While you might not immediately think of autumn leaves when you think of our region, you can definitely find them if you know where to look! Seasonal colors mostly exist outside of the major cities, so when you’re ready to find some photo-worthy hues, head to Jackson Lake with your mountain bike to see some gorgeous fall foliage in Southern California.
Found in Angeles National Forest, Jackson Lake to Vincent’s Cabin is a moderately challenging 9-mile trail that will bring plenty of smiles to your face along the way. The lake itself is the final destination and it is certainly a beautiful one!
The path to get to the lake is just as striking as the water area itself. You’ll have the chance to see brilliant fall colors like bright yellow blanketing the trees on the trail.
Make sure you take a second to look up so you can see the amazing picture of the colors against the nearly-always bright blue sky. Now there’s an incredible photo to take.
You’ll even get to ride through a tunnel of trees and be truly surrounded by the season on this path. This is a special experience that you definitely don’t get to have every day!
When you reach the lake, you’ll definitely want to take some time to sit down and relax after your big ride, and the grassy areas right by the water are the perfect place for a picnic lunch. You’ll be so glad you brought it with you as you relax in the tranquil atmosphere.
There are even picnic tables you can sit at if you like to lay out your spread that way. You’ll feel like the trees are looking after you while you eat and take in your naturally beautiful surroundings.
On your way back, you’ll want to absorb all the little details you might have missed on the way to the lake and you’ll be so glad you did. Have you had the chance to take this amazing ride and experience the classic fall colors in SoCal? Let us know about your journey in the comments!
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.
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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.
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.
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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.
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.
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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.
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.
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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!
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?
