Road Trip: A Weekend of Autumn Experiences

Pack whatever you need — your kids, your dogs, your bikes — and head north to the farms of Seattle NorthCountry to celebrate the harvest.

Let’s take a look at the fall fun we have on tap in our neck of the woods.

1. Sunflowers

Bursts of tall yellow flora make a perfect backdrop for selfies and Insta pics. Stocker Farms in Snohomish prides itself on its tall flower crop, and actively invites photographers to snap pictures.

Sunflowers are also in season at Thomas Family Farms of Snohomish. The best time to catch a ripe sunflower crop is from late September to early October.

2. Corn mazes

Bob’s Corn Maze is not just a corn maze. It also allows visitors to rent fire pits and roast marshmallows and hot dogs in the middle of corn mazes. Bob’s employees will even help haul in your roastable goods. All you have to do is trek in and dine fireside with your buds.

Pro tip: wear some durable rain boots. Things get muddy and that's part of the fun.

3. Leafy walks

Fall is the best time to walk. Get your chunky socks on and order your steaming beverage to go. Enjoy that crisp air.

Centennial Trail - Snohomish to Lake Stevens or Arlington

The Centennial is a long paved path going from Snohomish up to Arlington. There are deciduous trees that line the route so bicyclists and walkers can enjoy plenty of brilliant fall colors in season, not to mention that sweet smell of fallen maple leaves.

Lowell Riverfront Trail - Everett

Down by the Snohomish River in the Lowell District is a trail that leads walkers through a wooded area and wetlands. The route is paved and has several picnic areas. It’s a good idea to bring waterproof shoes or boots, as the walkways can sometimes get muddy or rainy in the fall. On a clear autumn day, you can see barns and the snowy Cascade Mountains to the north and to the east.

Whitehorse Trail - Arlington to Darrington

If you like long leaf strolls, consider the 9.4-mile Whitehorse Trail. It leads walkers/hikers on a wending scenic route through the North Stillaguamish Valley — a place that indigenous tribes dubbed “the walking valley” for its dynamic and changing foothill landscape.

Bring your camera: beautiful fall views will reveal themselves at every turn in the path.

Downtown Edmonds

If an urban stroll is more your thing, consider a day of downtown strolling in the seaside arts community of Edmonds, Washington. Enjoy the leafy downtown plaza fountain, dine al fresco (weather permitting) and go shopping.

4. Fall brews and spirits

Between Oktoberfest and pumpkin beer season, autumn is a ripe time for sipping craft brews.

The Snohomish beer passport

The best way to try everything that’s in season is to sample it all. That’s why there’s the Snohomish Ale Trail. It connects you to all of the best breweries in Snohomish. Check it out.

Spirits

Do yourself a favor and get to Skip Rock Distillers in Snohomish. They brew rye, whiskey, and all sorts of seasonal liquors (like spiced apple or local raspberry) that will warm you from the inside. After a sip or two your ready for a chilly autumn stroll.

5. Assorted Fall Fun

For the adventurous explorer of local pumpkin farms there is much to be discovered: hayrides, pumpkins, pumpkin cannons, petting zoos, and produce stands — as well as truly and quirky seasonal foods like apple cider donuts and buttery corn on the cob.

Are you a hiker? Be sure to check out our list of best autumn-friendly hikes.

Of the listing of autumn joys there is no end. Perhaps your best bet is to discard this list entirely, hop in the car, punch the Snohomish River Valley into your GPS and make your own spontaneous adventure itinerary.

Keep your eyes peeled, your taste buds on standby, and don’t forget to enjoy it all.