Where to see fall foliage near me? 🍁🍂
As summer's heat begins to wane and the days grow shorter, there's a magical transformation taking place in the landscape near Los Angeles. The vibrant hues of autumn foliage start to paint the scenery, creating a breathtaking tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. While Los Angeles may not be famous for its traditional fall foliage, the surrounding region boasts some truly enchanting spots to witness the beauty of the season. In this guide, we'll take you on a journey to discover the best places to see fall foliage near Los Angeles, where you can immerse yourself in the natural splendor of autumn without venturing too far from the city.
Here is a list of the best places near Los Angeles to see Fall foliage:
301 N Baldwin Ave
Arcadia, CA 91007
Nestled in the charming embrace of Rancho Santa Anita, the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden unfolds across an expansive 127 acres. As you explore this captivating haven, you'll embark on a journey through ten unique gardens and landscapes, each a testament to the mesmerizing palette of autumn's colors. Here, in the heart of Arcadia, you can immerse yourself in the seasonal spectacle as each garden offers its own interpretation of fall's splendid foliage. It's a place where nature's artistry is on full display, inviting you to wander and discover the diverse and vibrant tapestry of autumn hues that grace this botanical gem.
1925 Las Virgenes Rd
Calabasas, CA 91302
Malibu Creek State Park, just 25 miles from the bustling heart of Los Angeles, offers a perfect escape to bask in the autumnal splendor while embarking on a rejuvenating hike. However, the park's appeal doesn't stop at hiking; it opens its arms to a variety of outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're an angler casting a line into the serene waters, a bird watcher seeking the grace of avian visitors, a mountain biker conquering its scenic trails, or a horseback rider savoring a leisurely ride, Malibu Creek State Park has something for everyone.
For those looking to savor a leisurely afternoon, the picturesque Tapia Park, nestled in the heart of Malibu Creek, provides an idyllic spot for picnicking under the shade of magnificent oak trees. This park beckons you to unwind, reconnect with nature, and appreciate the beauty of fall in one of Southern California's most captivating natural settings.
1151 Oxford Rd
San Marino, CA 91108
The Huntington Botanical Gardens, boasting an impressive ensemble of 12 distinct gardens and an astounding array of 15,000 plant varieties, offer an ideal setting for your little ones to witness the enchanting transition of the seasons. As October and November unfurl, the gardens come alive with an abundance of fall-blooming plants, adding vibrant splashes of color to the landscape.
In the Children's Garden, a special place designed to spark wonder and curiosity in young minds, your kids can embark on an interactive journey through the marvels of the natural world. Here, sculptural elements invite exploration and engagement, making it the perfect place to introduce your children to the captivating beauty of the changing seasons while fostering a deep connection to the wonders of nature.
1418 Descanso Dr
La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
Descanso Gardens serves as a tranquil urban oasis, boasting captivating natural beauty that enchants visitors throughout the year. When the calendar turns to October and November, this enchanting garden takes on a new charm, offering a delightful display of Sasanqua, camellias, roses, and the rich, warm hues of fall foliage. As you explore, you'll also discover the vibrant toyon berries adding splashes of red and orange to the landscape. It's a time when Descanso Gardens truly comes alive with the vibrant colors and textures of autumn, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere for all who venture within.
9000 Pacific Coast
Hwy Malibu, CA 90265
Nestled within the breathtaking Santa Monica Mountains, Point Mugu State Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. This park is renowned for its well-frequented hiking trails, making it an ideal destination to revel in the splendor of autumn foliage. As the seasons transition into October and November, the landscape at Point Mugu State Park undergoes a captivating transformation, with trees adorning themselves in rich, fiery hues.
But the autumnal magic doesn't stop there. During these months, visitors also have the extraordinary opportunity to witness the mesmerizing migration of monarch butterflies, a phenomenon that adds an enchanting touch to your exploration of this natural haven. So, whether you're a hiker seeking scenic vistas or a butterfly enthusiast captivated by nature's wonders, Point Mugu State Park offers an unforgettable experience amid the fall beauty of the Santa Monica Mountains.
La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
Escape the city hustle and bustle and venture into the serene Angeles National Forest, where nature paints a mesmerizing tapestry of fall colors. Located just a short drive from Los Angeles, this vast forest is a haven for fall foliage enthusiasts. The San Gabriel Mountains within the forest offer a stunning backdrop for your autumn adventure, with a variety of trees, including oaks and maples, showcasing their vibrant hues. Drive along the scenic Angeles Crest Highway or embark on a hiking journey to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the fall season.
Oak Glen, CA
Nestled just a short 1 ½ hour drive from the bustling heart of Los Angeles, Oak Glen is a hidden gem renowned for its majestic oak trees and picturesque apple orchards that come alive in the autumn season. This tranquil haven transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of fall foliage, particularly along its rolling hillsides. A visit to Oak Glen offers a quintessential autumn experience, with vibrant colors adorning the landscape.
Amidst this scenic beauty, the historic schoolhouse museum stands as a charming centerpiece, surrounded by brilliant red maple trees that create a stunning backdrop for a family hike. Afterward, it's the perfect time to indulge in some apple picking at the nearby farms, making Oak Glen an idyllic destination to relish the full spectrum of fall's splendor.
San Marino, CA 91108
Lacy Park, a picturesque 30-acre oasis nestled at the heart of San Marino, offers a serene escape for nature lovers and autumn enthusiasts. This charming park boasts a delightful picnic area, expansive green spaces, and a diverse array of trees and shrubs that burst into vibrant hues during the fall season, typically from late October through mid-November. As the leaves paint the landscape with warm colors, children can revel in the simple joys of running over the fallen leaves with their bikes, scooters, or roller-skates, making Lacy Park a perfect family-friendly destination to embrace the beauty of autumn.
25225 Highway 243
Idyllwild, CA
Idyllwild Nature Center is an autumnal gem tucked away in the mountains, offering a peaceful and less crowded alternative to more popular fall destinations. The surrounding pine, cottonwood, and cedar trees create a vibrant display of gold, yellow, and orange hues in the latter part of October. What truly sets Idyllwild apart is its small-town charm, complete with locally-owned eateries and quaint shops, fostering a serene environment for leaf-peeping enthusiasts.
Before embarking on your leaf-peeping adventure, note that the Idyllwild Nature Center welcomes visitors from Wednesday to Sunday and requires a modest per-person entrance fee. This nature center serves as a wonderful starting point for your exploration of the region's natural beauty, providing valuable insights into the local ecosystem against the backdrop of the picturesque San Jacinto mountains.
Big Bear, CA
Embracing the beauty of fall in Southern California is made easy with a visit to Big Bear Lake. From mid-October through November, this stunning destination comes alive with the vibrant colors of autumn foliage. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in this natural spectacle is by taking a hike along the Castle Rock Trail, where you'll be treated to awe-inspiring autumn vistas that showcase the season's magnificence.
For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the Aspen Glen picnic area nestled within the San Bernardino National Forest offers a serene spot for a picnic amidst the picturesque fall scenery. Alternatively, hiking enthusiasts can explore the San Gorgonio Wilderness, where a diverse array of trees adorned with colorful leaves awaits, creating a memorable and immersive autumn experience in the heart of Big Bear.
Lake Arrowhead, CA
As autumn gracefully descends upon Lake Arrowhead, the surrounding woods become a canvas for nature's most spectacular show of colors. Starting in early September and lasting until November, the foliage season transforms this region into a breathtaking tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. Nestled in this picturesque setting, Lake Arrowhead offers an array of outdoor recreational activities, making it the perfect playground for fall enthusiasts.
Whether you're an avid hiker, backpacker, cyclist, or water sports enthusiast, Lake Arrowhead provides an abundance of opportunities to immerse yourself in the splendor of the season. From serene hikes through the vibrant forests to exhilarating water skiing adventures on the pristine lake, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy the autumnal beauty in this captivating destination. So, pack your hiking boots, fishing rod, or bicycle, and embark on a memorable journey to witness the magic of fall in the heart of Lake Arrowhead.
Mammoth Lake, CA
From the enchanting Rock Creek Canyon to the picturesque Lakes Basin and the charming Town of Mammoth Lakes, along with the invigorating Mammoth Rock Trail, this Eastern Sierra gem is currently showcasing its peak fall foliage. While the journey to Mammoth Lakes isn't a quick day trip (expect about a 5-hour drive from LA), it's well worth dedicating a weekend to immerse yourself in the stunning vistas of the Eastern Sierras during this magical season.
You May Also Enjoy:
