5 Fall Destinations for Leaf-Peeping in Washington

As the air cools and the days get shorter, Washington transforms into a canvas of vibrant fall colors. If you enjoy taking in nature’s beauty, leaf-peeping in this state offers plenty of opportunities to soak up stunning views.

You can find some of the best spots for fall foliage that are perfect for hiking, driving, or just relaxing outdoors. Whether you want mountains, forests, or charming small towns, Washington has a variety of places to make your autumn outings memorable.

Wallace Falls State Park

If you’re looking for a great spot to catch fall colors, Wallace Falls State Park offers a stunning setting with a mix of forest, lakes, and waterfalls. The park is known for its three-tiered waterfall that drops 256 feet—an impressive sight surrounded by vibrant autumn leaves.

You can explore about 12 miles of trails here, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes. One popular route takes you up to multiple viewpoints of Wallace Falls, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the valley and nearby mountains.

It’s a busy spot on weekends, so plan to arrive early if you want a parking space close by. Dogs are welcome but must stay on leash for everyone’s safety. If you want to extend your visit, consider camping in one of the walk-in sites or renting a cozy cabin nearby.

Picnic areas with shelters are available for you to relax and soak up the fall atmosphere. Just remember that fires are only allowed in designated pits and grills.

Rating: 4.8 (2549 reviews)
Location: 14503 Wallace Lake Road, Gold Bar, WA 98251
Contact: (360) 793-0420
Website: Visit Website

Myrtle Falls

When you visit Myrtle Falls, get ready to see a waterfall dropping 72 feet into a rugged gorge. The views are especially stunning with snow-capped Mount Rainier in the background, making it a great spot for photos and a simple hike.

The trail to the falls is pretty accessible, so you don’t have to be an experienced hiker to enjoy the scenery. It’s a popular stop for those exploring Mount Rainier National Park, and the fresh mountain air adds to the whole experience.

If you’re visiting in autumn, the fall colors around the area create a beautiful frame for the waterfall. It’s a peaceful spot to relax and take in some nature without going too far off the beaten path.

Rating: 4.8 (1437 reviews)
Location: Ashford, WA 98304
Contact: (360) 569-2211
Website: Visit Website

Whatcom Falls Park

If you’re looking for a spot to enjoy the changing colors of fall, Whatcom Falls Park offers plenty of natural beauty. You can stroll along trails that wind through wooded areas and past waterfalls, making it a peaceful escape.

The park has a mix of activities like picnicking, fishing, and playgrounds for kids. There are also picnic shelters you can reserve if you’re planning to spend a little more time with friends or family.

For a little more action, you can find outdoor basketball and tennis courts, plus fields for other sports. The park stays open early to late, so you have plenty of daylight hours to take in the scenery and explore.

Two main entrances make it easy to reach different parts of the park. One leads to the sports field and playground, while another gets you closer to the fish hatchery and creek area.

Rating: 4.8 (4363 reviews)
Location: 1401 Electric Ave, Bellingham, WA 98229
Contact: (360) 778-7000
Website: Visit Website

Lower Lewis River Falls

If you’re looking for a peaceful spot to enjoy the fall colors, Lower Lewis River Falls is a great pick. The waterfall itself is wide and impressive, falling calmly through the forest. You can take in the vibrant leaves while listening to the soothing sounds of rushing water.

The area around the falls is quiet and relaxing, making it perfect for a break from busier spots. You might find natural swimming holes nearby if the weather’s still warm enough. It’s a nice place to soak in both the colors and nature without a big crowd.

Since it’s part of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, you’ll be surrounded by towering trees and wildlife. Take your time exploring the trails and just enjoy the forest air along with the views of the cascades.

Plan to bring your camera, as the falls paired with colorful leaves make for great photos. Just remember to check the park’s website if you want more info on conditions or any seasonal notices.

Rating: 4.7 (873 reviews)
Location: Cougar, WA 98616
Contact: (509) 395-3400
Website: Visit Website

Forks Of The Sky State Park

If you’re looking for a peaceful spot to enjoy fall colors, Forks Of The Sky State Park is a great choice. The park is known for its beautiful trails surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage. It’s a wonderful place to hike or simply take in the crisp fall air.

You can explore a variety of trails that wind through forests and along rivers. The changing leaves create a colorful backdrop, making it perfect for photography or a quiet stroll. This spot is especially nice if you want to avoid crowded areas.

The park is close to the town of Gold Bar, so it’s easy to get to for a day trip. You can also combine your visit with nearby outdoor activities. Forks Of The Sky offers a natural setting where you can connect with the outdoors during the fall season.

Rating: 4.7 (173 reviews)
Location: Gold Bar, WA 98251
Website: Visit Website

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