Siskiyou transforms into a vibrant autumn wonderland each fall. With golden foliage, crisp mountain air, and a lineup of charming festivals and outdoor adventures, it’s the perfect place to spend a quintessential fall day. Whether you’re a leaf-peeper, foodie, or thrill-seeker, this itinerary will guide you through the ultimate fall experience in Siskiyou.
Your adventure starts early! So, grab a coffee to-go from Miner Perk or Golden Rush Espresso, both in Yreka. You are going to need some fuel for your busy day ahead! Then head to Montague for the 27th Annual Hot Air Balloon Fair, happening September 19–21, 2025. Watch dozens of balloons take flight at sunrise, enjoy some breakfast from the local Elks Lodge, and soak in the magic of the colorful balloons floating against the morning’s misty sky.
Or if you happen to visit on October 4th, make sure to check out Harvest and Bloom, a curated one-day event featuring three delightful farm experiences around the county. This may begin with a stop in Grenada at Pastures of Grace, a splendid addition to any fall itinerary. You can stroll through rows of blooming dahlias and cut your own bouquet. It’s a peaceful, colorful way enjoy the season with a stunning backdrop of Mount Shasta to the southeast. Check their Instagram page, for the additional U-Pick event dates.
Just down the road, head to Hunter Orchards Pumpkin Patch. Pick your perfect pumpkin straight from the vine, sip warm cider, and enjoy live music and festive farm vibes. They are open every day during the month of October and host other occasional events with food trucks, music, and more fall excitement.
Then, take a scenic drive through Scott Valley. The 24-mile loop from Yreka to Etna is a fall foliage dream, with golden oaks and fiery maples in view from the road. Stop at the historic Mormon Church in Etna for a photo op of the gorgeous trees, and don’t miss the roadside Pumpkin Wagon on Eastside Road for a local gourd or two. Make sure to stop off and see the Kidder Creek Fall Festival, also on Oct 4th. This festival features apple picking, fresh cider, pony rides and more in a stunning country setting. There’s even a Car Show and Fall Festival happening at Fort Jone’s Walker Field on this day. Learn all about Harvest and Bloom and other autumn events here!
Has all of this morning action got your tummy rumbling? Grab a hearty custom sandwich at Miner Street Meat Market in Yreka, a deli-style lunch spot known for their tri-tip sandwiches. Great for a quick, filling bite that is oh so delicious! Or continue south and check out sit down dining at Cornerstone Bakery in Dunsmuir. They serve up classic American breakfasts and lunches with local brews and homemade ginger lemonade mimosas. A cozy spot with homemade soups, fresh-baked bread, and their fall menu often features sweet potato hash, pumpkin pancakes, and apple crisp. YUM!
With a full belly, unwind with a walk or bike ride around Lake Siskiyou. The seven-mile loop offers stunning views of fall foliage reflected in the water, with snow-capped Mount Shasta towering in the background. Or, go explore the Dunsmuir Botanical Gardens, where fiery reds and oranges light up the trees along the Upper Sacramento River. It’s a peaceful, dog-friendly spot perfect for a picnic or quiet reflection. Always a favorite, one can’t visit South Siskiyou in the fall without a stop at McCloud Falls. These three picturesque waterfalls are surrounded by a tree canopy and make for stunning photos from any angle!
Wrap up your day with a stick-to-your-ribs dinner and drinks at McCloud’s white tablecloth Sage Restaurant, where you can delight in their fresh local and seasonal dishes, or Treehouse Restaurant in Mount Shasta, Known for hearty entrees like prime rib, grilled salmon, and butternut squash ravioli. Everyone also loves Etna’s Denny Bar Co. Distillery, offering locally crafted beverages and hearty wood-fired fare in a cozy, small-town setting.
If you’re lucky, your visit might coincide with the Siskiyou Beef ‘N’ Brew event in Yreka, where you can sample gourmet beef dishes paired with craft beers and enjoy live country music as you stroll downtown in the autumn evening. This annual event takes over Yreka’s Miner Street every September, this year’s festivities happen on the 27th.
Wherever your autumn adventure takes you in Siskiyou, you are sure to find gorgeous sights, festive farm experiences, and small towns bursting with autumn charm. Seasonal adventures in Siskiyou are perfect for families, couples, and solo explorers… what are you waiting for?
