Take A Beautiful Fall Foliage Road Trip To See Oregon Autumn Colors
Oregon is incredibly beautiful this time of year, when fall colors transform the scenery and golden leaves shimmer in the crisp Autumn breeze. One of the best ways to experience fall in Oregon is by taking an unforgettable road trip. That’s why I put together this amazing road trip itinerary that will lead you to the best fall foliage in Oregon (which includes waterfalls, forests, mountain views, and more).
According to the Oregon Fall Foliage blog, mid to late October is the prime time for fall colors. Be sure to mark your calendars! It’s going to be amazing.
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The trip kicks off in Portland, where there's plenty of beautiful fall foliage to be found. Perhaps the most spectacular display is at the beautiful Garden in Washington Park. This stunning, authentic garden is especially beautiful in the autumn, when the plants and trees are alight with fiery fall colors. The Portland Japanese Garden has some spectacular fall colors in Oregon. Address: 611 Southwest Kingston Avenue, Portland, OR 97205.
Next, you'll make your way to the beautiful Historic Columbia River Highway.
Leaving Portland, you'll hop on the I-84 and take exit 22 for the Historic Columbia River Highway. This beautiful road winds through the colorful landscape parallel to the stunning Columbia River. Take this part of the drive slow, so you can soak in the amazing sights. Pull over at the Portland Women's Forum Lookout and the Crown Point Vista House (both pictured below) for incredible, expansive views.
There's no shortage of things to do in fall in Oregon. While you're in the area, escape to the Portland Women's Forum. This place is especially lovely during Oregon's peak fall foliage.
Watch the leaves change color from the Crown Point Vista House. Here, you'll be met with unimaginable beauty. Address: 40700 Historic Columbia River Highway, Corbett, OR 97019.
This incredible Oregon landmark is absolutely breathtaking. This graceful cascade is one of the tallest in the country, and it's especially beautiful in fall when it's rimmed with lovely auburn foliage. If you'd like to get out and stretch your legs, there are many amazing options for hikes in the area. You can also stop in for a meal or pick up some souvenirs at the historic Multnomah Falls Lodge. Address: Multnomah Falls Lodge, 3000 E Historic Columbia River Highway, Bridal Veil, OR 97010.
After winding past the countless spectacular waterfalls of the Gorge, you'll arrive in the beautiful riverside town of Hood River. Here you'll find a charming downtown district, lovely views, bucolic farmland, and more. This wonderful town is a great place to stop in for a meal or stay overnight if you plan on stretching your trip out over multiple days. Address: Hood River, OR, 97031
When you leave Hood River, hop on Route 35 and take it all the way to highway 26, aka the Mount Hood Scenic Byway. This wonderful drive will lead you past gorgeous farmland and colorful forests with jaw-dropping views of Mt Hood.
Last but not least, make a stop at the amazing Silver Falls State Park.
Your next and final stop will be the incredible Silver Falls State Park. This beautiful state park is full of lush fall foliage, great hiking trails, and some of the most beautiful waterfalls in state. The most spectacular hike here is the epic Trail of Ten Falls, which leads you through the forest past 10 gorgeous waterfalls. The majestic waterfalls - plus the vibrant foliage - will simply blow you away. Address: 20024 Silver Falls Highway Southeast, Sublimity, OR 97385.
What is the best time to see peak fall foliage in Oregon?
Oregon’s best fall foliage can be viewed in mid to late October. However, these dates can vary depending on the location. When exploring this state’s magnificent fall foliage, it’s best to plan ahead. The most dazzling colors occur right before Halloween.
Where are the best places in Oregon to see fall foliage?
Mt. Hood Scenic Loop is a 146-mile drive that takes you along the most remarkable fall foliage in Oregon. Take your time driving along this breathtaking route and soak up the sights along the Columbia River Gorge and the Hood River. The views along the McKenzie River also offer whimsical autumn scenery. This river runs from Clear Lake to Eugene, and it’s jam-packed with pretty crimson colors. People also love riding their bikes along the Deschutes River Trail. You’ll find this adventurous scenic route in Central Oregon. It runs from the Meadow Day Use Area all the way to Benham Falls.
What are the best Oregon hikes to take in the fall?
The Three Sisters Wilderness Trail, located in the Wickiup Plains area, is an underrated hidden gem that’s full of breathtaking autumn foliage. Come here when you really want to get away from it all. The Peter Skene Odgen Trail, located in La Pine, is another amazing place for fall hiking. This eight-mile trail offers wonderful visions of Paulina Falls and Paulina Peak. When the vibrant autumn colors paint the landscape, the sights are positively awe-inspiring
