Best Oregon Towns for a Fall Colors Road Trip

Oregon in the fall is a spectacle of nature, a canvas of impressive colors from vibrant shades of red and orange to subtle hues of yellow and brown. The rivers mirror these colors while setting a stark contrast with their calm blue waters. It’s a time when every twist and turn on the Oregon highways reveal a new picturesque landscape. So, grab a cup of locally brewed coffee, clear your schedules, and take a road trip to see the breathtaking Oregon fall foliage.

1. Hood River

Start your trip in Hood River, the proud holder of the “fall foliage capital” title in Oregon. Don’t forget to meander through the Hood River County Fruit Loop, showcasing 35 miles of apple and pear orchards warm with fall colors. The local cider is a must-try!

2. Ashland

Next, head down to Ashland. Showcased by the sublime backdrop of fall-tinged Siskiyou and Cascade Ranges, driving through this cultural hub in Oregon is a real treat. Visit the Lithia Park for unforgettable autumn vistas.

3. Bend

Known for its locally brewed craft beers, Bend in Central Oregon also takes pride in its stunning fall colors. Walking through the Deschutes River Trail, with the river on one side and the flame-colored trees on the other, feels like stepping into a painting.

4. Eugene

A city teeming with students lends a special life to the fall season. Eugene’s University of Oregon campus with rows of heritage buildings set amid old trees dressed in colorful robes of fall is a snapshot straight out of a postcard.

5. Estacada

Driving along the Clackamas River in Estacada during fall is something Oregonians always vouch for. The river rafting may be a summer activity, but a fall drive is equally adventurous, with nature putting on a fabulous color show.

6. Salem

Salem, Oregon’s capital, is home to the historic Bush’s Pasture Park. The park becomes a fall festival of colors, with trees dating back over a century flaunting their magnificent autumn hues.

7. Silverton

In Silverton, a drive down the Silver Falls State Park is a must for fall foliage enthusiasts. Hidden within the park, the South Falls offer a beautiful contrast with the surrounding fiery foliage.

8. Grants Pass

Visitors in fall are greeted with the beautiful orange and red vine maple along the Rogue River in Grants Pass. The Hellgate Jetboat Excursions give you a close-up view of these colors reflected in the crystal clear waters.

9. Sisters

This quaint little city celebrates fall with its iconic Sisters Fall Street Festival. The McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass loop is one of the most scenic drives, especially during fall, with an explosion of colors set against snow-covered mountain peaks.

10. Portland

No fall color trip in Oregon can be complete without a stop in Portland. The tree-lined streets in the old neighborhoods, or a stroll in the picturesque Japanese Garden, present a visual symphony that marks a perfect end to your fall colors road trip.

Remember, the purpose of the journey is to lose oneself in the breathtaking beauty of Oregon’s diverse landscapes. So next time Mother Nature dons her fall colors, pack a picnic, hop in the car, and explore these splendid towns that offer an Oregon autumn experience like no other. May your journey be filled with unforgettable hues and the warming aroma of fall. Happy road-tripping, Oregon!