Golden larches, fiery maples, and crisp air—here’s where to soak up fall’s magic with your crew.

From stroller-friendly strolls to family-friendly adventures and higher-elevation hikes for serious color-chasers, fall in the Wenatchee Valley is a leaf-peeper’s dream. Here's your go-to guide.

Top Local Hikes for Fall Colors

1. Saddle Rock Trail

Where: Wenatchee
Why Go: Iconic Wenatchee hike with sweeping valley views and golden grasses. Cottonwoods and shrubs add pops of fall color.
Family Friendly? Yes, with older kids or backpack carriers.

2. Sage Hills Trails

Where: Wenatchee
Why Go: Rolling hills, open vistas, and changing foliage in the shrubs and trees along the lower trail.
Family Friendly? Yes, just watch for mountain bikers.
Leaf Peeping Tip: Go early October for the best mix of golds and reds.

3. Jacobson Preserve

Where: Wenatchee
Why Go: Less crowded alternative to Saddle Rock. Short loops with views and native plants turning color.
Family Friendly? Yes, easy and close to town.

4. Lake Clara

Where: Wenatchee, Mission Ridge
Why Go: Gradual elevation increase with a lake view reward at the end!
Family Friendly? Yes! Big kid- and baby carrier-friendly

Leavenworth & Lake Wenatchee Area Hikes

(aka “Gold Rush” territory in October)

4. Waterfront Park Trails

Where: Leavenworth
Why Go: Stroll along the Wenatchee River with blazing red vine maples and golden aspens.
Family Friendly? Absolutely—flat paths and lots to see.
Bonus: Grab a pumpkin spice latte in town after!

5. Icicle Gorge Trail

Where: Icicle Creek Canyon
Why Go: A stunning 4-mile loop with a gentle grade, perfect for families and full of color along the creek.
Family Friendly? Yes.
Leaf Peeping Tip: Mid-October is peak time here.

6. Lake Wenatchee North Summer Route

Where: Lake Wenatchee State Park
Why Go: Vibrant colors around the lake and mountain views reflected in the water.
Family Friendly? Yes, especially good for little legs.
Pro Tip: Bring $10 for the day-use Discover Pass.

Larch Season Favorites (Late October)

7. Cutthroat Pass (via Rainy Pass)

Where: North Cascades (about 2 hours from Wenatchee)
Why Go: Famous golden larches line this alpine trail.
Family Friendly? Best for older kids or adventurous parents.
Larch Alert: Mid to late October is prime time.

8. Blue Lake Trail

Where: Off Highway 20, near Washington Pass
Why Go: Shorter hike with epic larch views.
Family Friendly? Yes—about 5 miles round trip.
Pro Tip: Bring layers—it gets chilly at elevation.

Bonus Leaf-Peeping Spots (No Hiking Required)

• Ohme Gardens – Elevated gardens with panoramic views over the valley—gorgeous in fall.

• Cashmere Riverside Park – Easy walking paths and vibrant trees.

• Leavenworth Fish Hatchery Nature Trails – Flat, stroller-friendly loop with leaf color and river views.

• Apple Capitol Loop Trail – You don’t have to go far to get a dose of fall color!

When to Go

• Late September–Early October: Start of color change in Wenatchee.

• Mid-October: Peak color in Leavenworth and Lake Wenatchee.

• Late October: Head higher for golden larches.

Make It a Day Trip

Pack warm drinks, bring binoculars for spotting wildlife, and don’t forget a cozy blanket for post-hike picnics. The colors won’t last forever—go get your fall fix!