Autumn. It’s the season of apple picking, pumpkin carving and strolling through freshly fallen leaves. Is it any wonder that we’re escaping to the mountains for even more fall flavor?
California’s mountains may not receive as much publicity as its iconic beaches, but their natural beauty is undeniable and autumn and is the perfect time to visit.
Here are our top 7 reasons to consider a California mountain getaway in the coming months.
1. You won’t wilt while hiking and biking.
You may think of summer as the prime time for exploring California’s trails, but cooler temperatures make fall an even better time to hike and bike.
Where to Go:
The Mammoth Lakes Trail System includes hikes for every ability level, and Outside named Mammoth Mountain’s bike park the best in the country.
You may not have heard of Arnold, but this small town in Calaveras County is just a few miles from endless hiking trails and Big Trees State Park.
2. You can score accommodations at low season rates.
Summer is peak tourism season in California, and winter draws thousands of skiers to the slopes. Fall, however, is a relatively quiet time here in the Golden State. Many resorts lower their rates, making it the ideal time to visit if you’re looking for a deal on your accommodations.
Where to Go:
Ski season typically begins in late November, so make sure to book your trip to Mammoth, June Lake or Lake Tahoe before the skiers and snowboarders arrive.
3. The trout are biting.
As the weather cools, the trout start their pre-winter feeding frenzy. The famed Alpers trout are no longer being stocked in the Sierras as of 2014, but the fishing here is still the best in the West.
Where to Go:
June Lake and the Mammoth Lakes Basin offer anglers ample opportunity to catch fish. For a truly scenic setting, visit the Upper Owens River about an hour outside of Mammoth.
4. Local festivals and events keep things fun and fresh.
Mingle with the locals at a festival or other annual event. Even the ones that focus on beer are family-friendly, offering face painting and other activities for children.
Where to Go:
Bring your appetite and enjoy great food, fine wines, and high spirits at the 7th annual South Lake Tahoe Food and Wine Festival.
5. Few sights are as beautiful as trees blazing with color.
As nighttime temperatures drop below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, the mountains light up with color. Foliage is at its peak in mid-October. Visit California Fall Color for updates.
Where to Go:
June Lake is particularly stunning this time of year, when the water reflects the gold aspens bordering its shores.
Big Trees State Park near Arnold is known for its grove of giant sequoias, but among the stately trees you’ll also find dogwoods and big leaf maples putting on a show this time of year.
6. The fall grape harvest is underway.
The vines are laden with low-hanging fruit, literally. And the grape leaves are changing color too. Enjoy a scenic tour of a family-owned vineyard followed by a wine tasting session.
Where to Go:
Wine Tours from Tahoe guides travelers through El Dorado County, a wine region less than an hour from Lake Tahoe.
Calaveras County in the Sierra Foothills is home to Twisted Oak Winery and Ironstone Vineyards.
7. Hot cocoa tastes better when it’s chilly outside.
There’s nothing like warming yourself before a fire with a cup of hot cocoa in hand. In fact, some of our favorite memories were made doing absolutely nothing in a beautiful mountain location.
Where to Go:
Quiet and remote, Arnold is our top choice if you want a relaxing experience away from it all.
Prefer an espresso drink? Stop by South Lake Tahoe’s Blue Angel Café.
In just a few months, the fall foliage will be gone and ski season will be well underway. Plan your mountain getaway today and make the most your autumn.
Our friendly vacation specialists are here to help you find the perfect accommodations, wherever you’re traveling. Call us today at (877) 477-7368 to get started.
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