Looking for Fall foliage?

Happy Fall! Contrary to popular opinion, the West Coast still does have fall foliage and changing leaves, with the Bay Area housing some of the best trails and parks to view the full Fall experience. The Bay Area’s mild winter climate makes it perfect for a sunrise or sunset walk amongst the trees. Here are some of our favorite spots to see the Bay’s Fall foliage:

1. Japanese Tea Garden, San Francisco: This iconic SF garden, located within Golden Gate Park, houses some of the most impressive fall foliage in the city. With large Japanese Maples set alongside pagodas, zen gardens, and a koi pond, this is the oldest public Japanese garden in the country. The gardens are free and open all winter from 9am to 4:45pm Monday through Sunday.  
2. Filoli Gardens, Woodside: The Peninsula’s very own world-renowned gardens are home to 16 acres of over 250 different types of fruit trees and other greenery. It is open daily from 10am to 5pm, with reservations available here. This fall, it is also housing special orchard days, and a Halloween experience through the 31st! 
3. Rancho San Antonio Preserve, Cupertino: Located near Stanford University, this public park has countless maple, oak, and persimmon trees that change colors with the seasons! With over 25 miles of hiking trails, this park is one of the Bay Area’s best options to experience its famous fall foliage. Located inside the park is Deer Hollow Farm, with cows, pigs, goats, sheep, and other farm animals available to the public!
4. Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, Calistoga: Though a little bit outside of the Bay Area, this Napa park is a perfect day trip to see the Bay Area’s fall foliage, and our impressive Redwood trees. In addition to its iconic giant redwoods, the park has Maple trees and incredible scenery. 

… and many more! You may want to look at this site to view an interactive California fall foliage map.  We hope you enjoy the Fall season in the Bay Area!

More Helpful Articles