Most Oregonians will tell you that their favorite season is mid-September to late-October. During this time, the weather has cooled off, but the fall rains have not yet returned in force.
Most touristy spots have started to wind down as the peak travel season is in the rearview mirror, which means normally busy spots become far more manageable.
In the forests around the state, the vine maples begin showing their fall colors, and the larch trees around Mt. Hood and Central Oregon start their transition to a stunning golden hue.
So, if you’re looking to get out and explore the state this October, here are six of our absolute favorite things to do in Oregon.
Go Apple Picking in Hood River
Hood River and the hills above the town are home to miles of apple and pear orchards that open up to visitors during the fall picking season. Here, you can walk through rows with dozens of varieties of apples and pears, from the common red delicious to little-known Asian pears.
The thing that really sets this area apart, though, is the views. Mt. Hood stands tall over this region and is visible from many of the farms.
Mt. View Orchards is a popular spot for many folks making the trek out from Portland or Bend as they are home to a massive orchard, brew their own beer and wine, and offer some of the best views of Mt. Hood you’ll find in the area.
If you’re looking for the best selection of Asian pears, then head just up the road to Kiyokawa Orchard. They boast a selection of more than 15 varieties of Asian pear alone!
Hike by Waterfalls in Silver Falls State Park
Silver Falls State Park is a wonderful place to visit any time of year, but, in our opinion, the fall is when it really comes alive.
It is during this time that the falls begin to emerge from their summer slumber as the rains return, and the big leaf and vine maples that line the trails and surround the falls change from green to shades of yellow, orange, and red.
Take a hike along the Trail of Ten Falls to see the best this park has to offer. Along the way, you’ll find yourself passing behind waterfalls and by views that must be seen in person to truly appreciate.
Go Leaf Peeping Along the Mckenzie Highway
If you drive along any mountain roads in western Oregon during the fall, you’ll notice that the forests are filled with colorful yet small maple trees that turn a vibrant red color.
These small trees are vine maples, and they quickly grow in along cleared areas, which makes driving an absolute treat.
One of our favorite drives is along the McKenzie Pass Highway, which travels from the central Oregon town of Sisters up and over the lava-covered McKenzie Pass and down into the McKenzie River area.
While the east side of the route is primarily for forests and lava fields, once you drop into the steep switchbacking road on the west side, you’ll see what all the fuss is about. Here, the forests quickly turn into a lush canopy dominated by giant firs, big leaf maples, and vine maples lining the roadside.
Time it right, and you’ll think you’ve been transported to the Northeast and its famous leaf-peeping.
Forage for the Oregon State Mushroom
Once the fall rains begin, the forest floors begin to show signs of one of the state’s most sought-after culinary delights. Along most forests from the coast to the Cascades, you can find the Pacific golden chanterelle growing up and showing off its beautiful golden color.
Every mushroom forager has their own secret spot to find this delightful gift from the forest. But if you’re just starting out, then this is a great mushroom to go after, as they grow in huge numbers and can often be found right alongside popular trails.
Note that a few lookalike mushrooms also grow around the golden chanterelle, so it is worth attending a group foraging outing with your local mycological society to learn how to identify these spectacular fungi.
Go to A Pumpkin Patch on Sauvie Island
Pack up the family and head out to Portland’s backyard farm on Sauvie Island. During October weekends, it can feel like half the city is out here searching for the perfect gourde, getting lost in corn mazes, and taking in the fall festival activities.
That is all part of the fun, though, as everyone typically comes out looking for a good time, and once you’re in the fields, there is plenty of room to spread out.
Hunt for Golden Larch in Central Oregon
The Washington Cascades, specifically the Enchantments and North Cascades, are famous for their larch season. Every year, thousands of hikers descend on these regions, hoping to get the chance to photograph these famous golden trees.
But did you know that Oregon is home to its own groves of Larch? Mt. Hood, specifically around Lookout Mountain, is home to patches of these incredible trees.
However, the easiest access is in Central Oregon, where you can drive right up to forests whose floors have turned completely gold by the falling needles.
Look for these incredible trees around Camp Sherman outside of Sisters or in Shevlin Park in Bend.
