Scenic Splendor: The Best Fall Foliage Drives in the Pacific Northwest Chris Caggiano August 28, 2024 general, Top US Destinations, Travel Tips When autumn arrives in the Pacific Northwest, the region transforms into a vibrant tapestry of gold, crimson, and amber. Towering evergreens stand in dramatic contrast against deciduous trees as they shed their summer greens in favor of fiery hues. From the misty coastlines of Oregon to the alpine passes of Washington and the rolling hills of Idaho’s panhandle, fall in the PNW offers a breathtaking blend of natural color and scenic landscapes. One of the best ways to experience this seasonal spectacle is behind the wheel. Fall foliage drives in the Pacific Northwest allow travelers to slow down, soak in the scenery, and discover charming towns, forested trails, and hidden vistas along the way. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer road trip, there’s no shortage of winding byways and scenic highways that come alive with fall color. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the most picturesque drives across Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, complete with highlights, travel tips, and suggested stops. Get ready to pack a thermos, bring your camera, and hit the road. This is autumn at its best. Essential tips Planning a fall foliage road trip in the Pacific Northwest can be the perfect seasonal escape — cooler temperatures, open roads, and sweeping landscapes dressed in autumn’s best. But to get the most enjoyment out of your journey, a little preparation goes a long way. Here are some key tips to help you make the most of your fall adventure: Check conditions before you go — Fall weather in the Pacific Northwest can be unpredictable. Sunny mornings may give way to afternoon rain, and mountain passes can see the first snow as early as late September. Always check road conditions, weather forecasts, and any seasonal closures—especially in higher elevations like McKenzie Pass or Chinook Pass. Time your trip right — Weekends during peak foliage can draw crowds, particularly in popular spots like Leavenworth, the Columbia River Gorge, or North Cascades Highway. If possible, plan your drive midweek for a more relaxed experience. Start early in the day to catch soft light, gentle fog, and fewer people at scenic viewpoints. Pack smart — Layers are key. Fall temperatures vary widely between morning and afternoon, and can drop quickly in the mountains. Bring a waterproof jacket, sturdy shoes if you plan to hike, and warm extras like gloves and a hat. A thermos of coffee or tea and a few regional snacks never hurt either. Bring navigation – and a backup — Some of the most beautiful routes lead into places with limited or no cell service. While GPS is great, it’s smart to bring a paper map or download offline directions ahead of time. Apps like Gaia GPS, Avenza, or even Google Maps’ offline mode can be useful in remote regions. Travel responsibly — As more people explore the outdoors each year, practicing Leave No Trace is more important than ever. Stay on marked trails, pack out all trash, and avoid trampling foliage for photos. Be respectful of smaller communities, local businesses, and Native lands you may pass through along your route. Washington State Washington State From alpine highways to riverside routes, Washington State offers some of the most striking fall foliage displays in the Pacific Northwest. With vivid vine maples, golden larches, and russet-colored oaks set against towering evergreens and snow-dusted peaks, the Evergreen State becomes a multi-toned masterpiece during the fall months. Here are a few must-drive routes for catching the best of Washington’s autumn splendor: Cascade Loop Scenic Highway Route: Begins in Everett and loops through Leavenworth, the Methow Valley, and North Cascades National Park Distance: Approx. 440 miles round-trip Best Time to Visit: Late September to mid-October This iconic drive offers a grand tour of Washington’s fall colors, moving through multiple ecosystems and geography zones. Start in the lush lowlands north of Seattle, then head east over Stevens Pass, where vine maples paint the forest red and orange. Stop in the Bavarian-themed town of Leavenworth, where golden cottonwoods line the Wenatchee River, before continuing through the orchard country of the Methow Valley, brimming with vibrant fall hues. The real highlight lies in the return stretch via North Cascades Highway (State Route 20). Here, alpine larches—one of the few conifers that turn yellow and drop their needles—glow gold against craggy mountain backdrops. Photographers and hikers will find no shortage of golden views along trailheads near Washington Pass. Chinook Pass Scenic Byway (State Route 410) Route: Enumclaw to Naches via Chinook Pass and Mount Rainier National Park Distance: Approx. 85 miles (one-way) Best Time to Visit: Late September to early October (before snow closures) Chinook Pass is pure magic in autumn, with red-orange huckleberry shrubs, turning alpine meadows, and golden western larches gracing the higher elevations. This byway skirts the eastern flank of Mount Rainier National Park, offering breathtaking views of the iconic peak framed by fall color. Popular photo stops include Tipsoo Lake, where the mountain reflects on still waters surrounded by blazing foliage, and Naches Peak Loop Trail, an easy hike bursting with autumn scenery. Keep an eye out for elk and marmots preparing for winter — this route is as lively with wildlife as it is with color. Olympic Peninsula Loop (U.S. Route 101) Route: Loop around the Olympic Peninsula, starting from Olympia or Aberdeen Distance: Approx. 330 miles Best Time to Visit: Mid to late October While best known for its evergreen rainforests and coastal views, the Olympic Peninsula is also home to vibrant seasonal changes. Pockets of bigleaf maples turn flaming yellow-orange along the Hoh River and Sol Duc Valley, creating striking color against moss-laden trees and driftwood-strewn beaches. Don’t miss Lake Crescent, where still waters reflect fall hues from surrounding hills, or the Quinault Rainforest, where golden leaves carpet fern-filled trails beneath towering conifers. This route is ideal for road trippers seeking a slower pace and fewer crowds. Oregon Oregon Oregon’s diverse landscapes make it a spectacular place for autumn foliage drives. From dramatic river gorges to high mountain passes and fertile valleys filled with orchards, the state offers a wide range of fall experiences. Whether you’re cruising through wine country or heading high into the Cascades, Oregon’s roads offer views of maple-lined rivers, golden larches, and fiery hillsides set against signature Pacific Northwest backdrops. Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway Route: Troutdale to The Dalles along Interstate 84 and Historic Columbia River Highway Distance: Approx. 70 miles (one-way) Best Time to Visit: Mid to late October Few places encapsulate Oregon’s autumn magic like the Columbia River Gorge. This drive features a mix of evergreen forests and radiant hardwoods clinging to steep canyon walls. The Historic Columbia River Highway winds through tunnels, over stone bridges, and past a series of breathtaking waterfalls, including Multnomah Falls, framed by brilliant orange maple leaves and misty cliffs. Stop at Vista House for sweeping views of the gorge lit in warm autumn tones. Hiking trails abound, and roadside farm stands offer seasonal produce, cider, and pumpkin treats straight from the orchard. McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway Route: Sisters to Belknap Springs via Oregon Routes 242 and 126 Distance: Approx. 82 miles Best Time to Visit: Late September to mid-October (check road status) Winding through one of Oregon’s most geologically fascinating areas, this byway links golden forests, lava fields, and distant volcanic peaks. The western slopes brim with colorful vine maples, while high-elevation areas showcase the larch trees that turn a brilliant yellow in fall. Don’t miss the Dee Wright Observatory, where you can view the Cascade volcanoes rising above a sea of ancient black lava flows. Descending toward the McKenzie River Valley, soak in waterfalls, hot springs, and a rich spectrum of seasonal color. Note: McKenzie Pass (OR 242) is narrow and seasonal, usually closing by late October. Rogue–Umpqua Scenic Byway Route: Roseburg to Gold Hill via Highways 138 and 62 Distance: Approx. 172 miles Best Time to Visit: Mid-October Tucked in southern Oregon, this under-the-radar route offers a peaceful alternative to more crowded fall destinations. The road follows the North Umpqua and Rogue Rivers through dense forests filled with bigleaf maples and changing dogwoods, giving way to fiery hillsides and the occasional glimpse of wildlife. Along the way, stop for photo ops at Toketee Falls and Watson Falls, stroll through golden oak groves, or take a detour to Crater Lake’s rim, where the cobalt water is even more striking when surrounded by golden larches and early dustings of snow. You Might Also Enjoy: 10 Great Places for Peak Fall Foliage Viewing — That Aren’t in New England! Idaho Idaho Northern Idaho may be one of the Pacific Northwest’s best-kept secrets when it comes to fall color. With vast forests, sparkling alpine lakes, and a wealth of western larch trees that blaze gold in October, the Idaho Panhandle offers peaceful, scenic drives far from the mainstream. Crisp air, uncrowded highways, and pure wilderness make this region an ideal place to enjoy a slower, more reflective autumn road trip. Lake Coeur d’Alene Scenic Byway Route: Coeur d’Alene to Harrison via Idaho State Highway 97 Distance: Approx. 35 miles (one-way) Best Time to Visit: Mid-October This short but stunning drive hugs the eastern shoreline of Lake Coeur d’Alene, offering expansive water views and colorful hillsides reflected in the lake’s glassy surface. Look for golden cottonwoods and scarlet sumac along the water’s edge, as well as tamaracks — Idaho’s iconic western larches — turning brilliant yellow as fall progresses. Charming lakeside towns like Harrison offer a chance to stretch your legs, grab a warm drink, or explore a local café. Cyclists can also connect to the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, which runs parallel to parts of the byway and offers its own set of peaceful autumn views. Pend Oreille Scenic Byway Route: Sandpoint to the Montana border via U.S. Route 200 Distance: Approx. 33 miles Best Time to Visit: Early to mid-October Running along the northern edge of Lake Pend Oreille, this coastal-like route feels worlds away from city life. The road winds through quiet stretches of forest and farmland, with glimpses of the Cabinet Mountains rising in the distance. Fall colors here come alive in layers—vibrant yellow aspens, fiery red shrubs, and golden tamaracks interspersed among deep green firs and pines. The town of Sandpoint makes a perfect base for a fall getaway. With cozy lodging, local shops, and mountain views, it’s an ideal place to start or end your foliage drive. Be sure to visit Schweitzer Mountain Resort, where fall chairlift rides offer panoramic views of the lake and surrounding countryside ablaze with color. Priest Lake and the Selkirk Loop Route: Newport, Washington to Bonners Ferry, Idaho via Priest Lake and State Highway 57 Distance: Approx. 280 miles (loop including sections of Washington and British Columbia) Best Time to Visit: Mid to late October For a longer adventure, consider exploring the International Selkirk Loop, which passes through some of the most dramatic and lesser-visited parts of northern Idaho. The Idaho segment, especially near Priest Lake, is rich in larch forests, calm lake vistas, and quiet roads perfect for meandering drives. Priest Lake itself is a highlight in fall — surrounded by dense woods and framed by the Selkirk Mountains, the area is known for its brilliant tamarack displays in October. Campgrounds, hiking trails, and a few cozy lodges offer ways to stay and unplug while enjoying the season at its peak. FAQs: Q: Do I need a special permit or pass to access these drives? A: Some routes pass through national or state parks where a day-use fee or recreation pass may be required. The Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass often covers multiple areas. Check local guidelines before heading out. Q: Are fall drives suitable for RVs or trailers? A: Many scenic byways are RV-accessible, but some routes—like McKenzie Pass (OR 242)—have tight curves and restrictions. Always verify road limitations and conditions in advance if you’re driving a larger vehicle. Q: Are there services and gas stations along these routes? A: Services can be sparse, especially in more remote areas like North Cascades Highway or parts of the Selkirk Loop. Fill up your gas tank before you go and plan stops in advance, particularly for food, restrooms, and lodging. Q: Can I bring pets along on a fall foliage drive? A: Yes, pets are welcome in many areas, but leash laws and trail restrictions may apply. Bring water, waste bags, and consider whether your pet tolerates longer car rides well. Cooler autumn temperatures often make it more comfortable for pets. Q: Is there cell phone service on these routes? A: Coverage can be spotty, especially in mountainous or forested regions. Download maps and key information before leaving areas with reliable signal. Let someone know your travel plans if venturing into more remote territory. Q: What are some good apps or tools for fall foliage tracking? A: Try SmokyMountains.com’s interactive foliage map, local state park websites, or social media updates from travel photographers and tourism boards. Some hiking and navigation apps also feature current user-submitted trail and color conditions. Q: Are there family-friendly stops or attractions along the routes? A: Absolutely—many routes are near u-pick orchards, pumpkin patches, nature centers, and short hiking trails perfect for all ages. Towns like Leavenworth and Hood River also offer fall festivals, cider tastings, and kid-friendly events during the season. Did we leave out your favorite leaf-peeping destination? Tell us about it in the comments below!
