When you think of fall foliage, Nevada might not be the first place that comes to mind. But beyond the sagebrush and desert landscapes, Nevada’s mountains and high-elevation forests put on an incredible show each autumn. Quaking aspens turn brilliant shades of gold, cottonwoods glow yellow along mountain streams, and in some areas, reds and oranges add even more color to the landscape.
Fall is one of our favorite times to get outside at Nevada Outdoor School. The cooler temperatures make hiking more enjoyable, wildlife is easier to spot, and the changing leaves offer a great reason to slow down and explore somewhere new.
Here are a few of our favorite places to experience fall colors around Nevada.
Lamoille Canyon & the Ruby Mountains
Just outside Elko, the Ruby Mountains are one of the best places in Nevada to experience fall. Known for their towering peaks, alpine lakes, mountain streams, and tree-lined canyons, the Rubies offer a beautiful backdrop for autumn adventures.
The Lamoille Canyon Scenic Byway is an especially beautiful way to experience the season. The road winds into the mountains, offering plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the scenery. Harrison Pass, on the southern end of the Ruby Mountains, is another great option for taking in Nevada's fall colors.
If you want to stretch your legs, there are numerous trails throughout the area, including access to portions of the Ruby Crest National Recreation Trail.
Best time to visit: Generally September through early October, depending on elevation and weather.
Water Canyon Recreation Area
You don't have to travel far from Winnemucca to find fall color.
Located just outside the city, Water Canyon Recreation Area offers opportunities for hiking, biking, camping, and wildlife viewing. In autumn, the trees throughout the canyon provide a welcome burst of color against the surrounding high desert landscape.
Water Canyon is also a great option for families looking for a shorter outdoor adventure. Pack a picnic, take a hike, and spend some time simply noticing how the landscape changes as summer gives way to fall.
Best time to visit: Early to mid-fall, with the exact timing varying from year to year.
Copper Basin & Jarbidge
For a truly spectacular fall adventure, head north toward Jarbidge.
The Copper Basin area is known for expansive stands of quaking aspen that can transform the landscape into a sea of autumn color. Surrounded by rugged mountains and remote Nevada landscapes, this area makes for an unforgettable fall road trip.
The road to Jarbidge is remote and includes unpaved sections, so be prepared for a longer adventure and check road conditions before heading out.
Best time to visit: Typically early to mid-October, depending on elevation and weather.
Great Basin National Park
Great Basin National Park may be best known for its ancient bristlecone pines, alpine lakes, towering Wheeler Peak, and spectacular night skies—but fall adds another reason to visit.
The park's high elevations create ideal conditions for beautiful autumn foliage. Aspen groves bring vibrant yellow and gold to the mountains, creating a striking contrast with the surrounding landscape.
Take a scenic drive, explore a trail, visit an alpine lake, or simply find a place to sit and take in the changing landscape.
Best time to visit: September through early October.
Success Loop Near Ely
If you're looking for a fall road trip, put the Success Loop near Ely on your list.
The approximately 58-mile loop travels through the Schell Creek Range and is known for its mountain scenery, wildlife, and spectacular aspen groves. The trees near the summit can put on an especially impressive display in the fall.
The route includes paved and dirt sections, so make sure you check current road conditions before heading out. Plan plenty of time for stops—you'll probably want to pull over more than once to enjoy the views.
Best time to visit: Late September through October.
Fall Colors in Southern Nevada
Even Southern Nevada has its own fall foliage destinations.
Higher elevations in the Spring Mountains provide an opportunity to experience changing aspens and cooler mountain temperatures just a short drive from the Las Vegas area. Lee Canyon and Kyle Canyon are popular areas for experiencing the transition from summer to fall.
And if you're looking for a different kind of autumn scenery, Rainbow Canyon near Caliente offers cottonwoods and aspens that turn orange and yellow in the fall, set against colorful canyon walls.
Best time to visit: Timing varies by elevation and weather conditions.
Make Fall a Time to Explore
One of the best things about fall in Nevada is that you don't have to travel across the country to experience beautiful autumn scenery. From the Ruby Mountains to Great Basin National Park and from Jarbidge to Water Canyon, there are colorful landscapes waiting to be explored throughout the state.
This fall, choose a new trail, take a scenic drive, or visit a familiar place with fresh eyes. Pay attention to the changing leaves, listen for wildlife, notice the cooler air, and take some time to appreciate the seasonal changes happening around you.
And remember: the best way to enjoy fall colors is to leave them where you found them. Stay on designated trails, respect wildlife, pack out what you bring in, and leave plants, leaves, and other natural objects for the next visitor to enjoy.
So grab your hiking shoes, a water bottle, and maybe a camera, and get outside to experience Nevada in a whole new color.
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