12 Unforgettable Fall Getaways From Bakersfield

Are you in the mood for a city escape? You do not have to go far; check out some of the following gorgeous getaways, each within a 3-hour drive from Bakersfield, California! Fall is a magical time in the Golden State. It's the season to embrace the vibrant colors, crisp air, and festive events. Join us as we explore 12 unforgettable fall getaways that will make this season truly memorable. There's something for everyone, from breathtaking fall foliage to wine tastings to family-friendly festivals and some seriously memorable pumpkin patches.

Kern River Valley

If you're looking for fall foliage and a scenic drive, you must pay Kern River Valley a visit. Just about an hour and a half northeast of Bakersfield, this breathtaking valley invites nature enthusiasts to ogle at the gold and crimson leaves that create a picturesque landscape along the banks of Kern River.

As you twist and turn along State Route 178, stop off to visit the redwoods on the Trail of 100 Giants and take a dip in Remington Hot Springs. If you find yourself in Kern River Valley in late October, be sure to check out the annual Kernville Fall Festival for live music, local arts and crafts, games, costume parades, and (of course) an incredible pumpkin patch.

If you find yourself in Kern River Valley during a “big-water year” (a year when California gets lots of rain), book a white water rafting experience with Momentum River Expeditions. They even offer a “Kern River Rafting Safari” for those who want to spend more than just a half-day or a day on the river.

Sequoia National Park

Just north of Kern River Valley lies Sequoia National Park. This California gem transforms into a fall wonderland during the months of October and November, and the numerous hiking trails throughout the park provide the perfect opportunity to appreciate the reds, oranges, and yellows popping up amongst the towering giant sequoias and redwoods that have been inhabiting the area for thousands of years.

Try a guided tour with Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks to learn about the area’s unique ecology and soak in the beauty of the changing foliage. Visitors can also enjoy bird watching, hiking, camping, and even backpacking throughout the season. We are particularly fond of Moro Rock Trail. It's a short (but strenuous) hike that will take you to the top of Moro Rock for panoramic views of the park below.

Thinking about camping? The crisp fall air is perfect for gathering around a fire and sharing time with loved ones. Just make sure you get a fire permit!

Tehachapi

Tehachapi, about 40 miles southeast of Bakersfield, is a little town at the base of the Tehachapi Mountains known for its excellent apple picking. Rent a cozy cabin (we suggest Airbnb) and take the kids to Pulford Appletree Orchard, where you can pick to your heart's content amidst the gorgeous fall colors set against snow-capped mountains.

You'll also want to check out the Apple Festival in mid-October. The town turns into a celebration of fall, with apples at the center. Enjoy bobbing for apples, pie eating contests, pie baking contests, live music, and plenty more family-friendly fun.

If trains are your sweet spot, the Tehachapi Loop is more than worth a visit. A stunning historical accomplishment in railroad engineering, the 3,800-foot loop allows trains to gain 77 feet in elevation. Visitors can marvel at the busiest single-track line in the US from the relatively recently constructed Tehachapi Loop Overlook.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park, renowned for its towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and ancient giant sequoias, is a short (and well worth it) 3-hour drive north of Bakersfield. And fall is the time to visit. Not only do the crowds die down as the weather turns chillier, but the landscape transforms into a breathtaking autumn spectacle with colorful oaks, poplars, and dogwoods popping through the evergreens, creating a gorgeous contrast against the slate gray of the granite and the cool blue of waterfalls, rivers, and lakes.

Hike through the mountains and meadows (we love the Mist Trail), bike along the valley floor, and watch for native wildlife such as black bears, mule deer, coyotes, and grey foxes. If you're lucky you may get to chat with one of the big wall climbers there. These daring athletes make Yosemite Valley their home for the season.

So far as lodging goes, Yosemite Valley offers a plethora of options. Whether you book a luxurious stay at the historic Ahwahnee Hotel, opt for a cabin or tent at Curry Village, or pitch your tent in one of the many campgrounds in the Valley, you won’t be disappointed.

Oakhurst

On your way home from Yosemite, swing through the little town of Oakhurst, just 30 minutes south of the Park. Their annual Fall Festival is pretty darn special. Load up on plenty of live music, seasonal foods, and local wines and beers, and don’t hesitate to bring the little ones. With character meet and greets, face painting, and games, the whole family can enjoy plenty of activities.

While you’re there, you can hop aboard the Oakhurst Trolley for a tour of the town and its gorgeous fall foliage. Consider an off-roading adventure with Yosemite Adventure Company.

Planning an overnight visit? Sierra Meadows' upscale "glamping" cabins just outside of Oakhurst are the place to be! The resort's 150 acres of gorgeous grounds are the perfect place to hike and bike through the autumnal landscape and catch some seriously stunning views from the porch of your cozy cabin.

Paso Robles

If you're a wine person looking for a fall getaway, Paso Robles is the place for you. As the landscape turns every shade of red, orange, and yellow, local wineries celebrate the grape harvest with exciting festivals and tastings. And it's less than a 2-hour drive northwest of Bakersfield!

Travelers here can attend a grape stomping party at a local vineyard (Timshel Vineyards and Cass Winery do a great job) and/or book a vineyard tour and tasting with one of the many local wineries. We also recommend you check out the Garagiste Festival, USA Today's pick for the #1 Wine Festival in America! You'll taste wines from small-lot winemakers, attend a tasting seminar, and enjoy live music with your fellow wine enthusiasts.

Paso Robles is home to some seriously stylish, romantic boutique hotels. We love Stables Inn for its communal firepits and central downtown location, but the Geneseo Inn overlooking the vineyards at CASS Winery might be more your style. Enjoy a luxurious stay in one of their many guestrooms, book an archery lesson (or a horse ride!), or sign up for one of their olive oil-making classes.

Morro Bay

Drive straight to the coast (about 2.5 hours) from Bakersfield, and you'll find yourself in the breathtaking coastal town of Morro Bay. Bundle up in the crisp autumn air and take in the sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean with the iconic Morro Rock in the foreground.

While Morro Bay isn’t necessarily known for its fall foliage, the vibrant orange of the monarch butterflies that migrate through the area starting in late October more than make up for it. Starting in late October, heaps of monarchs cluster in the branches of the local eucalyptus trees and take flight, filling the sky with orange. Take it all in from the Monarch Grove Natural Area Hike or the tee box at Morro Bay Golf Course.

Small as it is, Morro Bay is more than worth a multi-day trip. Whether you pamper yourself with a stay at Anderson Inn or book a campsite at Morro Bay State Park, you’re in for some of the best Pacific Ocean sunsets you’ve ever seen.

Cambria

Drive 30 minutes up the coast from Morro Bay, and you'll find yourself in Cambria. This charming coastal town boasts sweeping views of the deep blue Pacific Ocean and an annual scarecrow festival that you just can't miss.

The Cambria Scarecrow Festival takes place in mid-October and features 100+ life-sized scarecrow versions of everything from movie stars to cavemen to dinosaurs! Take the 5k or 10k stroll through the charming old village and the surrounding nature trails to visit with each and every one of them. When you're done, visit Jack Creek Farms' pumpkin patch, just outside town, to find the perfect carving pumpkin.

After you’ve had your fill of fall festivities, take a quick 15-minute drive up to Hearst Castle, one of the grandest, most unique historic homes in the country. Make sure to schedule a tour ahead of time.

Solvang

Southwest of Bakersfield, almost to the coast, lies the charming Danish-style village of Solvang. As autumn arrives, the picturesque streets are lined with vibrant foliage. Stroll through town, stopping at the various shops and eateries along the way and enjoy one (or many) of the town's fall-tastic activities.

Solvang hosts various fall events and festivals. Our favorites include the Viking Classic Car Show, Solvang Scarecrow Fest, and Taste of the Santa Ynez Valley, a celebration of all things food and wine in the area. Got the family in tow? Check out Solvang Farmer Pumpkin Patch (as well as their unforgettable corn maze) and go apple picking at The Yard Orchard & Co.

If you have extra time, rent a bicycle to wind through the charming country roads or drive out to Los Padres National Forest for a day hike. When you’re done adventuring, check into the Vinland Hotel, a sophisticated hotel that will have you feeling like you’ve flown across the Atlantic and landed in Copenhagen.

Death Valley National Park

Fall marks the beginning of camping season in Death Valley National Park. So pack your tent and get ready to explore the vast desert expanses and remarkable rock formations of this unique national park. It's the perfect time of year to do it because the temperatures are finally starting to cool, and the autumn colors make the landscape all that much more breathtaking.

We highly encourage you to sign up for a ranger-led program or two. The park offers plenty, ranging from guided hikes through the Valley's sub-sea level terrains to epic star gazing experiences.

If you’re looking to step outside of your comfort zone, consider sand sledding in the Mesquite Sand Dunes.

Check out the various accommodation options at Oasis at Death Valley. They offer everything from top-notch luxury to cozy cottages to well-equipped campgrounds. Bring your golf clubs and tee off at Furnace Creek Golf Course at the resort. It’s the lowest-elevation golf course in the world!

Lone Pine

Nestled between Sequoia National Park and Death Valley lies the little town of Lone Pine, CA, a gateway to the Eastern Sierra Nevada. It’s just a three-hour drive from Bakersfield and boasts striking views of the towering, snow-capped Mt. Whitney from the desert-like landscape below.

Fall is the perfect time to visit Lone Pine because the temperatures have cooled, and the Eastern Sierras start to glow with the yellows, oranges, and reds of fall foliage. Wind through the Alabama Hills to admire the unique rock formations, such as Mobius Arch, and make sure to bring your hiking shoes. Whether you choose to summit Mt. Whitney or take a shorter trail up to Lone Pine Lake, you are in for a treat.

Lone Pine is also home to the Lone Pine Film History Museum, which celebrates the town’s connection to Western film. While you’re in the museum mood, check out Manzanar National Historic Site, the remnants of one of America’s World War II internment camps for Japanese Americans.

As for lodging, consider booking a tent site at Whitney Portal Campground. You’re sure to meet some interesting fellow campers gearing up to climb Mt. Whitney!

Bass Lake

Just south of Yosemite National Park, you'll find Bass Lake, a stunning destination that comes alive with color during the fall season. Relax (or fish!) lakeside and take in the fall foliage reflected in the lake's tranquil waters. Need to stretch your legs? We highly suggest a hike to Angel Falls via Willow Creek Trail.

The community of Bass Lake loves to celebrate fall. They throw a fantastic Oktoberfest as well as a family-friendly annual Hallowe'en carnival. If you're around for Thanksgiving, consider checking out The Pines Resort's lakeside Thanksgiving feast as well!

Accommodations are plentiful if you plan to stay longer than a day trip. Book a room at The Pines Resort or check out one of the nearby campgrounds. In particular, Forks Campground offers fantastic hilltop views of Bass Lake.

These 12 unforgettable fall getaways provide the perfect backdrop for connecting with family, friends, and nature amid the changing foliage's golds and oranges. And they're all just a short drive from the hustle and bustle of Bakersfield! Whether you're hiking through the stunning trails of Sequoia National Park, enjoying a cozy apple-picking experience in Tehachapi, or marveling at the charming scarecrow festival in Cambria, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So load your car with loved ones and road snacks and set out on your next fall adventure!