Discovering Fall Foliage: Pacific Northwest

Bordered by the Pacific Ocean and the Cascade Mountains, the Pacific Northwest encompasses the states of Washington, Oregon, California, Idaho and Alaska. This region of the Unites States is known for outdoor adventure, which is no wonder when you consider its lush forests (home to some of the largest trees in the world), dramatic coastline, and breathtaking mountain ranges. 

Much of the Pacific Northwest has a cool, wet climate. However, there are also coastal, or temperate, rainforests in parts of the area, as well as dry and warm inland sections. Fall tends to be a bit dramatic, with a sudden transition from mild summer weather, to severe, unpredictable winter conditions. Early fall storms may bring cold heavy rain or several feet of snow. One storm could create enough snow and ice to make trails and backcountry conditions dangerous and impassable. Temperatures during this time range from highs in the 40s-70s and lows in the 30s-50s. 

Due to the unpredictable weather this time of year, the exact date in which leaves are expected to change color is hard to predict. However, you can generally expect to see bright yellow, red and orange leaves from mid-September to late-October. Maple, larch and aspen trees provide fall color in the region; and because they are usually intermingled with evergreens, the foliage in the area is rich and varied.

If you’re planning a trip to the Pacific Northwest this fall, take a ride on the rails at Mount Rainier, go apple picking in Wenatchee (the self-proclaimed apple capital of the world), or check out the Autumn Leaf Festival in Leavenworth, a Bavarian-style town just east of the Cascades. Or, you could even plan a road trip to all of the top places to view stunning fall foliage in the Pacific Northwest!