To say I love fall is an understatement.
Iâm a basic fall betch who breaks out the sweaters and PSL the second September 1st rolls around. And every year, I go hunting around California for the best fall leaves. I live in San Francisco, and as you probably know, October is actually our summer.
So instead, I grab my gingham jackets and head out across the state to find the best California fall colors. And Iâm finally sharing my favorite spots with you.
When Is Fall in California (2025)?
Fall foliage in California is tricky. The window to catch peak color can be super shortâsometimes less than a week! Iâve been chasing leaves in California for 8 years and have learned that flexibility is key. Peak season varies by elevation: the higher you go, the earlier leaves change. In general, plan for mid-October to early November for most areas.
Pro tip: Follow fall foliage maps or local forums for real-time updates before your trip.
Quick Guide to California Fall Foliage Timing by Location
| Region | Best Time to Visit | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Eastern Sierra | Late Sep â Mid Oct | Aspen groves, alpine lakes |
| Northern California | Oct â Early Nov | Wine country, small towns |
| Southern California | Mid Oct â Late Nov | Mountain towns, apple orchards |
1. Sacramento (Late Oct â Nov)
Didnât think Iâd start with Sacramento, huh? Itâs not called the City of Trees for nothing. Drive around the 40s and 50s neighborhoods and youâll find vibrant reds and oranges.
Because it stays hot longer here, leaves peak later in the season, which makes it perfect for a November visit.
2. Big Bear Lake (Mid to Late Oct)
Last fall I visited Big Bear Lake and was thrilled to see rows of glowing trees. Itâs like Lake Tahoe but with fewer crowds. Autumn is off-season here, so itâs easier to book cozy cabins like this one we stayed at on Airbnb, and hike peaceful trails. Donât skip the views along the Alpine Pedal Path!
3. Yosemite National Park (Early to Mid Oct)
Yosemite Valley is a whole vibe in fall. Last November, I explored the valley with my bestie and we found pockets of orange leaves with moody morning fog.
Nothing like looking up to see the mountains towering above you, dotted with orange and yellow Black Oaks. plus, El Capitan + fall foliage = chef’s kiss. Stay at Evergreen Lodge, they have amazing yellow trees right on the property!Â
4. Bass Lake (Oct)
Just outside Yosemite, Bass Lake offers leaf-peeping by kayak. Rent one from Millerâs Landing for stunning views.
If you go in November, you might get a surprise snowfall which made riding the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad even more magical for us when we visited. Pair it with a visit to Mariposa Grove for frosty magic and spend a night at the Tenaya Lodge for cozy vibes.
5. Downtown Napa Valley (Late Oct â Early Nov)
Fall is prime wine tasting weather for Napa in my opinion. The streets of Napa burst with yellow and orange trees, plus the vineyards themselves hav some of the best autumn colors in the state.
Walk around, sip some cab, and soak it in. Check out Napa Valley State Park for a more active foliage experience.
6. Healdsburg (Late Oct)
My personal favorite in Sonoma County. Vineyards here turn bold reds and oranges. Start your day at Flying Goat Coffee, stroll the town square, and maybe pet the bookshop cat. Then, head to Banshee Winery for tasting that overlooks their stunning vineyards.
Itâs Bay Area magic, just 90 minutes away.
PS Napa and Sonoma isn’t the only wine country that gets fall colors. If you’re in SoCal, head to Foxen Canyon Wine Trail in Santa Maria Valley in late November to see the vines turning colors.
7. June Lake Loop (Late Sep â Early Oct)
This is my top pick for fall photos. June Lake feels like a secret. Kayak on Silver Lake, fish on Lundy Lake, hike the trails, and marvel at golden aspens beside granite peaks. Bring a picnic and take it slow.
I recommend setting aside a few more days to see the tuftas in Mono County and grab the best breakfast sandwiches in the Eastern Sierras in Lee Vining. And also the hot springs in Mammoth Lakes nearby.Â
8. Rock Creek Lake (Late Sep)
One of the highest drive-to lakes in the Sierras. Come early, as snow can end the season fast. Hike the Lower Rock Creek Trail for panoramic views. Nearby gems: Convict Lake and Fallen Leaf Lake.
9. Bishop Creek Canyon (Mid Sep â Oct)
Bishop is famous for fall color. I recommend North Lake Road or South Lake for hiking. Bring your camera, youâll want to capture everything from alpine meadows to gold-draped hills.
10. Lake Tahoe (Mid to Late Oct)
Lake Tahoe isnât just for skiing. In October, the area quiets down and the aspens pop. Stay at the Hyatt on North Lake or explore Luther Pass and Fallen Leaf Lake on South Lake Tahoe. The calm lake + fall trees = autumn bliss.
11. Truckee (Mid Oct)
This historic town north of Tahoe has charm in spades. Walk the downtown or hike to Angela, Flora, and Azalea Lakes for views of Donner Lake. The Gold Rush architecture + golden leaves? Chefâs kiss.
12. Hope Valley (Mid Oct)
Just 30 mins from South Tahoe. One rainy day we turned a corner and BOOM, the whole valley was on fire with color. Stay at Desolation Yurts for rustic vibes. This spot is a must for photographers.
13. Quincy (Early Oct)
A totally underrated spot north of Tahoe. The season is short, but stunning. I stayed at Greenhorn Ranch and went horseback riding through golden groves. Honestly? Leaf-peeping on horseback > any other way.
14. Sonora (Early to Mid Oct)
Cutest dang town ever. I camped at Pinecrest Lake and stumbled on a red maple in front of a hilltop church that took my breath away. Iâm making a trip back just for that tree.
15. Redding & Lassen Volcanic NP (Early Oct)
Youâll find patches of bold color near Burney Falls and in Lassen. Fall is also the best time to visit before snow shuts things down. Less crowds, more peace.
16. Lake Sabrina (Late Sep)
Southwest of Bishop, Lake Sabrina sits at 9,128 ft. That means the trees explode into color early. Golden hues contrast against the bright blue water and rugged peaks. Itâs remote and worth every mile.
17. Julian (Mid to Late Oct)
I havenât been yet but itâs on my list as I hear Julian fall colors hit different. This mountain town east of San Diego is known for apple pie and autumn leaves. What more do you need?
18. Calaveras County (Oct â Nov)
This oneâs personal. Iâve been renovating my cabin in Arnold, and itâs a quiet but colorful fall spot. Stop at The Red Apple for cider and donuts. The Sequoia groves at Big Trees State Park, the lakes, and wine tasting make this a perfect weekend escape.
19. Palomar Mountain State Park
Nestled in San Diego County, is another hidden gem. This underrated state park explodes with color in late October and early November. Itâs one of the few places in San Diego County where you can walk under tall trees shedding vibrant leaves. Bring layers, it gets chilly at this elevation, and plan for a picnic among the maples.
20. Oak Glen
Down in San Bernardino County, is one of my favorite fall stops in SoCal. Itâs home to apple farms, cider donuts, and the Oak Glen Preserve. The hiking trails here are lined with golden leaves and the scent of autumn in the air.
Where to Find Southern California Fall Colors
Southern California doesnât always get the fall foliage spotlight, but trust me, it still brings the magic if you know where to go. You just have to head into the mountains to find it. Julien, Big Bear and Lake Arrowhead all have good fall colors to explore.
But, the dentistry of fall leaves is usually less than in Northern California.
These towns may not have the full New England-style foliage, but what they lack in scale they make up for in cozy vibes and accessibility. Pack your flannel and hit the road!
Whatâs the Weather Like in Fall?
Itâs rarely freezing. Youâll probably get warm days and cool nights as you hunt for California foliage. Some mountain spots may get early snow. Pack layers and donât forget your cozy sweaters.
FAQ: California Fall Colors
When is peak fall in California? Mid-October to early November. Higher elevations change earlier. It’s best to pay attention to the annual color report which puts out a California fall color map each yearÂ
Where are the best fall colors? Eastern Sierra: June Lake, Rock Creek, Bishop. Also: Napa, Healdsburg, Big Bear.
Can you see fall colors in SoCal? Yes! Try Julian, Oak Glen, Big Bear, or Lake Arrowhead for fall autumn colors in Southern California.
Which national parks have fall foliage? Yosemite, Lassen, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon all have fall foliage in California, but Yosemite is my favorite one to visit this time of year.
How long do the colors last? Usually just 1-2 weeks. Stay flexible and follow updates.
California in the fall is magical. It might not be Vermont, but when you see golden aspens in the Eastern Sierra or sip pinot under orange vineyards, youâll fall in love with the season here.
Did I miss your favorite spot? Drop a comment or DM me on Instagram @thewhimsysoul. Happy leaf hunting!
