331 Things to Do in Port Angeles – #6 The Fall Leaf Peeping Season is Poppin’

The Top Spots to See the Fall Leaves and Fall Foliage Around the Olympic National Park and the Olympic Peninsula

Updated September 2022

We recommend booking a Fall foliage tour with one of our local tour guides in Port Angeles. From hiking tours to biking and kayaking tours, you’ll be able to leaf peep at some of the best locations — on land or water!

  1. Morse Creek Hill

    Hop out of the car and head to the Olympic Discovery Trail (ODT) along the Morse Creek area (off Highway 101) to see the fall leaves along this walkable and bike-able paved pathway that follows the shores of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Go further along the ODT towards Sequim and you’ll cruise by fragrant lavender farms. Rent an electric bike from Discover e-Bikes from downtown Port Angeles.

  2. Lake Crescent & Mt. Storm King – BONUS: Take a walk to Marymere Falls while you’re there

    Lake Crescent is a must visit anytime of year, but the fall season offers a dazzling display of autumnal colors contrasting with the cerulean blue water. The most spectacular hike for fall is Mt. Storm King where you’ll see the changing colors over 4,500-feet above Lake Crescent. While you are here, explore the entire lake by kayak or canoe. Rentals are available at the Lake Crescent Lodge. Stop in for a delicious lunch on the patio or warm drinks by the massive fireplace at this historic lodge. Don’t forget to fit in a short hike up to Marymere Falls and check off a visit to one of the falls along Washington’s waterfall trail.

    Woman is at the top of Mt Storm King looking down over Lake Crescent

    Lake Crescent Fall Foilage in Olympic National Park

  3. Anywhere along the Elwha River between Hwy 101 and the Olympic Park entrance

    We recommend a glimpse from the historic Elwha River Bridge that was rebuilt with an amazing pedestrian walkway and bike path that spans across the river. And let’s not forget about Hurricane Ridge. From any view point or trail, you’ll be able to see sea-to-trees-to-sky views from most places along the Ridge.

  4. Elwha River Valley - Fall Leaves Changing

  5. The Hoh River near the Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center

    Drive west to Forks along Hwy 101 and then head east out to the Hoh Rain Forest. When you arrive at the rain forest visitor center, stroll along the shores of the Hoh River for bright orange and yellow leafy views. This is a great place to spot wildlife like Bald Eagles and Elk too.

  6. Sections of HWY 112 from Port Angeles to Neah Bay

    Try a hike up Striped Peak at Salt Creek recreation area for a forested hike with coastal views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Take your leaf peeping to the water with a sea kayaking adventure at nearby Freshwater Bay. The scenic coastline will be ablaze with fall colors. If you prefer to leaf peep via bike, we recommend heading to the Olympic Adventure Trail — or as the local’s refer to it, the OAT — right off Hwy 112 before you cross the Elwha River.