Here Are the Best Times and Places To View Southern California’s Fall Foliage in 2025

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? By early October, you will start to see some colors change near the California and Nevada state line. While still patchy in this area of the state early in the month, by the middle of October, this area will truly start to show off its seasonal colors.

If I had to pick one place as Southern California’s fall town, it would be Oak Glen. This community is 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. And for the best fall foliage experience in Oak Glen, and the rest of San Bernardino County, aim to visit near the end of October and early November.

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. And 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.

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 during the first half of November. However, don't wait too long because by the middle of November, the fall foliage throughout Southern California will be past its peak.

Los Angeles County is another destination where you'll have to wait just a little longer to enjoy fall's splendid show. Fall foliage is expected to appear in late October and reach peak color around the first or second week of November.

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.

By the middle of November, 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?

Yes, Southern California may not be known for its vibrant fall colors, but it doesn't mean you won't find the vibrant leaves throughout our gorgeous corner of the state. This time of the year is beautiful—get outside and enjoy it!

If you are looking for even more travel inspiration this autumn in SoCal, plan a visit to one of these charming mountain towns before the season ends. And make sure to check out our list featuring several of our favorite things to do in the fall in Southern California.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own autumn getaway using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.