The Best Fall Weekend Trips On The West Coast

Whether it's an issue of not having enough money, time or you simply have too much on your plate, it's not always possible to make major trips a reality, but that doesn't mean you can't travel on the weekends.
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Big, week-long trips have an obvious appeal, but they're not always feasible. Whether it's an issue of not having enough money, time or you simply have too much on your plate, it's not always possible to make major trips a reality, but that doesn't mean you can't travel on the weekends.

One of the best suggestions for satiating your appetite for travel is taking weekend trips (or long weekend trips) to nearby places. These little escapes allow you to enjoy time away without being all that far from home, maximizing relaxation while minimizing travel time--and fall is one of the best seasons to travel. The weather in most of the country is temperate, summer crowds are gone and you can enjoy the fall colors in many destinations.

When you're ready to pack up the car and enjoy a weekend away, check out one of these 10 incredible fall destinations. From California to Canada, these are the top weekend trips on the West Coast.

Tillamook County, Ore.
Perched on the breathtaking Oregon coast, this area is the perfect low key setting for outdoor adventurers this fall. Explore the Tillamook State Forest, watch whales breaching at Cape Lookout and climb dunes at Cape Kiwanda—there’s no shortage of things to do. Don’t miss your chance to paddle the coast and be sure to go crabbing, it’s a local treat. With close proximity to Portland and Seattle, this coastal getaway isn’t far off.Photo Credit: ShutterstockClick Here to See Best Fall Weekend Trips on the West Coast
Vancouver, B.C., Canada
The big city of Vancouver is busy in the summer and a great gateway to ski resorts in the winter, but the time in between is often overlooked. The fall is arguably the best time to visit, as there’s still a lot going on, but the prices and crowds aren’t at their peak. Visit the Vancouver Art Gallery, stroll the night market in Chinatown and explore the outdoors in Stanley Park. The city isn’t too far from Seattle or Portland, making it a perfect trip for a long weekend. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Bend, Ore.
This once-obscure adventure travel mecca is a must-visit mountain town for anyone who loves the great outdoors. A great weekend escape for fall, Bend is set in the middle of Oregon, making it accessible for travelers around the state. Hiking, biking, fishing, rafting, rock climbing—you name it, you’ll likely find it in Bend. Head up into the Cascades for some incredible mountain biking (almost 300 miles of singletrack) or dip your paddle into the Deschutes River for a refreshing ride. After your adventures, enjoy the thriving food and drink scene in town or check out one of the many local art galleries.Photo Credit: ShutterstockClick Here to See Best Fall Weekend Trips on the West Coast
Napa Valley, Calif.
Best known for its world-famous wine and stunning scenery, Napa Valley is a place you need to visit at least once and fall is a great time to go. After your initial trip dining in Michelin-starred restaurants, biking picturesque paths and tasting some of the best wine in the world, your subsequent return to Napa will be practically guaranteed. Napa Valley’s proximity to San Francisco and Sacramento make it an easy choice for a weekend getaway.Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Portland, Ore.
Celebrated for “coolness” and non-conformity, this city may be the biggest in all of Oregon, but it’s laid back vibe, walkability and access to the great outdoors make it feel more like a big town. As people hear about Portland, it’s been attracting more visitors and there’s no time to visit like the fall. Wander the beautiful neighborhoods full of falling leaves, explore local trails and satisfy your sweet tooth at their famous doughnut shop—Voodoo Doughnut.Click Here to See Best Fall Weekend Trips on the West CoastPhoto Credit: Shutterstock


- Diana Gerstacker, The Active Times

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