Now is the time to lace up your hiking boots and hit the trail to experience the beauty of fall in the Eugene, Cascades & Coast region. Vibrant displays of orange, gold, and red contrast well against the deep green of Oregon’s Douglas Fir forests, making this region an unbeatable destination for fall adventurers.

Read on to find out which hikes boast some of the top fall color displays in the region, including family-friendly and accessible trails! However, as weather begins to change make sure to check TripCheck before departing for the latest updates on road and weather conditions.

Please note: The Old McKenzie Highway (Hwy 242) and a portion of the Aufderheide are closed for the season. Proxy Falls, Dee Wright Observatory and other nearby areas are currently not accessible. Please review www.tripcheck.com for detailed travel information.

Delta Old Growth –

Located on the Aufderheide Scenic Byway (another great fall adventure), the Delta Old Growth Grove Nature Trail is a wheelchair accessible loop trail that allows visitors to immerse themselves in ancient old growth forests.  

Proxy Falls –

The higher elevation of Proxy Falls makes this hike a great candidate for fall foliage hikes early in the autumn season. The bright-red displays of maple growing on the old lava rock make the landscape reminiscent of its volcanic history. And of course, the fanning Proxy Falls is a show-stopper year-round! Because Proxy Falls is located on the seasonally-open Old McKenzie Highway - Scenic Byway 242 make sure to check Trip Check before leaving on this hike!

Spencer Butte –

Located just outside of Downtown Eugene, Spencer Butte is well-recognized as one of Eugene’s most iconic “Urban Escapes.” Plan a clear day for this hike and be rewarded with panoramic views from the Willamette Valley to the Cascade Mountains, featuring a landscape of colorful foliage in the fall.

Middle Fork Path –

Connecting Clearwater Park and Dorris Ranch the Middle Fork Path is a four-mile long paved path weaving along the Willamette River. Plastered with fallen leaves, this path is a great option for walking, running and cycling through a canopy of fall trees.

Pinard, Spirit, and Moon Falls –

Right outside of Cottage Grove, Layng Creek is home to multiple dazzling waterfalls perfect for fall hiking. Ranging from 0.25 – 0.5 miles Pinard Falls, Spirit Falls and Moon Falls are a great trio to accomplish in one day!

Sweet Creek Falls –

With towering Big Leaf Maple trees and vibrantly colored Vine Maples, Sweet Creek Falls is a choice-pick for any fall lover! During this short hike discover multiple small pooling falls leading to the larger fall at the end of the path!