Fall in Northern California is a magical time when the landscape transforms into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. In this blog post, we’ll explore the best fall destinations in Northern California, each offering unique experiences and stunning scenery.
Always Plan Ahead to Catch the Peak Colors
It is so important to do some research beforehand so that you know exactly when to go. Fall colors appear and disappear so quickly.
The website California Fall Color is an amazing resource if you live in California and are on a hunt to see fall colors. They provide up-to-date information on the best spots for fall foliage in California.
Best Fall Destinations in California
Yosemite National Park
October in Yosemite National Park is by far my favorite month to visit the park. There are less crowds, great weather, and access to the entire park. Generally it’s beautiful and quiet, hotel rates are down too so that’s a plus. Last year we went in early November and the colors were at its peak.
- Distance from San Francisco: Approximately 4 hour drive
- Things to See and Do:
- Vernal Falls waterfall is even more breathtaking in autumn when the surrounding leaves are ablaze with color.
- Take a scenic drive through the valley and admire the towering granite cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
- The panoramic views of Half Dome, Yosemite Valley, and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains are super pretty during autumn with its warm golden colors
- There are numerous hiking trails that offer stunning fall foliage views, such as the Sentinel Dome Trail and the Mist Trail
Related Reads: 7 Perfect Fall Road Trips for Ultimate Fall Vibes in California
Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe, a stunning alpine lake nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains, offers breathtaking scenery and a variety of outdoor activities. In the fall, the surrounding forests burst into a kaleidoscope of colors, creating a picturesque backdrop for your adventures.
- Distance from San Francisco: Approximately 4 hour drive
- Things to See and Do:
- Emerald Bay State Park is so pretty in the fall, a stunning turquoise lake surrounded by colorful fall foliage.
- A scenic boat tour of Lake Tahoe, is worth it for its breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
- The north shore of Lake Tahoe is known for its charming towns, boutique shops, and gourmet restaurants.
- Explore the area’s scenic bike trails and admire the changing colors of the leaves
- After a hike, eat your way through Heavenly Village, grab some cookies at Great American Cookies
Mendocino Coast
The Mendocino Coast is a rugged and beautiful region known for its dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and charming coastal towns. In the fall, the coastal forests are ablaze with color, creating a stunning backdrop for your coastal adventures.
- Distance from San Francisco: Approximately 3.5 hour drive
- Things to See and Do:
- Hike the Mendocino Headlands State Park
- Go Whale Watching and spot whales, dolphins, and other marine life off the coast of Mendocino.
- Explore the Mendocino Bay by kayak and discover hidden coves and beaches
Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley
Napa Valley has stunning fall foliage and a variety of other activities. From hiking and biking to hot air balloon rides, there’s something for everyone in this picturesque region.In the fall, the vineyards are ablaze with color, creating a picturesque backdrop everywhere you go.
- Distance from San Francisco: Approximately 2.5 hour drive
- Things to See and Do:
- Admire the beautiful gardens and enjoy the fall colors at Napa Valley Botanical Gardens
- Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride and soar above the vineyards and enjoy panoramic views of the valley.
- Enjoy scenic hikes through Sonoma Valley State Park. There rolling hills and vineyards are super pretty to hike through
- Sample delicious cheeses at one of the many cheesemakers in the area
June Lake
October is by far my favorite season in Mammoth (unless it’s smoky from nearby wildfires). Leaf peeping is always fun. June Lake, Lake Lundy and the Aspendell area above Bishop are awesome for seeing the gorgeous fall colors.
Drive over Tioga or Sonora Pass and you will be amazed by all the colors that bloom. The June Lake Loop is a scenic drive through the Sierra Nevada mountains, offering stunning views of lakes, forests, and snow-capped peaks.
- Distance from San Francisco: Approximately 5 hour drive
- Things to See and Do:
- Explore the unique ecosystem of Mono Lake and its tufa formations.
- Drive the scenic June Lake Loop and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.
- Do yourself a favor and visit Lundy lake and Lundy canyon. The colors are out of this world. Bonus points if you have a 4X4. The trails are mostly empty and you can head to nearly anyplace and enjoy peace and quiet
- Paddle board or kayak on on of the lakes
- Try your luck at fishing for trout in one of the June Lakes.
- Experience the beauty of the Sierra Nevada by camping in one of the many campgrounds along the June Lake Loop.
- Soak in one Mammoth lakes Hot Springs
Related Reads: Extraordinary Road Trip from San Francisco to Mammoth Lakes
Lassen Volcanic National Park
Lassen Volcanic National Park is like a smaller Yellowstone with some missing pieces, but so much beauty with little crowds compared to other California parks. We try to go to Lassen every year with we love it. It’s an underrated gem. It’s also a great time to go in the fall because the weather is much cooler.
- Distance from San Francisco: Approximately 4 hour drive
- Things to See and Do:
- Have a picnic at Manzanita Lake, a sapphire gem surrounded by towering pines, provides the perfect picnic spot. We chomped on our BLT sandwiches, surrounded by the beauty
- Embark on the CInder Cone Hike.We Did the Cinder Cone hike in October at sunrise and was the only one there. One of the most peaceful hikes I’ve ever done
- Hike Bumpass Hell , a short but fascinating hike leads us to a geothermal wonderland of bubbling mud pots, hissing fumaroles, and sulfurous steam.
Grass Valley
Grass Valley is gaining quite a bit of attraction. It is a super charming historic town nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Known for its Victorian architecture, gold mining history, and beautiful fall foliage, Grass Valley offers a unique and relaxing getaway.
- Distance from San Francisco: Approximately 3 hour drive
- Things to See and Do:
- Take the Nevada City and Grass Valley Fall Colors Tour while enjoying all of the great things the town has to offer
- Pick up a to-go picnic at one of our local restaurants or farmers markets, find a good spot, and enjoy the splendor of autumn. You can download the fall foliage map here.
- Walk on the Angkula Keo Suspension Bridge to see fall foliage over a bridge
- Or visit the Bridgeport long covered bridge, with the South Yuba river flowing underneath. It was super cool to walk across this piece of history listening to the river flow along underneath you.
- Go to the river at any of the crossings, hoyts, Edwards, Purdon. Hike and take a swim, even if it’s a polar plunge.
- If there’s no snow go to Bowman Lake Road and hike up there! Very beautiful
