Visiting Crater Lake National Park in the fall is an unforgettable experience that will lead to lifelong memories. Golden foliage contrasts with the lake’s stunning blue waters, while crisp mountain air and cooler days create the perfect atmosphere for exploring. There’s plenty to experience throughout the season, whether you hop on your bike or drive along Rim Drive and take in stunning views to hiking through forests of golden foliage. You can even hop aboard a trolley tour for a relaxing way to take in the goegeous park scenery and learn more about the park and its history.

Must do hikes at Crater Lake:

Plaikni Falls-This easy one-mile trail winds through an old-growth forest to a picturesque waterfall, featuring an accessible first section and crisp autumn air flowing through the canopy.

Garfield Peak Trail- This rocky climb leads to a breathtaking high-altitude overlook, offering panoramic views of Crater Lake surrounded by golden autumn foliage, rugged cliff edges, and chances to spot local pikas nestled in the rocks.

Discovery Point Trail- This trail winds through old-growth forest along the West Rim to deliver spectacular fall views of Wizard Island and the deep blue waters below.

Mount Scott- This gradual climb up the park's highest peak rewards morning hikers with ideal sunlight across Crater Lake, sweeping views in all directions, and stunning autumn colors across the caldera.

Annie Creek Trail- Carved into a 200-foot layer of historic volcanic ash, this moderately strenuous loop winds through a deep, stream-cut canyon vibrant with autumn colors, and lush plant life.

Note: Please be advised that sections of Rim Drive or certain trails may be closed during the snowy season depending on weather conditions.

Fall brings a spectacular transformation to the Klamath Basin as migrating birds begin making their way south along the Pacific Flyway. With a network of national wildlife refuges, wetlands, lakes, and waterways, the basin provides vital places for birds to rest, feed, and refuel during their long journeys. The region is an important stopover for hundreds of bird species, making fall an especially exciting time to explore its wildlife-rich landscapes.

Keep your eyes to the skies and wetlands for majestic bald eagles, graceful sandhill cranes, and an incredible variety of waterfowl, including ducks, geese, tundra swans, and more. Early fall marks the beginning of the waterfowl migration, with species such as northern pintails and greater white-fronted geese arriving as the season progresses. By late fall and into winter, the number of migrating and wintering birds can grow dramatically, creating unforgettable wildlife-viewing opportunities across the basin.

Whether you’re an experienced birder with binoculars in hand or simply enjoy spotting wildlife along a scenic drive or refuge trail, fall offers a chance to experience the Klamath Basin at one of its most vibrant times of year. Head out early, explore the refuges, and watch as thousands of birds fill the skies and wetlands along their seasonal journey.

Lava Beds National Monument makes for the ultimate fall day trip! Temperatures inside the lava tubes stay fairly consistent year-round, offering a unique escape from fluctuating autumn weather while you explore underground chambers created by ancient volcanic eruptions. The monument also stands as the historic site of the Modoc War, featuring numerous preserved landmarks where you can dive deep into regional history before emerging to take in the stunning autumn scenery above.

To get the most out of your journey, make your first stop at the Lava Beds Visitor Center. You can browse the gift shop, view historic artifacts, and pick up helpful park information, or even sign up for a guided tour to gain expert insights as you explore the volcanic landscape.

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Scarecrow Row: Visit downtown Klamath Falls for one of Klamath’s favorite fall traditions! On Saturday, October 24th | 9 a.m., join the community for Scarecrow Row and a festive costume parade. After the parade, keep the fun going as you explore downtown and enjoy the final Farmers Market of the season. With trick-or-treating, local shopping, delicious food, and fun activities for kids, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. It’s the perfect way to embrace the season, make fall memories with the family, and experience the best of downtown Klamath Falls!

Pumpkin Express at Train Mountain: Saturday October 17th & 24th | 10a.m.-3p.m. Train Mountain will be offering loads of fall fun with miniature train rides! This is a perfect fall event for the entire family!

Klamath County Pumpkin Festival: Get ready for a weekend full of fall fun at 541 Jump’s 4th Annual Pumpkin Festival! On October 3 | 10 a.m.–5 p.m. and October 4th | 10 a.m.–4 p.m., head to the Klamath County Fairgrounds for a pumpkin patch, family-friendly activities, food trucks serving seasonal treats, and inflatable bounce houses. Bring the whole family and enjoy a festive weekend filled with pumpkins, laughter, delicious food, and plenty of autumn fun!

Bales and Ales at Common Block: Join Common Block Brewing on October 11th | 12:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. for a fun fall community event! Enjoy pumpkin carving on the patio, savor Common Block’s latest seasonal brews, and groove to live music by Dana Wirth from 12:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m.

There’s nothing better than grabbing a hot drink from a local coffee shop and taking a leisurely stroll through downtown Klamath Falls. With several locally owned coffee shops to choose from, you can warm up with your favorite fall drink before browsing the many unique local shops. Spend an afternoon exploring downtown, finding something new, and enjoying a little retail therapy along the way.

The Ultimate Downtown Coffee Run:

B.S. Coffee CO-This local spot features smooth cold brew, chai tea, and matcha to power your morning. Alongside your favorite caffeine fix, you can browse through a fun selection of unique souvenirs and gifts.

Vintage Garage-This unique coffee shop serves unique drinks made with hand-crafted syrups. This is a favorite stop for locals looking for a quality caffeine fix!

Gathering Grounds-This cozy local coffee house and roastery serves handcrafted espresso drinks, specialty teas, and fresh breakfast items in a warm, welcoming space. It is a popular spot for relaxing, or meeting up with friends.

Brevada Brewhouse-This local spot offers delicious breakfast and lunch menus paired with specialty espresso drinks, custom beverages, and a cozy beer and wine bar for a relaxing evening out.

A Leap of Taste-This charming farm-to-table shop serves fresh, locally sourced sandwiches, wholesome soups, and a variety of specialty coffee drinks and beverages. It also features unique kitchen gifts in a warm, welcoming setting.

Jersey Boiis-Famous for delicious Italian-style focaccia sandwiches, this local favorite also features a full espresso bar and other handcrafted drinks!

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Paddling in the fall offers an incredible adventure- where crisp, cool air meets a stunning backdrop of radiant autumn foliage!

Upper Klamath Canoe Trail: If you love birdwatching under a crisp autumn sky, this is the ultimate fall paddle for you! Accessible from either Rocky Point or Malone Springs, this breathtaking 9.5-mile trail winds through amber-hued marshlands, golden forests, and cool springs. Along your kayaking adventure, you'll spot migrating waterfowl and native birds preparing for the season, native fish beneath fallen leaves, river otters, and deer along the shoreline.

Rocky Point Resort: Launching your kayak from Rocky Point in autumn offers an unforgettable journey through a glowing landscape of autumn foliage. Drift across misty waters as the crisp morning air carries the calls of migrating waterfowl across the bay.

Wood River: Launching your kayak from Jackson F. Kimball State Recreation Site in crisp autumn is pure magic, where the Wood River's headwaters glow a brilliant turquoise against vibrant fall foliage. Drift along gentle currents and scenic winding bends as golden pine needles drift past, framing breathtaking views of frost-kissed mountain peaks under cool, autumn skies.

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Hiking through autumn foliage is one of the most magical ways to experience fall in Klamath. Breathe in the crisp mountain air, wander beneath a canopy of golden leaves, and keep an eye out for wildlife moving through the forest floor. Fall is also a wonderful time for birdwatching as migratory birds make their way through the Klamath Basin. There’s something truly peaceful about slowing down, exploring the trails, and taking in the beauty of the season.

These are just a couple of the many trails & trail systems that Klamath County offers!

Moore Mountain Trail System: This trail system offers miles of multi-use trails varying in terrain and difficulty. These trails feature stunning views of Upper Klamath Lake and the Cascade Peaks.

Spence Mountain Trail System: This trail system offers many different styles of trails—some along Klamath Lake, such as Queen of the Lake, and others deeper in the woods showcasing vibrant fall foliage. Like the Moore Mountain Trail System, Spence Mountain trails are multi-use and cover varying terrain and difficulty.

‍Make sure you watch out for bikers on the trails as these trails are meant for bikers & hikers. ‍

Mountain Lakes Loop: In the autumn, this loop offers stunning lake views highlighted by the golden hues of fall foliage, along with excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Hogback Trail: This challenging 3.4-mile hike features a steep elevation gain of 1,768 feet. It is a tough climb, but it rewards you with incredible views of Klamath.

Link River Trail: An easy out-and-back path along the Link River, this trail offers a peaceful walk with abundant opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy beautiful fall foliage.

Pro tip for the trail: check the forecast, double-check trail conditions, and be sure to dress in layers to prepare for autumns unpredictable weather!