California is a state that dazzles with its diverse landscapes, ranging from sandy beaches to towering mountains and dense forests. Fall is the perfect time to explore this incredible state, as the weather cools and the summer crowds thin out. Whether you’re looking for scenic drives, charming small towns, or outdoor adventures, California has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the 15+ best places to visit in California this fall.
1. Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is a breathtaking destination year-round, but fall brings a special kind of magic. The summer crowds have dispersed, leaving the park quieter and more serene. The leaves of dogwoods, maples, and oaks turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a stunning contrast against the granite cliffs and waterfalls. Yosemite Valley, with its iconic landmarks like Half Dome and El Capitan, is a must-see. Take a hike along the Mist Trail to see Vernal and Nevada Falls or drive along Tioga Road for panoramic views of the High Sierra. For a quieter experience, explore the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, where you can walk among some of the largest trees on Earth.
2. Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe, straddling the border of California and Nevada, is a beautiful destination for fall. The crystal-clear waters of the lake are surrounded by the Sierra Nevada mountains, which become a canvas of fall colors. Activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking are popular during this season. One of the best ways to experience the fall foliage is by taking a drive around the lake on the Lake Tahoe Scenic Byway. Don’t miss Emerald Bay State Park, where you can take a short hike to see Vikingsholm, a historic Scandinavian-style castle, and the picturesque Fannette Island. For those who enjoy a more laid-back experience, consider a sunset cruise on the lake.
3. Big Sur
Big Sur is a rugged stretch of California’s Central Coast that offers some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in the world. Fall is an excellent time to visit because the summer fog has lifted, revealing clear skies and stunning ocean views. The drive along Highway 1 is one of the most scenic in the country, with numerous pullouts where you can stop and take in the vistas. Visit McWay Falls, an 80-foot waterfall that cascades directly onto a sandy beach. Another must-see is Bixby Creek Bridge, one of the most photographed spots along the coast. For a unique experience, hike the trails at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, where you can see redwoods, waterfalls, and panoramic ocean views.
4. Napa Valley
Napa Valley is world-renowned for its vineyards and wineries, and fall is harvest season, making it one of the best times to visit. The vineyards are full of ripe grapes, and the leaves on the vines turn golden and crimson. Take a wine tour to sample some of the region’s best offerings, or ride the Napa Valley Wine Train for a scenic and indulgent experience. The weather is perfect for outdoor activities like hot air balloon rides, where you can float over the vineyards and take in the breathtaking landscape. Downtown Napa and the surrounding towns like Yountville and St. Helena are also worth exploring, with their charming shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
5. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are home to some of the largest and oldest trees on the planet, including the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree by volume in the world. Fall is a fantastic time to visit these parks because the weather is cooler, and the crowds are smaller. The parks offer a variety of hiking trails that take you through giant sequoia groves, along rivers, and to stunning viewpoints. One of the highlights is the hike to Moro Rock, a granite dome that offers panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Another must-see is the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway, which takes you deep into the canyon and provides access to several beautiful overlooks and picnic spots.
6. Death Valley National Park
Death Valley National Park is known for its extreme temperatures, but fall brings more moderate weather, making it an ideal time to explore this unique landscape. The park features a diverse range of landscapes, from sand dunes to salt flats to colorful badlands. One of the most popular spots is Zabriskie Point, where you can watch the sunrise or sunset over the golden-colored hills. Another must-see is Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, where you can walk on the salt flats and take in the vastness of the desert. For a more adventurous experience, hike through Golden Canyon or explore the narrow, winding passages of Mosaic Canyon.
7. Mammoth Lakes
Mammoth Lakes is a mountain resort town located in the Eastern Sierra, and fall is a beautiful time to visit. The aspen trees in the area turn bright yellow, creating a stunning contrast against the evergreen forests and rugged mountains. The town is surrounded by lakes, which reflect the fall colors and provide excellent opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. One of the best hikes in the area is the trail to Devils Postpile National Monument, where you can see unique basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity. Another highlight is the scenic drive along the June Lake Loop, where you can stop at several lakes and enjoy the fall foliage.
8. Julian
Julian is a charming mountain town located in San Diego County, known for its apple orchards and historic gold mines. Fall is the perfect time to visit, as the apple harvest is in full swing, and the town hosts several apple-themed events and festivals. Take a stroll through the town’s historic district, where you can visit old-fashioned shops, bakeries, and museums. Don’t miss the chance to pick your own apples at one of the nearby orchards or sample a slice of Julian’s famous apple pie. For a bit of adventure, explore the nearby Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, where you can hike through oak woodlands and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
9. Sonoma County
Sonoma County is another top destination for wine lovers, offering a more laid-back and rustic experience compared to Napa Valley. Fall is harvest season, and the vineyards are a patchwork of vibrant colors. Take a wine tour to visit some of the region’s best wineries, or explore the charming towns of Healdsburg and Sebastopol. Sonoma County is also known for its beautiful coastline, so be sure to take a drive along the Pacific Coast Highway to see the dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and charming coastal towns like Bodega Bay. For outdoor enthusiasts, the area offers excellent hiking and biking opportunities, particularly in Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, where you can walk among towering redwoods.
10. Santa Ynez Valley
The Santa Ynez Valley is located in Santa Barbara County and is known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and charming small towns. Fall is a great time to visit because the weather is mild, and the vineyards are full of ripe grapes. The town of Solvang is a must-see, with its Danish-style architecture, windmills, and bakeries. Take a wine tour to sample some of the region’s best wines, or explore the scenic countryside on horseback or by bike. The valley is also home to several excellent restaurants, many of which focus on farm-to-table cuisine. For a unique experience, visit during the annual Santa Ynez Valley Scarecrow Fest, where the towns compete to create the most creative and whimsical scarecrows.
11. Mount Shasta
Mount Shasta is a majestic volcano located in Northern California, and fall is a fantastic time to visit. The mountain is surrounded by forests, lakes, and rivers, which come alive with fall colors. The town of Mount Shasta is a great base for exploring the area, with its quaint shops, cafes, and art galleries. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, and kayaking. One of the best hikes in the area is the trail to Heart Lake, which offers stunning views of Mount Shasta and the surrounding landscape. Another highlight is the McCloud River, where you can see three beautiful waterfalls, each with its own unique character.
12. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is the largest state park in California, covering over 600,000 acres of desert landscape. Fall is one of the best times to visit because the temperatures are more moderate, making it ideal for hiking and exploring. The park is known for its dramatic scenery, including badlands, canyons, and wildflower-covered hills. One of the highlights is the Borrego Palm Canyon Trail, which takes you through a palm oasis and offers stunning views of the surrounding desert. For a unique experience, visit the park at night to see the stars in one of the darkest skies in Southern California.
13. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Lassen Volcanic National Park is a lesser-known gem located in Northern California, offering a unique landscape of volcanic features, alpine lakes, and dense forests. Fall is a beautiful time to visit, as the aspen trees turn bright yellow, and the weather is cool and crisp. The park is home to several geothermal features, including boiling springs, fumaroles, and mud pots. One of the best hikes in the park is the trail to Bumpass Hell, where you can see colorful hot springs and steaming fumaroles. Another must-see is the hike to the summit of Lassen Peak, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. For a more leisurely experience, take a drive along the park’s scenic byway, which offers stunning views and access to several beautiful lakes.
14. Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is a laid-back coastal town known for its beaches, boardwalk, and redwood forests. Fall is a great time to visit because the weather ismild, and the summer crowds have thinned out. Start your visit with a stroll along the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, where you can enjoy classic seaside attractions and rides. For a more peaceful experience, head to Natural Bridges State Beach, where you can see the iconic natural rock bridge and, if you’re lucky, catch a glimpse of migrating monarch butterflies in the nearby eucalyptus grove.
The town is also a gateway to the nearby redwood forests, where you can hike among towering trees in places like Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park or Big Basin Redwoods State Park. For those who enjoy the water, consider renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm waters of Monterey Bay, or take a scenic drive along West Cliff Drive for stunning ocean views.
15. Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea
Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea are neighboring towns on California’s Central Coast that offer a mix of coastal beauty, history, and charm. In Monterey, visit the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, where you can see a wide variety of marine life, including sea otters, jellyfish, and sharks. The town is also known for Cannery Row, a historic area that has been transformed into a bustling district with shops, restaurants, and galleries.
Carmel-by-the-Sea is a picturesque village known for its art galleries, boutiques, and charming cottages. Take a walk along the scenic Carmel Beach, where you can enjoy views of the rugged coastline and the famous Pebble Beach Golf Links. The 17-Mile Drive, which winds through the exclusive Pebble Beach community, offers some of the most stunning coastal views in California, with stops at landmarks like the Lone Cypress and Spanish Bay.
16. Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park is a unique desert destination where two distinct ecosystems, the Mojave and Colorado deserts, come together. The park is known for its surreal landscapes, including the iconic Joshua trees, massive boulders, and vast desert vistas. Fall is an ideal time to visit, as the temperatures are cooler, making it perfect for hiking and rock climbing.
Some of the best hikes in the park include the Hidden Valley Trail, which takes you through a scenic valley surrounded by towering rock formations, and the Barker Dam Trail, where you can see a historic dam and catch glimpses of desert wildlife. For a more challenging hike, try the Ryan Mountain Trail, which offers panoramic views of the park from the summit.
Joshua Tree is also a designated Dark Sky Park, making it an excellent spot for stargazing. After a day of exploring, set up a campfire at one of the park’s campgrounds and enjoy the clear, star-filled night sky.
California in the fall is a treasure trove of natural beauty, vibrant colors, and unique experiences. Whether you’re exploring the rugged coastline, the majestic mountains, or the serene deserts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the best that California has to offer this fall.