The 10 Best Oregon Towns for a Breathtaking Fall Colors Road Trip
As Oregonians, we are blessed to be surrounded by breathtaking landscapes that change dramatically with each season. Autumn offers a particular grandeur, transforming our forests into a kaleidoscopic canvas of vibrant oranges, warm yellows, and vivid reds. So pack a bag, a camera, and your enthusiasm – there’s a fall colors road trip awaiting right within our borders. Here are the 10 best Oregon towns you should visit to catch these stunning hues:
1. Hood River
Nestled in the Columbia River Gorge, Hood River boasts breathtaking panoramic views of the gorge itself, infused with autumnal hues. Drive through Historic Columbia River Highway, but don’t forget to stop at the Panorama Point and breathe in the magnificent view. Hood River is also known for its fruit orchards. Visit Rasmussen Farms to try some juicy, autumn-fresh pears.2. Ashland
Home to the renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Ashland picks up a dramatic leaf-strewn stage for the fall. Lithia Park, along Ashland Creek, offers a colorful bed of leaves for a relaxing stroll. It’s beautifully lined with maple, oak, and ash trees showcasing their lovely tones come fall.
3. Portland
Portland needs no introduction. Known for its eco-friendliness, its parks are a riot of colors in fall. Washington Park, with its Hoyt Arboretum, showcases trees from around the globe in their full autumn splendor. Make sure to visit Powell’s City of Books too, the coziness is perfect for fall.4. Sisters
With the gorgeous backdrop of the Three Sisters Peaks, this quaint town is filled with charming boutiques and locally-owned restaurants. Pair the fall foliage with a trip to Sisters Coffee Company, where you can warm up with a cup of local Oregon brew.5. McMinville
Home to the Evergreen Aviation Museum, this wine country town is surrounded by vineyards that turn a stunning gold in the fall. Attend the hearty Wine Harvest Festival, a local Oregon tradition to truly savor the essence of the season.6. Silverton
Silverton is a treasure trove of historic charm. The Silver Falls State Park offers a colorful display as the leaves start to change. Imagine tracing the Trail of Ten Falls encased in a multitude of hues – it’s time to experience autumn the Oregonian way!7. Eugene
The Willamette River, skirting around Eugene, mirrors autumn’s brilliance in its placid waters. Eugene’s Alton Baker Park is another great spot for fall colors, with 400 acres of foliage-filled beauty. Don’t miss out on the covered bridges, they are a sight to behold in autumn.8. Bend
This outdoor lover’s paradise doesn’t disappoint in autumn. The Deschutes River Trail, with its trees erupting in a riot of colors and Mirror Pond, are perfect spots to soak in the beauty of the season. Drop by at the local Deschutes Brewery for a taste of their seasonal brews.9. Astoria
Located at the mouth of the Columbia River, Astoria blends maritime charm with autumn hues, making for a unique fall spectacle. Take in the view from the Astoria Column, and on clear days, see if you can spot the imprints of fall on the Pacific Ocean’s distant shores.10. Salem
The capital city of Oregon, Salem, is surrounded by tree-lined streets and beautiful parks which add significantly to autumn’s charm. Take a stroll in Bush’s Pasture Park, and you’ll find the very essence of autumn captured amidst the park’s historic buildings and beautiful herb gardens.So, there you have it! Pack up those pumpkin lattes, put on your cozy sweaters, and set off on the perfect autumn road trip. Trek through our magnificent state decked in dazzling fall hues, and let Oregon’s autumn colors move your soul, proving once again that there’s truly no place like home.