Things to Do During Fall in Mendocino County

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As summer fades and the air turns crisp, Mendocino County transforms. Fall brings softer light, fewer crowds, and a palette of autumn color that makes the coast, forests, vineyards, and hills absolutely glow. Whether you're visiting or a local, here are some of the best ways to spend your fall days in this special part of Northern California.

1. Hike Amid Redwoods, Waterfalls & Coastlines

Fall is prime hiking season—cooler weather makes trail adventures more enjoyable, and many waterfalls run strong after summer heat. Try the Fern Canyon to Falls Trail in Mendocino Grove, or the Russian Gulch State Park loop with its waterfall and creekside landscapes. If you want something more secluded, the Hidden Hikes listed by Mendocino Land Trust—like the Shady Dell on the Lost Coast, the Lake Mendocino trails, or the City View Trail in Ukiah—offer quiet escapes.

2. Visit Botanical Gardens & Coastal Headlands

The Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens are especially beautiful in fall—colors shift, migratory birds return, and the ocean views feel sharper in the cool air. Similarly, walking the headlands—Mendocino Headlands State Park or coastal bluff trails—offers expansive views, crashing waves, and dramatic skies. Fall light makes everything more photogenic.

3. Fall Wine Tasting & Harvest Festivities

Harvest time yields ripe grapes, energized vineyards, and a festive mood. Events like Mendocino Fall Fest (November 14-15) at Mendocino Grove mix local crafts, food, and live music, creating a celebration of the season. Exploring the wineries—while the leaves are just starting to blush—makes for a relaxing, fun afternoon.

4. Explore Local Art, History, & Museums

Fall evenings are ideal for exploring indoors: art exhibits, historic homes, and small museums without the height-of-tourist crowds. The Kelley House Museum in Mendocino tells stories of logging, shipping, and early settlement. Galleries and small local exhibitions in Fort Bragg, Mendocino, Ukiah, and beyond often kick off new shows in fall.

5. Seasonal Events & Festivals

From plant sales and fall fairs to food, music, and outdoor community gatherings, fall brings many events you won’t want to miss. The annual Mendocino Fall Fest (for example) is a perfect blend of nature, art, music, local food, and cozy vibes. Checking the events calendar gives you a sense of what’s happening each weekend.

6. Enjoy the Coastal Quiet & Ocean Views

With summer crowds diminished, autumn is the best time to enjoy quiet mornings on the beach, watch whales from the headlands, or just sip coffee by the fog-bound shore. Trails like the MacKerricher State Park coast trail, Caspar Headlands, and others offer waves, tide pools, driftwood, and the sound of the ocean without the noise.

Fall in Mendocino County is about embracing change—of light, weather, scenery, and pace. It’s a time when nature shows off, when small moments feel grand, and when local flavor and warmth matter more than ever.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to a cozy evening of food and wine. Drop by Cucina Verona in Fort Bragg, where we’d love to share local wines, Italian specialties, and warm hospitality with you as the season turns. Click here to make a reservation.