How to View Fall Foliage in California
Expect a good autumn foliage season when temperatures have been milder and rainfall more abundant., Notice the fall foliage on trees other than oaks and maples., Allow time for autumn in California to really take off., Check out the urban forests...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Expect a good autumn foliage season when temperatures have been milder and rainfall more abundant.
Fall foliage is determined by a number of factors, including shorter days, colder nights and the amount of moisture in the ground.
Mild winds can also be a factor in fall color in California. -
Step 2: Notice the fall foliage on trees other than oaks and maples.
California has many trees that show off their fall colors.
Flowering pea trees.
Tupelos.
Bald Cypress.
Ginkgos. , California's autumn may start later than in other parts of the country.
Fall foliage usually starts in the Sierras in late September.
Coastal areas may not see autumn foliage until early December.
In many locations, peak fall color occurs around Thanksgiving. , The Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden can present quite a show. , Some recommended areas are:
Inyo National Forest.
Lake Tahoe Basin Management Area.
Lassen National Forest.
Shasta Trinity National Forest.
Ukiah's redwoods. , Early morning foliage viewing can offer vivid colors that contrast with the morning dew.
The deep shadows of the late afternoon provide a different type of contrast with autumn leaves. ,, Autumn also brings different smells and sensations experienced best outdoors.
Often the best views aren't from a car window. , Check websites and Twitter for the latest on California foliage.
The U.S.
Forest Service maintains a website of fall foliage hotspots in national forests. , Shoot photos early or late in the day.
If your digital camera has an "auto white" balance, go with the daylight setting for exaggerated color.
Polarizing filters can enhance color.
Use slower film in film cameras for better enlargements.
Slide film is best for fall color.
Compose photos by focusing in on a single tree or part of a tree and contrasting it with other objects. -
Step 3: Allow time for autumn in California to really take off.
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Step 4: Check out the urban forests for a glimpse of California foliage.
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Step 5: Visit state and national parks and forests for a look at California foliage.
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Step 6: View fall foliage in the early morning or late afternoon light.
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Step 7: Stop by the Sierra Nevada foothills
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Step 8: known as California's Gold Country for many reasons.
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Step 9: Get out of the car to fully enjoy the fall foliage experience.
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Step 10: Look for impressive California foliage around the vineyards of Napa Valley.
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Step 11: Take fall color photos like a professional photographer.
Detailed Guide
Fall foliage is determined by a number of factors, including shorter days, colder nights and the amount of moisture in the ground.
Mild winds can also be a factor in fall color in California.
California has many trees that show off their fall colors.
Flowering pea trees.
Tupelos.
Bald Cypress.
Ginkgos. , California's autumn may start later than in other parts of the country.
Fall foliage usually starts in the Sierras in late September.
Coastal areas may not see autumn foliage until early December.
In many locations, peak fall color occurs around Thanksgiving. , The Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden can present quite a show. , Some recommended areas are:
Inyo National Forest.
Lake Tahoe Basin Management Area.
Lassen National Forest.
Shasta Trinity National Forest.
Ukiah's redwoods. , Early morning foliage viewing can offer vivid colors that contrast with the morning dew.
The deep shadows of the late afternoon provide a different type of contrast with autumn leaves. ,, Autumn also brings different smells and sensations experienced best outdoors.
Often the best views aren't from a car window. , Check websites and Twitter for the latest on California foliage.
The U.S.
Forest Service maintains a website of fall foliage hotspots in national forests. , Shoot photos early or late in the day.
If your digital camera has an "auto white" balance, go with the daylight setting for exaggerated color.
Polarizing filters can enhance color.
Use slower film in film cameras for better enlargements.
Slide film is best for fall color.
Compose photos by focusing in on a single tree or part of a tree and contrasting it with other objects.
About the Author
Susan Robinson
Susan Robinson is an experienced writer with over 9 years of expertise in lifestyle and practical guides. Passionate about sharing practical knowledge, Susan creates easy-to-follow guides that help readers achieve their goals.
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