Fall is a fantastic season to visit the PNW. These underrated fall destinations in the Pacific Northwest are places you would not normally expect to visit but are truly hidden gems in the area. Many people will continue to flock to Seattle, Portland, and Boise, but you will not be sorry visiting more of these amazing places.
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Underrated Fall Destinations in Oregon
Eastern Oregon
By Nina and Garrett of Oregon is for Adventure
When it comes to underrated fall destinations in the Pacific Northwest, Eastern Oregon has to take the cake! This is one of the most stunning areas of the state yet, so few people make it this way. Portland and the coast steal the show, but now you know where to go if you want to see Oregon’s other side (literally).
There are plenty of things to do in Eastern Oregon, but you’ll need about a week to truly see it all and be ready for a decent amount of driving. You are best off doing this on a road trip in a van or with a tent so you can camp along the way. Not only does this keep your budget low, but hotels are few and far between in some areas! There are three main areas to visit…
Starting in the northeast, the first area you should see is The Wallows. Here you’ll get some views that are familiar with Oregon. Stunning lakes, incredible hikes, and mountain vistas galore. Kayak on Lake Wallowa and then take the tram up to the top of Mount Howard for stunning views over the area.
After that, start driving down towards Owyhee Canyonlands. This is where you’ll enter alien territory and be transported to another planet. The best thing to do here is hike in the Leslie Gulch and Succor Creek areas, where you’ll be roaming around incredible rock formations and be what feels like a million miles from civilization. There are no hotels or cell service in these parts!
Continuing south, you’ll then stumble upon Steens Mountain and the Alvord Desert. You can camp in the desert for free, visit the hot spring here, and drive the Steens Mountain Loop for otherworldly canyon views.
The fall is a great time to visit this area as the weather will cool down, but you will need to look out for fires. This is a remote area of the state, and you’re closer to towns in Idaho than in Oregon! Download maps, make sure to have a safety kit, and have fun!
The Southern Oregon Coast
By Emily from The Mandagies
The Southern Oregon Coast is one of the coolest and most underrated fall destinations in the Pacific Northwest! If you’re looking to escape the crowds of Cannon Beach and seek more solitude on the shoreline, you’ll surely find it here! The Southern Coast of Oregon spans from Coos Bay to Brookings, providing visitors with quirky towns, secluded beaches, and incredible hiking opportunities. It’s a little harder to reach than most places on the coast, which is why it’s underrated!
You can see most Southern Oregon Coast highlights in 2 full days. Unlike the rest of the Pacific Northwest, this part of the Oregon Coast is known as Oregon’s “Banana Belt” meaning there are more than average sunny days than the rest of the coast.
A car is most definitely needed to get around this area. The easiest and most common way to reach the Southern Oregon Coast is flying into Portland, Eugene, or Roseburg. You can keep costs down by driving your own car to the coast, but regardless, a trip here is fairly inexpensive. You can find adorable bed and breakfasts, small motels, and abundant vacation homes to rent while you’re here. The best places to book a stay are in Brookings, Gold Beach, and Coos Bay.
Some of the most iconic things to do here are hiking and photography! Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint, Cape Blanco State Park, Samuel H. Boardman, and Otter Point State Recreation Area should definitely be high on your bucket list for both of these activities.
Silver Falls State Park
By Sophie of We Dream of Travel
Established 1933, Silver Falls State Park encompasses 9,000 acres of beautiful, dense rainforest and is the largest state park in Oregon. There are an abundance of breathtaking waterfalls throughout the park which can be discovered on the famous Trail of Ten Falls hike.
While this park is spectacular at any time of the year, it is truly special in the fall when the waterfalls are roaring and surrounded by golden hues. It is one of the most underrated fall destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
Although many stop by on a day trip from Portland, it is well worth spending at least one to two nights here to really explore, particularly later in fall as the day lengths shorten.
A fall vacation here is an outdoor lovers’ dream with over 35 miles of backcountry trails within the park, which are ideal for biking, hiking, or horseback riding.
Spending 2-3 days here allows you to explore a number of hikes. Make sure one of these is the Trail of Ten Falls, along which you will get to see at least 10 waterfalls, including walking behind three of them!
For another unique experience, consider booking a tree-climbing adventure. It is now possible to climb some of the largest and rarest trees in the world, to take in the park from a whole new vantage point with a Tree Climbing at Silver Falls ecotour.
Smith Creek Village offers the only lodging in the park. Here you’ll find highly-rated cabins and cottages for the perfect fall getaway. For the more adventurous, camping is available at South Falls campground. However, from November to April only the electrical sites are open.
Silver Falls State Park is located on Highway 214 near Silverton, about 25 miles (40km) southeast of Salem and 55 miles south of Portland. There are no public transport options so you will need a vehicle to get here.
Bandon
By Tammi of Wander Healthy
Bandon, Oregon, about 25 miles south of Coos Bay, is one of the underrated fall destinations in the Pacific Northwest for stunning coastal scenery, rugged cliffs, beautiful beaches and peaceful getaways.
Average high temperatures in Bandon in September range from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit, dropping further in October and November. Average low temperatures tend to be in the 50s Fahrenheit during this time. Fall lighting and potential stormy weather can lead to dramatic and breathtaking photo opportunities along the coast. Sunsets, stormy seas, and misty landscapes can make for some seriously stunning pictures.
Bandon offers many outdoor activities such as beachcombing, hiking, and exploring tide pools. The cooler fall temperatures can make these activities more comfortable and less crowded than during the summer months. All of these are free or relatively inexpensive.
You might also consider visiting Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint and Coquille River Lighthouse, the two most popular destinations near Bandon. The must-see lighthouse can be reached via Bullards Beach State Park, another delightful place to visit.
A long weekend is the perfect length of time to relax and explore the city. To get to Bandon from Portland, Oregon, it’s best to drive yourself as public transportation would make for a very long road trip and you’ll then be able to explore on your own as much as you desire. It’s just over a 4 hour drive from Portland, longer if you decide to extend your road trip by driving along the coast.
There are several budget-friendly accommodation options for you to choose from. Bandon has a variety of motels and inns that offer affordable rates, especially in the fall and winter. If you’re open to camping, there are campgrounds and RV parks in and around Bandon. These options can be very budget-friendly, especially if you have your own camping equipment.
John Day Fossil Beds National Monument
By Jacoba of Op Reis Met Co
Autumn at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is an enchanting experience for everyone who wants to explore a beautiful, unknown landscape. John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, nestled in eastern Oregon, is a geological wonderland that preserves an astonishing array of fossils dating back millions of years. It is one of the most underrated fall destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
Its three units, the Painted Hills, Sheep Rock, and Clarno, each offer a unique glimpse into the ancient past with their vibrant colors and well-preserved fossils. Entrance to John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is free.
To get to this hidden gem, having a car is essential. Fly into a major U.S. airport and embark on a picturesque drive to eastern Oregon, where the monument is nestled.
The best way to see the monument is to go hiking. All units have several hiking trails for you to explore, from the epic Blue Basin Overlook Trail in the Sheep Rock Unit to the panoramic Carroll Rim Trail View Point in the Painted Hills Unit.
When you visit John Day Fossil Beds in Autumn, you’ll be greeted by mild daytime temperatures ranging from 60 to 70°F, making it an ideal time to explore. Make sure to pack layers for the cooler evenings.
For accommodation, consider staying in either Mitchell or John Day. Both are very charming small towns and conveniently located.
The allure of John Day Fossil Beds lies in its underrated status. It’s not as crowded as some of the national parks, allowing you to revel in solitude and connect with nature. It’s a place where you can truly escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Willamette National Forest
By Jessica of Uprooted Traveler
While Oregon is renowned for its natural beauty, there are still definitely a few gems that are a bit more under-the-radar, like the Willamette National Forest. Located in central Oregon, the Willamette National Forest sprawls across almost 700 square miles, with rushing rivers, lush pine tree forests, and the towering Cascades in its footprint.
Fall is a lovely time to visit the national forest. While most of its trees are coniferous, you’ll still find a number of deciduous trees, like bigleaf maple and oak, dotted across its rolling hills—come autumn, these trees turn dazzling shades of gold, burnt orange, and scarlet.
Another reason fall is an awesome time to visit? There’s a number of natural hot springs within the national forest—and what could be better than soaking in a pool of steamy hot water amidst the crisp autumn air? For example, McCredie Hot Springs, tucked outside the teeny town of Oakride, offers five pools of various sizes to relax in, all while you’re overlooking the rushing waters of Salt Creek.
You could spend months exploring all of the hiking trails, campgrounds, and hot springs in the national forest, but you could hit many of its best highlights over the course of three days. Alternatively, you could combine visiting Willamette National Forest with some of its more popular neighbors, like Bend and Crater Lake, into a longer road trip.
The weather in fall is generally pleasant, with highs in the mid-60s and lows in the mid-40s. As the autumn wears on, you’ll have a higher chance of getting a rainy day—so be sure to bring your rain jacket!
The best way to get to the Willamette National Forest is to fly into Portland International Airport and drive three hours southeast. This area is rather remote, you’ll need a car to get around. Nevertheless, it is still one of the most underrated fall destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
Given the national forest’s expansive size, you’ll likely have to drive quite a bit to some points of interest, but Eagle Rock Lodge in the teeny town of Vida is a good springboard to see some of its most popular sites. This cozy lodge is perfect for a fall getaway, with plush robes in every room, a fire pit overlooking a river, and a complimentary snack and wine bar at the ready.
Ashland
By Anu of Destination Checkoff
Ashland, nestled in southern Oregon, is one of the underrated fall destinations in the Pacific Northwest that deserves a visit. This small town is full of charm and natural landscapes and is ideal for a weekend visit. Spending at least two to three days here is ideal to fully immerse in its charm. During fall, the weather is crisp, with temperatures ranging from the 50s to 70s, making it perfect for outdoor exploration.
A car is recommended to get to Ashland from the nearby big cities of Portland or San Francisco. The best place to stay is in the heart of downtown Ashland, where you can easily access the vibrant arts scene and indulge in local cuisine. Staying in an Ashland bed and breakfast perfectly complements this quaint and unique town. The McCall House is a historic Inn and ideal for a stay in downtown Ashland.
Popular activities in the fall include attending the renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival, which occurs from April to December. Lithia Park is great for hiking or strolling the numerous trails here or just enjoying the peaceful and serene nature. There are several wineries nearby if you wish to take a winery tour.
Ashland’s underrated status means fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere. Budget-wise, it can be affordable if you opt for mid-range accommodations and dine at local eateries, making it an inviting fall destination in Oregon.
Underrated Fall Destinations in Washington
North Cascades National Park
By Nina and Garrett of Washington is for Adventure
North Cascades National Park is a true gem for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Why is this one of the least visited national parks in the country?! We may never know! Spanning a breathtaking landscape of rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and lush forests, this park offers an escape from Seattle about four hours north.
What makes North Cascades so great? Imagine being surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks and glimmering glaciers where you don’t have to fight for views or have hoards of others with you at trailheads. These things make it one of the most underrated fall destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
One of the park’s standout experiences is the Chain Lakes Loop hike. This trail takes you on a journey through alpine meadows alongside clear mountain lakes and offers jaw-dropping vistas of the surrounding peaks. If you only do one hike in the North Cascades, let it be this one! It’s a moderate 6-mile loop, but if you want something a bit more tame, hang out in the Bagley Lakes area, which has some easier but equally stunning hikes.
It’s best to visit for a weekend to see the stunning mountainscapes and get a few good hikes in. Along Mount Baker Highway, on the way to the main area of the park, you’ll find some hotels and lodges, but once you’re in the park, there are only a few campsites for the more adventurous to pitch a tent.
The best part is you can visit this spot on a budget! All you need is your car to get here, but entrance is free! And if you’re camping? Then your weekend here won’t cost much.
Make sure to bring warm clothing when visiting in the fall as temperatures can drop quickly and get chilly when you’re heading up the mountains even with the sun on full blast. It’s also worth noting that you should check for fires in the area when visiting during the fall months.
This park is truly an underrated gem in the PNW and is bound to leave you in awe so don’t miss it!
Winthrop
By Marissa of Road Trip Wanderers
Winthrop, Washington, is located in Methow Valley, on the east end of North Cascades National Park. Spending two to three days there is perfect for soaking up the town’s Old West charm and outdoor activities. You can visit any time of the year, although the quickest way via the North Cascades Scenic Highway is closed during the winter, so the backroads will add on a few hours.
That said, winter is a popular time for cross-country skiing, as there are tons of trails to explore in the area. Summer is a common time to go hiking, both in Winthrop and the nearby national park, and if you visit during the fall, you may be lucky enough to spot the infamous larches.
However, there are plenty of things to do in Winthrop, even if you stay in the downtown area. All the shops and restaurants have an Old Western theme to their storefronts, so it’s fun to feel like you’ve stepped back in time. There are numerous gift shops, outdoor supply stores, and restaurants and cafes on the main avenue.
You’ll need a car to get here, as it’s about a four-hour drive from Seattle, and tours don’t tend to go here. While that may put some people off from visiting, that’s what makes it underrated – after traveling through the mountains, you’ll be in an adorable small town.
When it comes to lodging, downtown Winthrop is the place to be. Staying here puts you right in the midst of wooden boardwalks and rustic buildings, and you’re within walking distance of local boutiques and restaurants.
The beauty of this area is it can be as cheap as you want – budget hotels are available on the outskirts of town, or you can even camp nearby. Many activities are free, such as the town’s museum or all the outdoor recreation opportunities. Winthrop is one of the most underrated fall destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
Chelan
By Lauren of The Traveling Moore
Chelan is a popular summer destination in Washington State, but it is also one of the underrated fall destinations in the Pacific Northwest. People are missing out because autumn is truly the best season to visit Chelan. For one, it’s harvest season for local wineries, which means a ton of great wine tasting and wine events.
The weather is the perfect mild temperature that is great for outdoor activities, ranging from mid-70’s in September to mid-40’s in November. Finally, the crowds and costs are much more reasonable in fall compared to summer.
The best way to get to Chelan from Western Washington or other nearby towns is by driving. There is very little public transportation to the area. Once you arrive in Chelan, I recommend staying in town at Campbell’s resort to be close to restaurants and shopping. Alternatively, there are great vacation rentals with lakefront views that are ideal for large groups and families.
Some of the best things to do in Chelan in the fall are hiking, wine tasting, and boating. Fall is a great time for hiking in Chelan since the weather is mild. My favorite hike in Chelan is the Chelan Butte, which has great views of the lake.
My favorite activity in Chelan is wine tasting. Wineries offer tasting flights, live music, and outdoor activities for the whole family. It’s hard to beat relaxing on the patio of a winery with views of the lake and a glass of local wine in hand.
Finally, it’s super fun to go boating on the lake in the fall. In early fall, it may even be warm enough to swim. Later in the season, you can bundle up and take a scenic ride of the lake looking at the amazing views and lakefront properties.
Lake Stevens
By Taylor of Culture Craving Couple
Lake Stevens, Washington is a gorgeous, small town only 30 minutes from downtown Seattle and between many hiking trails. You only need 2 or 3 days here and this gives you enough time to check out the quaint downtown and some of the beautiful hikes in the area.
In the fall you can expect temperatures of 40-60 degrees F with cloudy skies and misty rain. You will fly into the Seattle Airport. From the airport, it is a 45-minute drive to Lake Stevens. Uber or Lyft also frequent the airport.
The Sunnyside Sanctuary is a great stay for the whole family. It’s right across the street from a corn maze and pumpkin patch in the fall and is only a 5-minute drive from downtown Lake Stevens.
In the fall, you can visit Carlton Farms which is the “famous” pumpkin patch and corn maze in the area. You have to try their pumpkin spice donuts that are made fresh each day! Lake Stevens is built around the lake which is great to relax by on a clear day. The town is also situated between many hiking areas, such as the beautiful Lake Twenty-Two.
Lake Stevens is a great destination for the whole family without having to stay in the busyness of downtown Seattle. Whether you are a hiking enthusiast or prefer a day spent with food and wine, or want family-friendly activities, there is something for everyone!
Lake Stevens is a great destination because it’s close to downtown Seattle but much cheaper to stay. You can find accommodations for around $200-300 per night. No matter what, Lake Stevens is one of the most underrated fall destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
Underrated Fall Destinations in Idaho
Stanley
By Candice of GS Ginger
Stanley, Idaho is a little town nestled at the foot of the Sawtooth Mountains that is beautiful beyond compare. If you’re looking for one of the most underrated fall destinations in the Pacific Northwest mountain getaway this fall, look no further than the rugged peaks and glistening lakes of Stanley.
It’s an amazing place to relax and reconnect with nature for those in need of a recharge. But it’s equally as enjoyable for thrill seekers looking to hike or bike through the gorgeous landscape. Keep in mind, because it’s a resort town, some things in Stanley can be expensive.
A long weekend, three or four days, would be an optimal amount of time to spend in Stanley. And because it’s a mountain town, you can expect crisp fall weather in September and October, with a significant dip in temperatures in November.
Stanley is a marvelous place to enjoy the outdoors. A visit to Redfish Lake is one of the best activities to do in Stanley, Idaho you just shouldn’t miss. It’s one of the most beautiful spots to visit in town. The sparkling alpine lake with the jagged sawtooth mountains as a backdrop leaves quite a memorable impression.
Other nearby lakes to visit that offer hiking, fishing, and wonderful fall picnic backdrops include Fourth of July Lake and Stanley Lake. If you’re more in the mood for warm relaxation, check out Kirkham Hot Springs and Sunbeam Hot Springs. Definitely plan on having access to a vehicle during your stay in Stanley, as many of the different landmarks and attractions are widely spread.
Redfish Riverside Inn is one of the best spots to stay when visiting Stanley. This property is located right along the Salmon River, and guests stay in cozy cabins equipped with kitchenettes. It’s a dream set-up for a fall trip to the mountains.
Craters of the Moon National Monument
By Anwar of Beyond My Door
Located in Eastern Idaho, Craters of the Moon National Monument offers visitors one of the most amazing volcanic areas in the United States. Named for its likeness to the moon (and it was even used to train lunar astronauts), the area has the remains of quite a few volcano types, including lava tubes that you can explore as “wild caves”. Be sure to have clothes that’s never been in another cave, as the wild caves house bats and they are trying to slow the progression of white-nose syndrome.
The fall is the best time to explore Craters of the Moon, as the weather is better during this time. With very hot and dry summers and cold (and snowy winters), fall offers visitors cooler temperatures, still long days, and generally drier times as well. It is one of the most underrated fall destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
The place is shockingly under-visited for what it offers. It’s one of the best national monuments in the system and a popular candidate to be a national park. Not being a national park is probably why it sees fewer visitors than it deserves.
For those planning to visit, about 1 or 2 days is probably enough for most people. Unless you plan to explore some of the further areas of the park (the park is massive, and only a small amount is road accessible), you can see most of the things in one full day. We recommend 2 days so you can enjoy and climb some of the volcano hills in the area as well as explore the area as well.
You’ll need a car to visit as it’s not connected by public transportation, and it’s about 3 hrs. (170 miles) from Boise. The park is a fee area, $20 or included in the America the Beautiful Annual Pass. Visitors can camp at the one campground at the national monument or stay in nearby Arco, ID. Arco is a cool little town with an interesting history of being the first town powered by nuclear power (based on work from nearby Idaho National Labs).
Most Underrated Fall Destinations in the Pacific Northwest
The PNW is an amazing place to visit during fall, with lots of great things to do and still gorgeous weather. You can visit many of the most underrated fall destinations in the Pacific Northwest by taking an Oregon or Washington road trip. No matter what, you will have an amazing time visiting the PNW during the fall. Make sure to check out these underrated summer destinations in the PNW as well.
