Mount Hood with fall foliage

©wayner427

Oregon ranks as the third greenest state in the USA, characterized by vast and endless forests. While predominantly evergreen with species like Douglas fir, Oregon transforms into a spectacular sight during the fall season. Trees such as red alder, Pacific dogwood, and vine maple contribute scarlet hues, while bigleaf maple and cascara offer rich yellows. Oregon white oak adds a touch of bronze, creating a vibrant and colorful autumn landscape across the state.

The best time to see fall foliage in Oregon

The optimal time to witness the fall foliage in Oregon is during October. Typically, the transformation of trees begins in late September, with colors peaking from mid-to-late October across most regions. In northeastern Oregon, fall colors extend into early and mid-November, providing an extended opportunity to enjoy the autumn spectacle in this part of the state.

Best places to see fall foliage in Oregon

Oregon's autumn landscapes are a canvas of vibrant colors, from the lush greenery of heritage trees dotting cityscapes to the natural splendor of arboretums. One of the most breathtaking displays unfolds in the Columbia River Gorge and Hood River Valley, where cascading waterfalls and the majestic Mount Hood provide a stunning backdrop to the changing leaves.

Meanwhile, in Silverton's Oregon Garden, 80 acres of meticulously landscaped grounds come alive with the fiery hues of autumn, accentuated by festive holiday lights as the season progresses. In Corvallis, the Peavy Arboretum at Oregon State University offers a tranquil retreat amidst a diverse collection of trees, perfect for immersing oneself in the serene beauty of fall foliage.

Lithia Park in Ashland offers a serene setting for enjoying autumn's colors, with its winding paths and vibrant foliage. Mount Pisgah Arboretum near Eugene spans over 200 acres, showcasing a diverse landscape of woodlands and meadows, perfect for leisurely strolls amid fall's beauty. Dorris Ranch in Springfield provides a historic backdrop with its hazelnut orchard and riverfront trails leading to Clearwater Park, ideal for picturesque autumn views.

On the Oregon Coast, Shore Acres State Park charms visitors with coastal gardens and forests against the dramatic backdrop of the ocean. Near Salem, Silver Falls State Park captivates with its stunning display of yellow and red hues courtesy of vine maple and red alder, with the iconic Trail of Ten Falls offering a picturesque fall hike through the park.

Best places to see fall foliage in Portland

Washington Park in Portland offers an idyllic setting for a leisurely autumn stroll amidst vibrant Fall Colors. With its diverse array of trees from around the world, the park transforms into a stunning spectacle during the seasonal change. Hoyt Arboretum within the park showcases rare tree species, while the meticulously curated Japanese Garden captivates visitors with its symmetrical beauty and harmonious color schemes. For a glimpse of native Oregon flora, Forest Park is a must-visit, featuring the brilliant yellow hues of bigleaf maple against a backdrop of evergreens. The Maple Trail Loop in Forest Park is particularly enchanting during the fall season.

Cathedral Park, nestled along the Willamette River, offers panoramic views that include a beach and the iconic St. Johns Bridge. Visitors can stroll across the bridge and access the Ridge Trail Trailhead on NW Bridge Avenue, enjoying picturesque vistas framed by a canopy of golden, red-orange leaves. Cathedral Park is open daily from 5 am to midnight, inviting guests to explore its natural beauty and historical charm year-round. The Portland Japanese Garden captivates visitors with its beauty throughout the year, but autumn unveils a particularly dramatic and colorful display.

Scenic Drives

To see more fall colors, you have to head east from Portland and visit the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, located along Interstate 84. The stretch of the road known as Columbia River Highway is the most scenic part. Crown Point Vista House in Corbett offers one of the best panoramic outlooks. And at Multnomah Falls you can take an Instagram-perfect picture of the most recognizable waterfall in the state. For more breathtaking views, travel south of Hood River on the Mount Hood Scenic Highway. Stop to snap some pictures of Mount Hood and the beautiful valley surrounding the Hood River. Keep driving south to take more amazing pictures of waterfalls surrounded by fall foliage.

Practical info

When is the best time to visit Oregon for fall colors?

Fall foliage in Oregon is at its best between late September and mid-November, with the peak period for fall colors being in mid to late October. You can usually view the trees changing in late September, while the northeastern part of the state experiences its fall colors in early and mid-November. Show more

Where can I find fall colors in Oregon other than Washington Park?

Apart from Washington Park, you can find fall colors at Forest Park in Portland, the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area to the east of Portland, and Crown Point Vista House in Corbett. Silver Falls State Park, located close to Salem, is also popular for its autumn colors and is frequently visited by tourists who come to witness the landscape showcasing its rich yellow and red palette. Show more

What types of trees can I expect to see changing colors in Oregon during the fall?

While most of the trees in Oregon are evergreens, you can still view a variety of trees displaying their autumn colors. Red alder, Pacific dogwood, vine maple, bigleaf maple, cascara, and Oregon white oak are some of the trees that provide shades of scarlet, yellow, and bronze to the fall landscape of Oregon. Show more

When can I see the fall colors in northeastern Oregon?

Fall colors can be seen in northeastern Oregon in early and mid-November, while in other parts of the state, trees begin changing hues later in September and reach the peak period for fall colors between mid to late October. Show more

Can I see waterfalls with fall foliage in Oregon? Where?

Oregon's Multnomah Falls is surrounded by foliage in the fall, making it the perfect spot to view the colors. To witness nature's beauty, you can head south of Hood River on Mount Hood Scenic Highway and admire Mount Hood and the lovely valley surrounding the Hood River during its autumn glory. Visitors can also enjoy a scenic hike through Silver Falls State Park's Trail of Ten Falls and enjoy the falls bedecked in autumn colors. Show more