California's mountains and forests are putting on their annual show, with vibrant shades of gold, orange, and crimson peaking across some of the state's most scenic destinations. From the Eastern Sierra's iconic aspen groves to the colorful landscapes of Lake Tahoe and Yosemite, travelers have a limited window to catch the season at its best.
This year's fall color display varies by elevation and location, so timing matters for leaf peepers planning a getaway. Visitors can find the latest peak viewing windows, along with updates on parking availability, road access, and crowd conditions, to help make the most of a fall road trip.
In this video guide, we'll map out the best California fall foliage destinations right now, highlight where colors
are nearing their peak, and share practical tips on when to go, where to park, and how to avoid the biggest crowds while enjoying the state's most spectacular autumn scenery.
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: When and where to see California's best autumn leaves this season













