15 of the Best Fall Destinations in California
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1. Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is a must-see destination in the fall. Your autumn adventure could include witnessing the majesty of Bridalveil Fall, although this cascade is often a seasonal spectacle and might be quieter in the latter part of the year.
The Valley Loop Trail offers a front-row view of the changing foliage, and it’s flexible; you can explore a smaller section or take on the entire 20-mile journey. The park’s popularity does dip in the fall months, so you can enjoy its wonders more leisurely than during the busy summer.
2. Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is the perfect spot for those who appreciate nature’s seasonal shifts. Hike on the Mount Rose Meadows Trail early in October and be among the first to witness the changing leaves. You can take in the spectacular views of Lake Tahoe as well as the surrounding cities from high vantage points.
Don’t miss the breathtaking fall foliage in Hope Valley, just a short distance from the south of Lake Tahoe. It’s an idyllic spot for a leisurely hike or a peaceful stay at one of the cozy nearby resorts.
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3. Napa Valley
Autumn in Napa Valley is a season of vibrant colors and mild temperatures, inviting you to explore its natural beauty and world-class vineyards. Your fall adventure here isn’t complete without a walk through the changing vines along the Silverado Trail or Highway 29.
Revel in the warmth of a sunny afternoon before the cool evening sets in, perfect for a cozy wine tasting. The hills east and west of the valley are home to trails offering stunning views, with Bothe-Napa Valley State Park being a highlight for a hike among forests tinged with fall hues.
4. Big Sur
Big Sur enchants with its dramatic coastline and awe-inspiring views. In the fall, the crisp air and vibrant foliage create a perfect setting for exploring. The Bixby Creek Bridge, with its iconic architecture, is a must-see as you drive through this slice of paradise.
Feel the refreshing sea breeze while spotting the majestic elephant seals lounging on the beaches near San Simeon. Take a peaceful hike through the redwoods or stunning photos by the ocean.
5. Mammoth Lakes
Mammoth Lakes is a little mountain town that transforms into a spectacular canvas in the fall. The moment you set foot on McGee Canyon Trail, you’ll understand why fall is special here. Choose a short trek or the full 14-mile stretch, either way, the cascading colors of autumn are a delight.
Rainbow Falls, a 101-foot cascade in the San Joaquin River, becomes a painter’s palette as mist creates rainbows under the sunlight. Remember to pack your camera; you won’t want to miss the shot when the sun and spray play off each other, creating natural art.
Adventurers and serenity-seekers alike will treasure the trip to Devil’s Postpile. This fascinating structure of columnar basalt is a sight you’ll marvel at, standing as a reminder of nature’s magnificence.
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6. Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park with its iconic, spiky trees reaching for blue skies, is the perfect fall destination. Chilly mornings make hiking a true pleasure. You can start on the easy Arch Rock Trail, a 1.8-mile journey that reveals unique rock formations and allows for some rock scrambling fun.
Or you might walk the flat, 0.25-mile Cholla Cactus Garden Nature Trail amidst a forest of teddybear cholla. Fall’s mild weather also invites you to linger under the stars. After all, Joshua Tree is a renowned spot for stargazing.
7. Monterey
With milder crowds and great weather, fall is the perfect time to explore the natural beauty and outdoor activities of Monterey. You can wander the historical streets where artists found inspiration and American history was made.
The Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail offers breathtaking views along what used to be railroad tracks. Delight your senses with the culinary specials of the season, and don’t miss the historical charm of Cannery Row, which once hummed with sardine canning factories.
8. Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara shines as a top autumn destination with its coastal charm and festive events. In the fall, the Santa Barbara Zoo transforms into a great family destination with Boo at the Zoo, offering trick-or-treating and joyful activities in late October.
As the nights get cooler, ZooLights begins in mid-November, lighting up the area with enchanting lanterns. For a peaceful activity, join the locals at a beachside yoga class or explore the vibrant displays of nature on a guided Bird Walk at the Botanic Garden.
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9. Julian
Julian, nestled in the mountains of Southern California, is a delightful locale for a fall excursion. You can indulge in the town’s famous apple pies, a treat synonymous with Julian’s harvest season.
The crisp air and rural ambiance set the stage for memorable weekend getaways, including leisurely walks through apple orchards ripe for the picking. Embrace the charm of this small town by exploring its historic sites and local craft shops.
10. Sonoma
In the fall, Sonoma’s vineyards turn a vibrant range of reds, oranges, and yellows, making the scenery pop with color. Take a leisurely drive or join a wine tour to sip the season’s flavors as you gaze out over the patchwork hills.
North Sonoma Mountain Regional Park is a must-visit, where you can hike among oaks and bays, with panoramic views of the fall foliage. Enjoy the slower pace of Sonoma and relish the crisp air and fine wine this fall.
11. Muir Woods National Monument
If you’re craving a peaceful escape into nature, Muir Woods National Monument is your autumn destination. Towering redwoods reach towards the sky, creating a serene and majestic atmosphere. With fewer visitors and a gentle climate, your stroll among these ancient giants is both tranquil and invigorating.
Find yourself surrounded by the vibrant hues of autumn leaves as you traverse paths like the Main Trail to Hillside Trail Loop. This easy two-mile hike is a lovely way to savor the most breathtaking redwood groves.
For a more adventurous outing, consider the 6.1-mile trek on the Bootjack Trail to Ben Johnson Loop, offering more challenging terrain and splendid views.
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12. Death Valley National Park
As summer heat waves subside, Death Valley National Park invites you for cooler autumn adventures. With breathtaking views from Dante’s View, feel the vastness of the landscape that unfurls before you. Your eyes can wander past shimmering salt flats, towering peaks, and the contrasting colors of the desert palette.
Sunset at Racetrack Playa offers a spectacle of shadows and light against a canvas of mysterious, traveling rocks. Capture this natural wonder with your camera as the day’s last rays play over the cracked earth.
At night, look up to be awestruck by a sky sprinkled with stars; Death Valley’s Dark Sky status ensures some of the clearest night skies for stargazing.
13. Apple Hill
Fall in California isn’t complete without a trip to Apple Hill. It’s a place where the air is filled with the aroma of ripe apples and freshly baked pies. Amidst the rolling hills, Apple Hill is a patchwork of orchards, wineries, and bakeries that come to life each autumn.
Your autumn adventure isn’t complete without tasting the apple cider donuts at Boa Vista Orchards or sipping on a variety of hard ciders. The crisp mountain air is perfect for apple picking, and nothing beats the satisfaction of choosing your own fresh apples right from the trees.
14. San Luis Obispo
Fall in San Luis Obispo is a season full of vibrant color and cozy vibes. Explore the rustic charm of Avila Valley Barn, where you can pick apples straight from the tree and find the perfect pumpkin for Halloween.
If you’re curious about the past, the History Center of San Luis Obispo County offers a peek into local lore, all in the setting of a beautifully preserved former library. There’s even more to discover with events like the Harvestly Harvest Fest, where community and celebration come together with live music and fun activities for kids.
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15. Santa Ynez Valley
The Santa Ynez Valley is a gem hidden in California. With an event like the Taste of the Santa Ynez Valley, your autumn adventure is filled with delicious foods, exquisite wines, and local festivities that showcase the region’s culture and bounty.
Sip on locally-produced wines or absorb the history that each unique spot preserves. Your fall trip is set against the backdrop of golden vineyards and crisp, clear skies, the perfect setting for making warm memories this fall.
