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Where and when to view fall colors in Seattle

The Emerald City trades some of its greens for a fiery display of foliage in the autumn months — here’s what to expect for this year’s fall colors.

Trees in varying shades of yellows, greens, reds, and oranges are lush and vibrant in the Seattle Japanese Garden, which has a gravel trail winding throughout and several benches scattered along. A small pond reflects the trees' colors.

Leaf peepers will definitely want to add the Seattle Japanese Garden to their local bucket lists.

Get those leaf peepers ready, Seattle. According to the Farmer’s Almanac, we’re only a couple weeks out from seeing some fall color foliage.

Predictions suggest that we should start seeing changing leaves mid-September, with expected peak dates in early October.

Here are a couple of factors that could affect this year’s foliage:

Regardless, Seattle’s fall foliage is a fast and furious display of the area’s lush natural landscape — and we’re on the lookout. Seattle’s parks are excellent places for scouting, but here are some more fave spots for observing fall colors:

  • The Fremont Cut — meander this section of the Burke-Gilman Trail for colorful, tree-lined water views + distant sights of Queen Anne’s tree coverage.
  • The Ballard Locks — not only does this area see prominent salmon migration activity in the fall, but it also boasts a variety of trees perfect for a showcase of fall’s full range of colors.
  • Seattle Japanese Garden — The garden’s koi pond and winding pathways make it a serene and meditative spot to observe local wildlife in fall.

Make your tour of fall colors extra cozy with a local cup of joe or steamy chai.

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