It may be November, but in California, fall is far from over. It’s time to break out the Blundstones, cozy scarves, travel mugs, and sunglasses because there’s no better time to get outside and explore the great outdoors.
Sacramento summers are hot! Scorching, sidewalk-sizzling, AC-blasting hot. And while lots of people love and appreciate that about our area, others prefer the slightly breezier, more temperate fall days. If you’re one of the latter, now’s the perfect time to check out these fantastic outdoor locations.
You won’t be-leaf the amazing variety of colors, shapes, and patterns that Northern California’s fall foliage has to offer.
Bishop Creek Canyon
There’s nothing quite like Bishop Creek Canyon in the fall. Whether you’re out to catch a glimpse of the flora and fauna, the peaceful, glassy lakes, the eye-wateringly blue sky, or the rugged mountain peaks, you’re sure to find something extraordinary at Bishop Creek. Trek through the massive canyon, enjoy burbling creeks and keep an eye out for native wildlife. This spot is truly a sight for sore eyes and a natural haven in all seasons.
Hope Valley
A little further north towards Lake Tahoe, Hope Valley is home to some of the most stunning displays of autumn leaves that California offers. This serene landscape boasts miles and miles of uninterrupted beauty. Groves of aspens give way to picturesque mountains, cut through by a curving lake. Located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains and bordered by the Carson Pass, this placid valley is a gorgeous spot for hiking in the fall and snowshoeing in the winter. The basin itself is relatively flat, which means that you can get a 360-degree view of the surrounding foliage at any moment. It is truly nature at its finest!
Yosemite National Park
No list of the Sunshine State’s natural attractions would be complete without mentioning Yosemite National Park. With 1,200 square miles of astonishing natural features, Yosemite is a monument to nature’s grandeur and beauty. This is a spot to take in the very best of what California has to offer, and there’s no shortage of places to visit. This park is absolutely massive, and you’re sure to find not only glorious fall colors but also incredible waterfalls, ancient glacier trails, towering sequoias, and vast expanses of meadows, forests, and pristine water.
If the colorful fall views are what you seek, make sure to stop and check out Tioga Road, Glacier Point Road, the Tuolumne Grove Trailhead, or the Yosemite Chapel area. Yosemite is breathtaking any time of year, but if you catch it in fall, you’ll get to witness it in its true splendor. For your efforts, you’ll be rewarded with fields of gold, burnt orange, rich browns, and vivid scarlet. There really is no better nature than that at Yosemite.
Well, what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore! What are your favorite No. Cal fall destinations? Drop us a line, and let’s compare notes.
