Don’t Miss These 11 Places to See Gorgeous Fall Foliage in Nevada

While the natural scenery from the desert to the lakes is beautiful any time of year, there's nothing more stunning than fall in Nevada. The weather is delightful, and the pumpkin-spiced lattes are plentiful. Best of all, the fall foliage turns into hues of oranges, yellows, golds, and reds. It's as if the aspens, oaks, maples, and cottonwoods are all dressed up for a special occasion — and you're invited to watch. Here are 11 places where you can see the colorful autumn show without even leaving the state.

1. Lamoille Canyon, Wells

Tucked in the Ruby Mountains, Lamoille Canyon abounds with a wide range of fall colors in Nevada. Take the drive along the 12-mile Lamoille Canyon Scenic Byway or venture into the canyon for a closer view. The scenic byway is typically open between May and October, but watch for closures due to inclement weather.

2. Great Basin National Park

Known for its groves of ancient bristlecone pines and Lehman Caves, Great Basin National Park is a treasure trove in the fall in Nevada. A great way to enjoy the fall foliage is by taking the 12-mile Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive, which leads to an elevation of over 10,000 feet. Just imagine the views you'll have!

3. Mt. Rose Scenic Byway, Reno

Mt. Rose Highway (Nevada State Route 431) rises from the foothills to pass through the colorful Tahoe Meadows, then descends through pine forests before it joins the Lake Tahoe National Scenic Byway (Highway 28) at Incline Village. Could this be the best scenic drive in Nevada this fall?

4. Lake Tahoe National Scenic Byway

Drive south on Highway 28 for non-stop shades of autumn in Nevada. If you feel like getting out of the car, take a walk through the trees on a path at Spooner Lake or take a moderate hike up to Marlette Lake. For more information about this gorgeous drive, visit the National Scenic Byway Foundation website.

5. Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, Amargosa Valley

The ash trees at this national wildlife refuge turn orange and gold in the fall as the birds begin to fly South for the winter. The weather is beautiful, the wildlife is plentiful, and the scenery incredible.

6. Bowers Mansion Regional Park, Washoe Valley

Enjoy the fall-colored tall trees and expansive lawn on a picnic at Bowers Mansion Regional Park. Located on the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada mountains, this historic mansion sits surrounded by color, highlighting the best of fall in Nevada.

7. Ruby Lake Wildlife Refuge, Ruby Valley

An oasis for birds and wildlife, this remote refuge of over 40,000 acres is filled with mustard-yellow, gold, and lemon-yellow aspen and willow leaves, rabbitbrush blooms, and wildflowers during the fall. Visit the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service website for more on Ruby Lake Wildlife Refuge.

8. Carson River, Dayton

Named for expedition guide Kit Carson, the Carson River traverses five counties. In autumn, it is surrounded by the gorgeous colors of fall — shades of red, yellow, and orange — making it a picture-perfect place to be during fall in Nevada.

9. Floyd Lamb State Park, Las Vegas

This is a wonderful park for fishing, walking among the cottonwoods, picnicking, or simply relaxing. This lush land is an oasis in the Mojave Desert. It is centered around Tule Springs, which is comprised of four lakes. It's almost hard to believe that a place like this exists so close to the Vegas Strip!

10. Spring Mountain National Recreation Area, Las Vegas

The Spring Mountain National Recreation Area includes Mount Charleston. Take a hike with the whole family through the multi-colored trees. Your kids will love grabbing a few leaves as a souvenir. It's one of the best places to spend autumn in Nevada! Discover more on the U.S. Forest Service website.

11. Reno Riverwalk District, Reno

Take a leisurely stroll along the Truckee River in the Reno Riverwalk District. Grab a cup of coffee at a nearby cafe (pumpkin spice, of course) and take in the beautiful hues by the waterfront to celebrate fall in Nevada.

Photos don't really do justice to the gorgeous fall in Nevada, do they? Which of these places have you visited during the fall? For some more fall colors, take this dreamy road trip in Nevada. Also, consider reserving a cozy vacation rental for the night or weekend.