2 Oregon towns ranked among best in US for fall foliage in 2025

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — If you’re looking for an autumn getaway with prime viewing of the colorful scenery, Oregon just might be the place for you.

Vacation property rentals company HomeToGo released its 2025 rankings, gathering data on 75 different destinations throughout the US known for their fall foliage. Two towns in Oregon made the list.

The data was further analyzed across key factors of cost of nearby vacation homes, how well it flies under the radar, the “scenic punch” of their autumn landscapes, as well as the variety of plant species seen “putting on a show.”

Both Hood River and Ashland ranked in the top 20, with Hood River coming in at #16 and Ashland at #5.

Ashland scored particularly high marks for vacation home affordability, with the report also noting its “drivable access to forested hills make it a quiet stronghold for fall color in the Pacific Northwest.”

Hood River, meanwhile, was praised for having a high number of plant species with vibrant fall colors.

Ultimately, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia rose to the top, scoring high for affordability, hidden gem factor, as well as fall scenery.

HomeToGo’s top 10 best towns for leaf-peeping vacations:

1. Harpers Ferr, W. Va.
2. Ely, Minn.
3. Brevard, N.C.
4. Manchester, Vt.
5. Ashland, Ore.
6. New Paltz, N.Y.
7. Camden, Maine
8. Bayfield, Wis.
9. Roan Mountain, Tenn.
10. Gorham, N.H.

Most places in the Pacific Northwest will likely see a typical fall foliage display, according to a recent map from AccuWeather.

But KOIN 6 Chief Meteorologist Josh Cozart says the majority of trees in Oregon will start seeing the fall transition depending on elevation.

Once you start to see the color popping up, AccuWeather’s Paul Pastelok says to not delay. He expects peak leaf peeping season to be short this year.