Best Oregon Towns for a Brilliant Fall Colors Road Trip
Autumn in Oregon promises a vivid display of colors as the leaves on trees begin to transform into vibrant shades of orange, red, and yellow. From quiet coastal towns to bustling cities, this state delivers an unparalleled fall road trip experience replete with crisp autumn air, stunning landscapes, and charming towns.1. Hood River
Known for its picturesque fruit orchards, Hood River in the Columbia River Gorge offers an unforgettable fall color experience. When you’ve snapped your fill of the stunning foliage, visit the family-owned Rasmussen Farms for a treasure trove of autumn bounty – pumpkins, corn, and cider!2. Ashland
Ashland in Southern Oregon, famous for its annual Shakespeare Festival, also stands out for its fall display. Engage in a peaceful hike along the Ashland Creek through Lithia Park to behold the city’s grandeur in full fall bloom. Try to time your visit around the end of October for the local “Fright Night” for some festive fun.3. Bend
Nestled in Central Oregon, Bend offers mesmerizing fall hues against the dramatic backdrop of the snow-capped Cascades. The Deschutes River Trail provides an ideal path to soak in the fiery colors while the Old Mill District offers cozy spots to sip on local brews.
4. Eugene
In the heart of the Willamette Valley, Eugene’s vivid maple trees set the town ablaze with color. Enjoy cycling on the Ruth Bascom Riverbank Path System and don’t miss a fall football game at the University of Oregon, a favorite local tradition.5. Silverton
Enveloped by farmland and vineyards, Silverton is a charming small town with big autumn appeal. The highlight is Oregon Garden, boasting groves of maples and oaks. After exploring, unwind at the wooden-floored Silver Creek Coffee House – loved by every local.6. Grants Pass
Grants Pass, located along the scenic Rogue River, boasts deciduous trees that pepper the landscape with vibrant shades. Visit Hellgate Jetboat Excursions for a river adventure with fall colors mirrored off the water surface as an added bonus.7. Corvallis
Home to Oregon State University, Corvallis is packed with college-town charm and beautiful spots for leaf peeping. Take a moment to stroll through the OSU campus or venture out into the city’s multiple nature parks.8. Carlton
An essential stop on any wine-lovers road trip, Carlton in Yamhill County stages a fantastic fall show. Celebrate the harvest at one of over 40 wineries, such as Ken Wright Cellars, with the brilliant fall landscape as your backdrop.9. Oregon City
Just a short drive from Portland, Oregon City showcases one of the most iconic cascades on the Willamette River, the Willamette Falls. View this natural wonder surrounded by fall colors from the city’s new Riverwalk.10. Sisters
This quaint mountain town located in the heart of Central Oregon is spectacular in the fall. Take a stroll down Cascade Avenue where Big Leaf Maple trees create a corridor of color.Here ends a fall foliage journey to behold. Pay these charming Oregon towns a visit, breathe in that crisp autumn air, and enjoy not just the destination, but the journey brightened by Mother Nature’s color palette. Pack some flannel and a camera, cause Oregon’s fall season is something you won’t want to forget!