Want to be dazzled by Washington’s autumn foliage display? Take a hike.
Washington Trails Association
Washington’s diversity of flora in the mountains makes for a spectacular fall color display – from the deep reds of vine maple on the western slopes to the golden yellow of alpine larches in the east. But that’s not all that makes the hillsides light up in autumn – we have fiery oranges of huckleberry shrubs, brilliant yellows of the aspens, and pretty reds from a variety of different berries – often against a backdrop of crisp blue sky.
The cooler weather and shorter days of autumn also bring an increase in wildlife activity, as animals busy themselves gathering food and storing up calories for the long, sleepy winter. Songbirds are seen in much greater numbers, as they ditch their breeding territories and become friends again, flocking together to prepare for migration.
So pack an extra fleece, your camera and a thermos of hot chocolate or spiced cider, and get ready to fill your lungs with cool, crisp autumn air and take in a wonderful palette of Washington’s fall color.
Lake Ingalls
Location: Teanaway
Round Trip: 9.0 miles
Elevation Gain: 2500′ to 6500′
The pass on the way to Lake Ingalls puts on one of the best larch shows in the state year after year. Hundreds of stunning yellow trees shimmer in the sun. On a nice day, you might never even make it to the lake, which would be a shame because it is a pretty fabulous destination in its own right, with lofty Mount Stuart as a backdrop. However far you make it, be sure your camera battery is charged and your memory card empty for all the photos you are sure to take.
Blue Lake
Location: North Cascades Highway
Round Trip: 4.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 1050′ to 6250′
Imagine a short and easy hike to a beautiful, deep blue lake. Add in views of several stunning North Cascade peaks. Then ring the lake electric yellow of larches. Sound good? If so, definitely add this hike to your October larch march. The trail starts just past Rainy Pass and climbs to more than 6200 feet. It can be icy and snowy in October, so be prepared for all conditions.
Cowiche Canyon
Location: Near Yakima
Round Trip: 6.0 miles
Elevation Gain: 100′ to 1500′
Proof that not all fall color is found in the mountains. This rail-to-trail conversion near Yakima, consisting of four trailheads in two locations on more than 1,800 acres offer 14 miles of trails, is ablaze in October, from the reds of the sumac, dogwood and hawthorn to the yellows of willow, birch and aspen. Take a bike ride or a walk – the canyon is quite stunning in every season.
Granite Mountain
Location: Snoqualmie Pass – West
Round Trip: 8 miles
Elevation Gain: 3800′ to 5629′
Here’s a great hike to celebrate what excellent shape you’ve gotten yourself in over the summer! The huffing and puffing will reward you with the eruption of a psychedelic blast of fall color as you gain elevation, culminating in a spectacular view at the lookout summit.
Maple Pass Loop / Lake Ann
Location: North Cascades Highway
Round Trip: 7.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 2000′ to 6850′
Maple Pass is all about fall – spectacular colors, late-season huckleberries, and great views. A popular trail for alpine larch, peak viewing is usually mid-October. Bring your camera, because the bright yellow larches punching through the flaming undergrowth on a sunny fall day will make a spectacular memento of your trip. A great family hike, and a short side trip to Lake Ann makes a nice addition.
