sure to leave no trace when visiting!
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Soaking in Washington’s hot springs during fall is like the ultimate cozy escape. Imagine relaxing in warm, bubbling waters while surrounded by the vibrant hues of autumn leaves, with little other than the wind rustling to keep you company. At Sol Duc Hot Springs in Olympic National Park, you can chill in outdoor pools with stunning forest views. Goldmyer Hot Springs near North Bend offers a more secluded, nature-packed retreat that feels like a secret hideaway. If you're up for a bit of a hike, Olympic Hot Springs rewards you with natural pools and gorgeous fall scenery. And don’t miss White Pass Hot Springs near the White Pass Ski Area, where you can soak with a backdrop of Cascade Mountains and fall foliage. Whether you’re looking for spa-like luxury or a wild, natural vibe, these hot springs make for a fab autumn adventure!
Of course, there are so many other places to explore here! From epic hikes to pumpkin-spiced lattes with a side of leaf-peeping, Washington’s lengthy fall season offers something for everyone and endless itineraries. So grab your flannel, pack a thermos, and get ready to make some fabulous fall memories in the Evergreen State this autumn!
