PACIFIC
Uncovering the best foliage information, destinations, adventures, and activities in the Pacific
PACIFIC FOLIAGE DISCOVERY CENTER
Discover when and where to see the Pacific’s Top Foliage Destinations
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Peak Foliage Key
- Late September
- Early October
- Mid October
- Late October
- Early-Mid November
- Mid-Late November
2024 Pacific Foliage Tracker
2024 Pacific Fall Forecast
The Pacific region offers a diverse range of fall experiences, from early foliage in Alaska to tropical transitions in Hawaii:
Alaska
- Late August to Early September: Peak colors in interior and northern regions
- Mid-September: Peak colors in southcentral and southeastern areas
- Notable for having the earliest fall foliage in the country due to its northern latitude and colder temperatures
Pacific Northwest (Washington, Oregon)
- Mid-September to Mid-October: Peak colors in higher elevations (Cascade Mountains)
- Late October to Early November: Peak colors in lower elevations and coastal areas
California
- Mid-October to Mid-November: Fall colors in the Sierra Nevada and other mountainous regions
- November to December: Autumn hues in wine country and some urban areas
Hawaii
- Year-round tropical climate with subtle seasonal changes
- September to November: Slightly cooler temperatures and decreased rainfall marking the Hawaiian "fall"
This wide range of fall experiences across the Pacific region offers opportunities for leaf-peeping from late August in Alaska through December in parts of California.
Regional Flora Diversity
The Pacific region's fall experience is characterized by its diverse flora across different climates:
Alaska
- Dwarf Birch: Bright yellows and oranges
- Quaking Aspen: Golden yellows
- Willow: Yellows and russets
- Fireweed: Vibrant reds (leaves and stems)
Pacific Northwest
- Bigleaf Maples: Bright yellows
- Vine Maples: Vibrant reds and oranges
- Western Larch: Golden yellows (deciduous conifer)
- Red Alders: Subtle yellows
California
- Black Oaks: Deep reds and browns
- Quaking Aspens: Golden yellows (in mountainous areas)
- Grapevines: Vibrant reds and golds in wine regions
- Liquidambars: Varied hues in urban landscapes
Hawaii
- Rainbow Shower Trees: Seasonal flowering
- Koaia: Subtle leaf changes
- Macadamia: New growth providing color variations
This diversity creates a unique tapestry of fall experiences across the region, from dramatic color changes in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest to subtle tropical transitions in Hawaii.
Unique Regional Features
The Pacific region offers a spectrum of fall experiences, from traditional to non-traditional:
Alaska: Early and Intense Fall Colors
- Earliest fall foliage in the U.S., often starting in August
- Northern Lights viewing opportunities increase as nights lengthen
- Tundra landscapes offer unique fall color patterns
- Wildlife viewing as animals prepare for winter
Pacific Northwest: Traditional Fall with a Coastal Twist
- Vibrant foliage similar to the Northeast, but with unique Pacific species
- Misty, atmospheric conditions adding to the autumn ambiance
- Whale watching opportunities during fall migrations
- Kombuchatober in Seattle, a unique fall beverage celebration
California: Blend of Traditional and Non-Traditional
- Classic fall colors in mountainous areas and certain forests
- Unique wine country harvest experiences
- Coastal areas with extended summer-like conditions
- Fall surfing with optimal wave conditions
Hawaii: Non-Traditional Tropical Fall
- Subtle temperature changes marking the season
- Decreased rainfall leading to clearer skies
- Fall harvests of tropical fruits like breadfruit and mango
- Ironman World Championship in October, a unique fall event
This diversity allows visitors to experience everything from early Arctic autumn to tropical beach days, all within the Pacific region during the fall season.
Other Regions to explore
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NEW ENGLAND FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT
Why New England
New England is revered as the most reliable foliage destination region in the US, and with good reason. It boasts a rich history, charming small towns, and a plethora of outdoor activities to complement your foliage expedition.
Peak Foliage
High Elevation:
Late September to Early October
Sea Level:
Early to Mid-October
Popular Destinations
White Mountains, New Hampshire; Vermont’s Route 100; Acadia National Park, Maine
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Mid Atlantic FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT
Why Mid Atlantic
The vibrant colors of a Mid-Atlantic fall beautifully complement its historic charm, rugged wilderness, and coastal allure. With its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, the Mid-Atlantic region is an ideal destination for those seeking a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
Peak Foliage
High Elevation: Late September to Late-October
Sea Level: Late October to Mid-November
Popular Destinations
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia; Hudson Valley, New York; Eastern Shore, Maryland
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SOUTHEAST FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT
Why the Southeast
The Southeast combines stunning natural beauty with quintessential Southern hospitality. Journey along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina and Virginia, immerse yourself in the mystical allure of the Great Smoky Mountains that straddle Tennessee and North Carolina, or follow the Natchez Trace Parkway through Mississippi, Tennessee, and Alabama. From historic cities to breathtaking mountain landscapes the Southeastern US is where the charm and magic of autumn meet.
Peak Foliage
High Elevation: Early October to Mid-November
Sea Level: Late October to Late November
Popular Destinations
Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina/Virginia;Â Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina; Natchez Trace Parkway, Mississippi/Tennessee/Alabama
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GREAT LAKES FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT
Why the Great Lakes
The Great Lake states enchant leaf peepers with their unique combination of natural beauty, gorgeous lakes, and enchanting wilderness. This region is a paradise for those seeking an autumn adventure that seamlessly blends the breathtaking beauty of the Great Lakes with the enchanting allure of the wilderness. The striking contrast of autumn foliage against the backdrop of vast, sparkling waters creates a visual masterpiece that’s truly one-of-a-kind.
Peak Foliage
High Elevation: Late September to Mid-October
Sea Level: Early October to Late November
Popular Destinations
Door County, Wisconsin; Sleeping Bear Dunes, Michigan; Hocking Hills, Ohio
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MIDWEST FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT
Why the Midwest
Explore tranquil lakes, rolling farmland, and charming small towns that come alive with autumn colors. From the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri to the Kettle Moraine State Forest in Wisconsin and the Maquoketa Caves State Park in Iowa, the Midwest’s natural beauty is complemented by the charm of its communities. This is a place where the autumn foliage showcases a quieter, yet no less enchanting, side of the season. It’s a region where you can escape the hustle and bustle, savor the crisp fall air, and embrace the simple joys of the changing seasons.Â
Peak Foliage
High Elevation: Early October to Mid-November
Sea Level: Mid-October to Mid-November
Popular Destinations
Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri; Kettle Moraine State Forest, Wisconsin; Maquoketa Caves State Park, Iowa
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SOUTHWEST FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT
Why the Southwest
The Southwest region offers a foliage adventure like no other. It offers an untraditional foliage experience, highlighted by the rugged beauty of the desert, the striking colors of the canyons, and the mystical allure of its arid landscapes. This region provides a captivating contrast to the typical autumn scenes, where you’ll experience cooler temperatures, where you’ll experience cooler temperatures and find yourself enveloped in the warm, earthy tones of fall.
Peak Foliage
High Elevation: Mid-October to Mid-November
Sea Level: Early November to Mid December
Popular Destinations
Santa Fe, New Mexico; Sedona, Arizona; Lost Maples State Natural Area, Texas
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Mountain West FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT
Why the Mountain West
The Mountain West region presents a breathtaking foliage experience with its rugged peaks and alpine landscapes. Witness the aspen groves turning vibrant shades of gold amid the mountainous terrain and throw in a hike, camp, or canoe for an extra dose of adventure. The Mountain West is a region that captures the essence of autumn’s majesty at its most grand and dramatic.
Peak Foliage
High Elevation: Late September to Late October
Sea Level: Mid-October to Mid-November
Popular Destinations
Aspen, Colorado; Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming; Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Idaho
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PACIFIC FOLIAGE SNAPSHOT
Why the Pacific
The Pacific Coast states provide a coastal foliage experience like no other. From the majestic Redwoods to the vibrant vineyards, it’s a region that combines natural beauty and cultural richness. Whether you’re exploring the wine country of California, the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon, or Olympic National Park in Washington, the Pacific Coast states offer a captivating fusion of coastal charm and abundant fall colors. Here, you can witness the transition of seasons in a setting that’s both picturesque and culturally rich. This is where the allure of the coastline and the enchantment of autumn harmonize to create a one-of-a-kind foliage adventure.
Peak Foliage
High Elevation: Early September to Mid-November
Sea Level: Late September to late November
Popular Destinations
Wine Country, California; Columbia River Gorge, Oregon; Olympic National Park, Washington
EXPLORING ALL THINGS FALL IN THE PACIFIC
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Fall Foliage Festivals
of the Pacific
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Top State Parks for Foliage in the Pacific
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Trees to See in the Pacific
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