In Spite of COVID-19 and Wildfires, Autumn is Still Beautiful in Northern California
Image from Pixabay
Introduction
The past six to seven months have been challenging for California. Between the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the devastating wildfires, residents, visitors, and tourists have faced unprecedented uncertainty and disruptions. While the enjoyment of the magnificent autumn season may feel as if it must be postponed until next year, there are still some beautiful sights and activities to experience this fall. Whether you’re seeking solace in nature or planning your 2021 adventures, here are some must-see spots in Northern California where autumn’s beauty is on full display.
Northern California's Best Spots for Fall Foliage
A Scenic View of Mammoth Lake Surrounded by Mountains - Image by hellowsun on Pixabay
For East Coast transplants missing the vibrant colors of Vermont, a drive through Northern California can offer a stunning alternative. Northern California boasts miles of forests, vineyards, and mountain ranges that provide the perfect backdrop for the season's changing colors. Here are some of the best spots in Northern California to witness the splendor of fall foliage.
Mammoth Lakes
Nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains, the town of Mammoth Lakes is a breathtaking destination during the autumn season. The leaves turn a brilliant yellow, creating a striking contrast against the rugged mountain landscape. In addition to the vibrant foliage, Mammoth Lakes is home to the Devils Postpile National Monument, which protects one of the world's finest examples of columnar basalt. These towering formations, reaching up to sixty feet in height, are a geologic marvel. Nearby, the 101-foot-high Rainbow Falls along the San Joaquin River offers a stunning display of nature's beauty, surrounded by the lush greenery that makes this area a year-round wonder. During the fall, however, the scenery transforms into a dreamlike panorama of color.
Avenue of the Giants
Curved Road Passing Through Majestic Redwood Trees
A drive through the Avenue of the Giants, a scenic highway that winds through Humboldt Redwoods State Park, offers a truly awe-inspiring experience. This iconic route showcases the majestic redwoods in their full autumn splendor. The towering trees, some of the tallest and oldest in the world, provide a stunning contrast to the vibrant fall colors that surround them. The Avenue of the Giants is not just a drive; it's an immersive journey through one of nature's most magnificent displays.
Plumas County
Plumas County is renowned for its spectacular autumn display. As you drive along Highway 89, you'll be treated to a breathtaking array of fall colors. Because of its lower elevation compared to the rest of the northern Sierra Nevada mountains, the fall colors in Plumas County tend to last longer, giving you more time to enjoy the vibrant hues. This area is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the full glory of Northern California’s autumn.
Sugarloaf Ridge Park
Did you know that the pine needles of redwoods change color in the fall? This unexpected phenomenon makes Sugarloaf Ridge State Park a unique destination during the autumn months. Located in the Mayacamas Mountains, this park offers an enchanting setting to observe the delicate needles as they change color and gently fall to the forest floor. It’s not just the leaves that transform—Sugarloaf Ridge is a place where autumn’s magic unfolds in subtle yet captivating ways.
Napa Valley
A Beautiful Napa Valley Vineyard with Autumn Colors
Napa Valley is famous for its vineyards, and during the fall, the region is transformed into a vivid tapestry of colors. As the grapevines change with the season, they display a stunning array of rich golds, deep garnets, and vibrant oranges. The vineyards become a breathtaking canvas of color and texture, stretching from the treetops to the ground. A visit to Napa Valley in the fall is not complete without stopping for a glass of wine at one of the many world-class wineries, where you can relax and take in the scenery that makes this region so special.
Hope Valley
While the peak of autumn in Hope Valley usually occurs as early as mid-September, it’s a destination worth marking on your calendar for next year. The thick forests in Hope Valley create a mesmerizing display of fall colors that is nothing short of captivating. Whether you explore the east or west side of the valley, you’ll be treated to stunning views that embody the essence of autumn. Nearby, South Lake Tahoe offers even more spectacular scenery as the season makes its grand entrance.
Staying Safe and Enjoying Nature
While this year has presented its challenges, the beauty of Northern California’s autumn remains a source of comfort and inspiration. At Arborist Now, we hope you found our list of beautiful areas to visit in Northern California helpful. We encourage everyone to stay healthy and safe during these difficult times.
If you’re considering planting trees on your property in the San Francisco Bay area, Arborist Now is here to assist. Contact us today for expert advice and professional services to help you create a thriving landscape that will be a joy to experience in every season.
Originally posted on October 12, 2020.
