We’re pretty enamored with summer here in Washington… that is, until fall arrives and we remember how gorgeous our state is this time of the year. The sun is still shining, but the air is crisp and the leaves are changing colors. This is truly the most beautiful time of year to take a road trip, especially when you’re on the look out for the best fall foliage in Washington.

You’ll find colorful fall foliage in every corner of our state. But there’s nothing quite like the way the scenic North Cascade Loop looks in autumn. Follow this route to experience the best fall foliage in Washington. Washington reaches peak fall foliage in late October and early November. To get your fill of fall hues, take this road trip during that time frame. These roads get dicey (and sometimes close down) when it snows.

Google Maps
The trip begins in the beautiful Skagit Valley.
Skagit Valley, Washington 98284, USA
Dan Nevill/Flickr
From Burlington, head east on Highway 20 toward Sedro-Woolley. You're about to see some spectacular fall colors in Washington.
Stop at the North Cascades National Park and take in the beauty of the changing colors.
North Cascades National Park, Washington, USA
Sean O'Neill / Flickr
Depending on when you go, you'll see touches of orange and gold or a full eruption of fall colors on the trees. Address: Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284.
Next, spend your afternoon exploring Winthrop.
Winthrop, WA 98862, USA
Winthrop Washington Facebook
This charming mountain town is especially stunning in the fall. If you have time for a short hike in the Methow Valley, you'll love what you see. Address: Winthrop, WA, 98862.
Fall colors in Washington are truly a sight to see.
Winthrop Washington Facebook
Places like these will make you fall in love with Washington all over again.

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Finally, drive to Chelan and enjoy the beauty of the area.
Pictoscribe On The Road / Flickr
People think of Lake Chelan as a summer destination, but it's gorgeous in the fall.
Lake Chelan, Washington, USA
LaraS96 / Flickr
This is a great place to spend the night so you can enjoy the views at dusk and in the morning light.
When you're rested, get back in the car and enjoy a scenic drive to Leavenworth.
Sean O'Neill / Flickr
Leavenworth is absolutely breathtaking in the fall.
Leavenworth, WA 98826, USA
PJ Johnson / Flickr
They even celebrate the changing leaves with their annual Autumn Leaf Festival at the end of September. Address: Leavenworth, WA, 98826.
You might have a hard time leaving this area.
Kashyap Hosdurga / Flickr
When you can pry yourself away from Leavenworth, you'll take Highway 2 toward Everett to complete your loop.
The Farm at Swans Trail Facebook
Snohomish is a great place to stop and stretch your legs. In addition to all the beautiful changing trees, you'll find plenty of pumpkin patches and u-pick orchards of apples.

Ahh — isn’t fall in the Evergreen State divine? Hop in your car to discover the best fall foliage in Washington this season! And if you’re looking for more things to do this autumn, check out these seven short and sweet fall hikes in Washington.

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More to Explore

Best Fall Foliage In Washington

Elisa Regulski | August 13, 2019

What is the best time to see peak fall foliage in Washington?

Washington’s most vibrant fall foliage can be seen in October. At higher elevations, the colors will be more striking when viewed from higher elevations. Lower elevations will see more gorgeous autumn foliage in late October. 

Where are the best places in Washington to see fall foliage?

Leavenworth is an incredible place to see peak fall foliage. This town is the home of the annual Autumn Leaf Festival, and people come from all around in order to experience the fun and excitement. People also flock to Mt. Rainier National Park during the fall. This area is home to some spectacular hiking trails that are full of vibrant colors. If you don’t feel like hiking, you can also gape at these views from your windshield. Simply hit the road and venture to the Chinook Pass on State Route 410. The sights will astonish you. 

What are the best Washington hikes to take in the fall?

For a short and sweet hike, venture to the Blue Lake Trail in Stehekin. This easy hike is only 2.5 miles long, and it features a peaceful boardwalk trail. You’ll love looking at the colorful fall colors reflecting into the glimmering lakes. Another popular fall hiking destination is the Silver Star Trail in Yacolt. On clear days, you can see Mount St. Helens, Mount Hood, and Mount Adams. There’s so much beauty packed into this 4-mile hike.

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