Best places for chasing Fall colors in Portland & nearby
Autumn season and its crisp air and beauty are here with us again, and Fall colors in Portland are a natural show you don’t want to miss.
I still remember, like yesterday, my first time enjoying Fall colors in Portland, Oregon, strolling in beautiful parks and gardens on rainy days, trying pumpkin flavors in everything, and visiting farms with my kids.
And after all these years living here, I still feel the same love for this season and all these new traditions we incorporated in our family.
Best spots to see Fall colors
Red, yellow, and orange tones mixed with lush greens will be everywhere in our city and surrounded areas; however, some destinations are the most spectacular in showing off colors.
Here are the top ten:
1. Hoyt Arboretum
Hoyt Arboretum features 12 miles of hiking trails and is located in beautiful Washington Park (2 miles from Downtown Portland). It’s the ideal place in the city to find inner peace and serenity while enjoying this museum of living trees.
With about 2,300 species of trees and shrubs, it’s easy to find all Fall color tones on this destination.
2. Japanese Garden
Another Washington Park’s gem is the Portland Japanese Garden, a must-see destination in our city, especially if you are looking for a serene place to slow down, take a break, and appreciate its tranquil beauty.
This beautifully manicured Garden is perfect for fall viewing.
3. Pittock Mansion and Forest Park
As one of the largest urban forests in the United States, Portland’s Forest Park is a unique natural escape on any given season. However, since nearly 50 percent of all trees in the park are bigleaf maples, it’s an Autumnal show to not miss during Fall.
There are more than 80 miles of trails in the park to enjoy, and particularly one the hike that is so beautiful to do in Fall is the Pittock Mansion Hike. That walk offers Fall foliage, magnificent trees, wonderful vistas, and the gorgeous gardens at Pittock Mansion.
4. Cathedral Park
Cathedral Park, located in North Portland by the Willamette River, offers a quiet and peaceful destination for strolling on its paved paths, having a picnic by the river, or enjoying the beauty of seasonal changes in Nature. However, the most notable feature is the only steel suspension bridge in Portland, the picturesque gothic-style St. Johns.
The distinctive cathedral-like gothic arches in the piers is a popular spot for a photo op and even for weddings.
5. Tryon Creek State Park
Tryon Creek State State Natural Area is located between Portland and Lake Oswego. This park includes a 650-acre-plus natural day-use area with 8 miles of hiking trails, 3.5 miles of horse trail, and a 3-mile paved bicycle trail. It’s absolutely magical in any season; however, during Fall, that combination between lush greens and beautiful yellow tones of the foliage is a unique experience that will make you forget you are just about 15 minutes from downtown Portland.
6. Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
Located in Portland, between Reed College and the Eastmoreland Golf Course, this beautiful garden is well known for the gorgeous Rhododendrons that typically bloom from late February through July.
Additionally is an excellent destination for bird watching, especially waterfowl. But still visiting this place in Fall is a must, since the display of autumnal colors is amazing.
7. Sauvie Island
Located Only minutes from downtown Portland, Sauvie Island is a gorgeous rural area with sandy beaches, natural areas, and beautiful farms. It’s a fantastic destination for choosing between many autumn harvest activities options, such as the classic pumpkin picking or corn maze, and more.
- Location: Sauvie Island
- Website.
8. Historic Columbia River Highway
One of the most scenic drives this time of year is the beautiful Historic Columbia River Highway, also known as the “King of Roads.”
Driving while enjoying vast views of Columbia River, Fall colors everywhere, and having so many unique spots to stop and hike, makes this road trip one of the most spectacular we have in Oregon.
There are also so many waterfalls you will find along the road, but the one you don’t want to miss is the stunning Multnomah Falls. And for views, don’t forget the Portland Women’s Forum State Scenic Viewpoint and the Vista House.
Vista House 
- Location: To begin your trip from Portland, take I-84 east to exit 17. Follow the signs through the town of Troutdale and over the Sandy River to the Historic Columbia River Highway. The highway finishes at the Dalles.
- Website.
9. Willamette wineries
Some of the most beautiful fall colors can also be found in the picturesque Willamette Valley wine country. You will love driving on these sceneries roads full of views with rolling green hills covered with yellow tones in the vines.
10. Your neighborhood!
Last but not least, you don’t need to travel far for enjoying Fall colors in Portland. Every neighborhood in our city has its beauty to show at this time of the year. Have fun making a collage of leaves, stepping on crunchy leaves and why not doing a leaves angel!
As you can see, there are tons of fun activities and beautiful destinations to appreciate the fantastic Fall colors in Portland and nearby!
What is your favorite?
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