The Best National Forest Activities for Families This Fall
Willamette National Forest, Oregon. Photo by Melissa Rosin
Want to take advantage of the magical window between summer’s peak recreation season and the short, frosty days of winter, when temperatures are cool (but not cold) and bugs are scarce? Here are five weekend fall adventures you can do in a National Forest with (or without!) kids.
Leaf Scavenger Hunt
Going on a scavenger hunt for fallen leaves is an easy and tactile family activity. Look for as many new shapes and colors as you can find, from the vibrant orange of sugar maple leaves to the burnt-gold needles of western larch. Whoever finds the most varieties wins!
Scenic Drives
Over 9,000 miles of scenic byways will guide you through some of the National Forest System’s most iconic stretches of roadway. A byway day trip is a great way to take in sweeping autumn vistas from plentiful overlooks and find easy access to picnic areas and trails that everyone can enjoy.
Get inspiration from these eight stunning fall drives through a National Forest
Wildlife Spotting
As temperatures begin to drop, wildlife change their behavior to reflect the shifting season. Birds migrate to warmer climates, bears feast to build their fat reserves for winter torpor, and elk compete for mates during the rut. Not only are many animals more active during the fall, but with fewer leaves on the trees, they are also easier to spot in branches or hear rustling on the forest floor.
Here are seven wildlife species you’re more likely to spot in National Forests this fall.
Nature Journaling
Fall is full of color and opportunities to observe different rhythms in plants and wildlife. Bring a sketchpad and colored pencils on your next outdoor adventure and capture what you see. How many different varieties of acorns and seeds can you find? What mushrooms do you encounter? Are there animal tracks? Recording what we find can help us slow down and notice the changes happening in nature around us.
Picnic
Enjoy the cooler temperatures and crisp air with a picnic under a canopy of gold and red. Bring standard picnic fare, or lean into the season with apple cider, camp stove chili, and pumpkin bread. Classic board games are another great addition, adding a touch of nostalgia while creating new family memories.
Try these eight picnic areas on National Forests that make for a meal to remember.
Whether you’re searching for colorful leaves, spotting wildlife, or sharing a picnic beneath autumn foliage, these moments are made possible by healthy forests. The National Forest Foundation works with partners across the country to help care for these special places so families can enjoy them for generations to come.
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