The Ultimate Fall Colors Road Trip: Discovering the Best of Oregon’s Autumn Glory
Ah, sweet, sweet Oregon! As the summer heat fades and gives way to cooler autumn days, it’s high time to pack a cozy sweater, lace up the hiking boots and hit the road to watch the evergreen state transform into a palette of stunning fall colors.
1. Hood River
Kick things off in Hood River, the windsurfing capital of the world. Besides watching apples being harvested at Kiyokawa Family Orchards, make sure to appreciate the golden ash trees and flaming red oaks in downtown streets. Pair that with a visit to Full Sail Brewing for some locally brewed beer and spectacular riverside views.2. Mount Hood Scenic Byway
Next, take the Mount Hood Scenic Byway to the town of Government Camp. Hiking trails around Trillium Lake or Mirror Lake provide breathtaking views of Mount Hood amidst the vibrancy of fall foliage. It’s the perfect backdrop for a memorable family photo.
3. Silver Falls State Park
No fall colors road trip would be complete without visiting “the crown jewel” of the Oregon State Parks system. Take the Trail of Ten Falls and witness the amazing contrast of cascading waterfalls against the fiery hues of autumn leaves.4. Willamette Valley
Venture onward to the Willamette Valley, Oregon’s wine country. There’s nothing quite like sipping Pinot Noir at a vineyard like Brooks Winery while gazing at the surrounding vine leaves turning yellow and orange.5. Salem
In the state capital, stroll around the Salem Pioneer Cemetery, where historic tombstones sit under the canopy of maple and oak trees, painting the skyline with hues of red, orange and gold. Try a seasonal brew at Salem Ale Works to cap off the day.6. Eugene
Eugene’s Alton Baker Park has a spectacular array of fall colors. Combine that with a cycling or running trail, and it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Oregon Ducks’ games at Autzen Stadium can also give you a real taste of local culture.7. Sisters
Tiny but charming, the town of Sisters is nestled against the backdrop of the Three Sisters Mountains. Explore the Deschutes National Forest for its eclectic mix of yellow quaking aspens and fiery red vine maple.8. Bend
A pit stop at Bend is a must. Walk the Deschutes River Trail and you’ll be awed by the colorful contrast of the rippling blue river with the hues of fall. Don’t forget to grab a bite afterward at the local favorite, Deschutes Brewery.9. Medford
The Rogue Valley in Medford is a spectacular place to witness the colors of Fall. Stop by the EdenVale Winery for some exquisite wine-tasting experience amidst the autumn colors. Pear Blossom Park is another not-to-miss spot.10. Ashland
Finally, Ashland, the home of the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, offers a perfect ending to the journey. Lithia Park with its variety of trees, provides an explosion of colors during autumn. Before leaving town, catch a play and dine at the popular Larks Home Kitchen Cuisine for a hearty meal.That concludes our autumn color-studded journey through the beautiful state of Oregon. So pack up, head out, and let nature’s seasonal show sweep you off your feet! And remember, no matter where you find yourself in Oregon, there’s always something beautiful waiting to be discovered. Keep exploring, fellow Oregonians!