When the leaves turn from green to a kaleidoscope of reds, oranges, and golds, there's no better time to hit the road and immerse yourself in the beauty of autumn.
I have the daily pleasure of living and working in beautiful Rancho Santa Fe. Still, when time allows, I love to go and explore the fall colors throughout our region. This age-old tradition has seen renewed interest of late and it has a fun new name too: leaf peeping!
Here are a few of my recommendations for your next leaf-peeping road trip out of SoCal, to make the most of nature's magnificent display of fall foliage.
But First: Why Go Leaf Peeping
There's something magical about the changing of the seasons, and fall may be the most enchanting time of all. In case autumn’s colorful display is not enough to tempt you outside, here are a few more reasons to escape on a leaf-peeping road trip:
- Disconnect from the noise. Slow down and step away from the usual pace of life and spend time outdoors where the focus is on the view, not a screen.
- Enjoy simple moments. The crunch of leaves, cool air, and even the excuse to pull out a sweater make the season worth the trip.
- Explore new destinations. Leaf peeping turns a road trip into more than just scenery, with stops through charming small towns, national parks, and even farm stands for seasonal local goods.
Where to Peep Fall Foliage from Southern California
Across California, state parks showcase fall in ways that are both impressive and close to home. Here are destinations worth the drive when you’re ready to trade palm trees for autumn leaves.
1. Cuyamaca Rancho State Park | San Diego County
Located just an hour northeast of San Diego, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park is known for its beautiful black oaks, which turn a stunning golden yellow in the fall. The park offers hiking trails, camping, and breathtaking views of the colorful landscape.
2. Julian | California
A short drive from Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, the historic town of Julian, CA is another must-visit and a local favorite for fall color enthusiasts. Stroll down Main Street, sample the famous apple pie, sip on hot apple cider, and take in the rich autumn hues of the local oak and maple trees.
3. Palomar Mountain State Park | San Diego County
Courtesy of California State Parks, 2025
Palomar Mountain State Park showcases autumn with bracken ferns in the meadows turning golden brown against the dark green forests. Visitors can hike through Doane Valley, cast a line at Doane Pond, or head up to Boucher Hill for sweeping views before setting up camp for the night.
4. Plumas-Eureka State Park | Plumas County
Courtesy of California State Parks, 2025
For those willing to venture further north, Plumas-Eureka State Park in the Sierra Nevada mountains offers a stunning autumn landscape with a mix of trees that change colors in the fall and evergreens. The park's hiking trails provide ample opportunity to indulge in the colorful scenery.
5. Yosemite National Park | California
For a weekend getaway with some of the state’s best autumn scenery, Yosemite National Park is a world-renowned destination that's breathtaking any time of year. In the fall, the valley's black oaks turn a golden hue, while the dogwoods display fiery reds. While spring brings peak waterfall season, Vernal and Nevada Falls often continue flowing into autumn.
6. June Lake Loop | California
The June Lake Loop, located north of Mammoth Lakes, is a scenic drive that showcases the vibrant fall colors of the Eastern Sierra. The aspen-lined shores of June, Gull, Silver, and Grant Lakes burst with gold and orange hues in late September and early October.
7. McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park | Shasta County
This Northern California park features an array of fall colors, from the bright yellows of big leaf maples to the reds of California black oaks. Mid-October is typically the best time to visit McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park. The park also features the stunning 129-foot Burney Falls.
Raquel Benguiat's Insider Tips
As you plan your fall road trip, here are a few of my tips to make the journey easier and more enjoyable.
- Plan ahead. Check the Fall Foliage Prediction Map to time your trip for peak color. Book your hotels in advance, especially if you want nicer accommodations, since rooms can fill up quickly during peak leaf-peeping season.
- Pack smart. Bring layers, as fall temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery! Pack plenty of snacks and water to keep everyone happy and hydrated, especially if you'll be driving at high altitudes.
- Be a little spontaneous. Have a general itinerary, but leave space for detours and discoveries. Some of the most memorable parts of a road trip come from unplanned stops like quirky roadside attractions, local wineries and fruit stands, or scenic overlooks you didn’t expect.
- Go beyond the usual chains. Roadside diners, food trucks, and yes, even gas stations, may surprise you with their tasty regional food. Don't just settle for fast food, look out for unique local flavors.
- Take care of your car. Before hitting the road, make sure your tires are filled, fluids are topped off, and your car is in good shape to avoid any mishaps. Pack a "car bag" with cleaning supplies, a jack, tools, and a flashlight just in case.
- Limit your daily drive time. On longer trips, to fully enjoy the journey and have time for impromptu stops and explorations, plan to drive no more than 4-6 hours each day.
Find More Fall Beauty Close to Home!
Fall in California doesn’t need to be grand to be memorable. Local trails, mountain roads, and even a short drive outside San Diego reveal the color and change that make the season stand out. Explore my Neighborhood Guides and City Guides to discover the beauty right here in our own backyard.
Happy leaf peeping!
To learn more about dining, travel, local events, and trends in luxury lifestyles, visit my blog. And don't forget to subscribe to my newsletter for updates on luxury real estate and San Diego's best-kept secrets! Talk soon.
