Best Places to See Fall Foliage in Northern California

Northern California might be famous for its coastline and wine country, but come fall, the region quietly transforms into a leaf-lover’s dream. From golden aspens in the Sierra to fiery maples in charming small towns, autumn in NorCal is spectacular—and wonderfully underrated.

Here are the best places to soak in fall color, whether you want an easy afternoon stroll or a weekend road trip bursting with reds, oranges, and gold.

Lake Tahoe (South & North Shore)

Best time: Late September–October

Lake Tahoe lights up with golden aspens that glow against the deep blue water—one of the most iconic fall scenes in California. Hit the trails, explore quiet beaches, or take a scenic drive around the lake.

Top spots:

• Hope Valley (legendary apline color!)

• Taylor Creek Visitor Center

• Eagle Falls & Emerald Bay

Hope Valley (Near Tahoe)

Best time: Early–mid October

Hope Valley is the fall foliage champion of Northern California. Rolling hills fill with shimmering yellow aspens that carpet the valley floor. Go for the views, stay for the photography gold.

Don’t miss:

• Around Sorensen’s Resort

• Blue Lakes Road

• Nearby Markleeville for leaf-lined backroads

Apple Hill (Placerville)

Best time: Mid October–early November

Pumpkins, cider donuts, apple orchards, and gorgeous fall color—Apple Hill is a quintessential autumn day trip. Expect vibrant reds and oranges from oaks, maples, and orchards set against rolling foothills.

Best stops:

• High Hill Ranch

• Boa Vista Orchards

• Delfino Farms

Napa Valley

Best time: Late October–mid November

Napa’s fall color is magical. The vineyards turn bright gold and deep burgundy, giving the entire valley a warm glow. It’s one of the most beautiful—and camera-worthy—times of the year to visit.

Leafy stops:

• Silverado Trail

• Yountville tasting rooms

• Calistoga backroads

Sonoma County

Best time: Late October–early November

Vineyards, redwoods, and charming small towns make Sonoma a diverse fall foliage destination. Expect fields of golden vines, bright maples throughout Healdsburg, and colorful park trails.

Top spots:

• Healdsburg Plaza

• Sonoma Valley Regional Park

• Russian River vineyards

Plumas County (The “Lost Sierra”)

Best time: Early–late October

This under-the-radar region explodes with fall color—massive groves of aspens, cottonwoods, and big-leaf maples drape the mountainside. It’s one of NorCal’s best-kept autumn secrets.

Where to go:

• Quincy

• Graeagle

• Lakes Basin Recreation Area

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Best time: Late September–mid October

Lassen offers a mix of high-alpine aspens and low-elevation color near Manzanita Lake. Fewer visitors in fall = peaceful trails and incredible scenery.

Best spots:

• Manzanita Lake Loop

• Hat Creek area

• Warner Valley

Chico & Bidwell Park

Best time: Late October–November

One of the largest municipal parks in the U.S., Bidwell bursts with bright oranges and reds along Big Chico Creek. It’s an easy, family-friendly spot for crisp fall walks.

Don’t miss:

• Upper Bidwell’s canyon views

• Lower Park’s tree-lined trails

• Downtown Chico’s vibrant street trees