Fall-Color Adventure in Door County

In Door County, fall is in the air. In the coming days, the leaves will begin their transformation from bright, crisp, and verdant greens to warm and soulful golds, ambers, rusts, and browns before falling from their branches in late October.

Sure, you can view fall color photos online or track the leaves’ progress from afar, but the best way to experience Door County’s legendary fall foliage is to see it in person while enjoying some of these favorite outdoor activities.

Orchards & Farms

‘Tis the season for apples, pears, pumpkins, gourds, and late-season berries! Orchards and farms are the perfect places to spend an autumn afternoon and get a harvest-time produce haul for yourself.

You can pick your own apples or other produce, shop for fall-inspired food and decor, and walk among the rows and rows of apple trees or dormant cherry trees. Make a day of it by driving the entirety of the famous Highway 42, stopping at any roadside markets or food stands you find.

Kayaking & Boating

The trees and leaves may get most of the attention from fall-color enthusiasts, but don’t sleep on the majestic, cold-weather beauty of our local waterways this season. The views of lakeside communities and tree-covered shorelines you’ll see from the water will be well worth the wind and chill.

If you own your own boat, take advantage of the final days of water sports season with a kayak session or a boating excursion. Or, hop a scenic boat tour and leave the navigating to someone else.

Biking

If two wheels are your preferred method of getting around, biking in fall can be an unforgettable experience. Imagine gliding down empty backroads and through quiet communities, following the road wherever it takes you, with the trees and foliage drenched in vibrant fall color everywhere you look.

And, don’t forget, trail biking is an option too. Head to state parks or the Ahnapee Trail to put foot to pedal among some of the best fall colors in the country.

Scenic Drives

If speed is more your need, pack up the car or motorcycles for a day trip and hit the pavement. 

In addition to the iconic Door County Scenic Byway, check out the region’s sideroads and backroads to take in the beauty of fall. The roads of Washington Island also make an excellent place for a scenic drive or ride.

Fall is when the Door region takes on an entirely different look and feel and is the perfect time for a little pre-winter retreat. Enjoy harvest-inspired cuisine, pleasantly quiet businesses and outdoor spaces, and those spectacular displays of fall color just about everywhere you look.