There’s something special about fall in Seattle. The days are crisp but can still be beautifully sunny, pumpkin spice lattes make their annual return, and the city’s trees begin putting on a spectacular display of color. While New England often gets most of the attention for fall foliage, the Pacific Northwest is an underrated destination for leaf peeping.
Whether you’re visiting Seattle this fall or a local looking for the perfect time to hit the trails, knowing when and where the leaves will be at their best can help you make the most of the season.
Here’s everything you need to know about Seattle’s 2026 fall foliage.
When will the leaves start changing color in Seattle?
Around the Seattle region, the first signs of fall foliage have typically appear in early September, with green leaves shifting into shades of yellow, orange, red, and brown.
In 2026, fall color has already started appearing around Seattle in early September. As the month continues, more trees will change, and the existing colors will become increasingly vibrant throughout the Emerald City.
When will Seattle’s fall foliage peak in 2026?
After building throughout the second half of September, Seattle’s fall foliage is expected to reach its peak in early October.
According to Almanac.com, the Pacific Northwest is expected to see peak fall color during the first and second weeks of October this year. Peak foliage generally lasts about a week to 10 days before the colors begin to fade and leaves start falling.
By early November, the Seattle region will typically be past its peak fall foliage season.
Where can you see the best fall foliage in Seattle?
Seattle and its surrounding areas offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy colorful autumn scenery. For a bigger fall adventure, Gifford Pinchot and Olympic National Forests are two of Washington’s standout destinations for a stunning fall hike.
Keep in mind that elevation plays an important role in when foliage changes. Mountain larches tend to turn first, while maples at lower elevations reach their most vibrant colors later in the season.
You also don’t need to leave the city to enjoy Seattle’s fall colors. Some of the best spots for fall foliage in Seattle include:
- Washington Park Arboretum (free) and the adjacent Seattle Japanese Garden ($10)
- Kubota Garden
- Discovery Park
- University of Washington campus
- Green Lake
For even more ideas, check out our guide to the best places to see fall foliage in Seattle.
What affects Seattle’s fall foliage?
A variety of weather conditions can influence the timing and quality of fall foliage each year. In general, the best colors tend to develop when there are sunny days, cool nights, moderate rainfall, and minimal wind.
Major storms, on the other hand, can quickly strip trees of their colorful leaves, leaving them scattered and soggy on the ground instead of glowing on the branches. Hopefully, Seattle gets a mild autumn this year so the foliage can stick around.
It’s also important to remember that elevation has a particularly strong influence on fall color in the West. Two destinations that are relatively close to one another can reach peak color weeks apart. If you’re planning a fall foliage trip, checking local foliage reports before heading out can help you time your visit.
