How to see the best fall colors in the Eastern Sierras (2024)

Fall is a really special time in the Eastern Sierra, and I was recently lucky enough to have the chance to head up there for a weekend with some friends. The first week of October is typically the best time to see fall colors in the area, and this year did not disappoint. If you're planning a trip, this article will help you decide where to go to see the best fall colors in the Eastern Sierras in 2024.

Where to see fall colors in the Eastern Sierras

Bishop Creek Canyon

North Lake

You may recognize this background from Apple's High Sierra Wallpaper. When we stopped by North Lake, many of the people in my group immediately recognized it, and it's even better in person! We stopped at North Lake for a short hike around the lake, ending with this spectacular view. The parking lot and trail were quite busy around 10:30 a.m. on a Saturday, since the lake trail offers an easy way to see really vibrant fall colors. In all, the short hike took about an hour, with plenty of photo breaks.

South Lake

Our next stop was South Lake, just a short drive down the mountain. The small parking lots were also completely full, so we ended up having to park about a mile away, and walk uphill to the trail. It was definitely a good warm-up and got a sweat going! Around 1 p.m., buses full of tourists starting showing up, so expect crowds. However, most groups stayed near the trail head, so once we got about a mile into the trail, we had it mostly to ourselves. We didn't finish the trail because we wanted to have time for a hot springs visit, but it was a nice challenge. This trail is mostly uphill, with less opportunities to spot fall colors, but it does help you get in a good sweat!

This lake is also great for boating and paddling boarding since there is a boat launch here.

Mist Falls

This next spot is not so much a trail as it is a scenic spot along the road. We pulled over by this crazy explosion of color on our way to South Lake and snapped a few pics. With the waterfall in the background, this was one of my favorite places to see the fall colors. It's a little dangerous to stop by the road, but with so many other people doing it, we took the risk for some stunning photos.

Wild Willy's Hot Springs

After all the hiking and driving around to see the colors, you should stop by Wild Willy's Hot Springs for a nice, relaxing soak. We went once during sunset on a Saturday, and found the springs quite busy. However, we liked the springs so much that we decided to go back the following morning and had it very nearly all to ourselves. There are several pools of varying temperatures, with the hottest one by itself on the far left. As you sit in the warm water, you can gaze at the mountains in the distance and get some Vitamin D.

I hope this guide helps you experience some of the breathtaking spots to see fall colors in the Eastern Sierras! It's well worth a trip in my opinion, even if it's just for a weekend road trip.