When the calendar strikes late September and early October, it’s time to head for the hills – well, mountains really. That’s where you’ll find golden larches in Washington state, creating a unique photo opportunity and adventure outside of Seattle.

Golden larches Seattle photo op

Larches, unlike other coniferous trees, shed their needles every fall. Much like deciduous trees, the needles of the larch change color to a bright yellow every autumn – hence the name, golden larches. The needles typically turn gold in late September and early October. Click here for information on the best time to see golden larches.

Although the headline of this post is “Seattle photo op,” you actually need to head out of the Emerald City to find golden larches. The most popular spots include the North Cascades, Central Washington, Mount Baker and other fun locations. Just make sure you’re high enough; the two species of golden larches grow at elevations between 2,000 feet and 7,500 feet. If you’d like more specific suggestions, click here.

Golden larches Seattle photo op

While most golden larch photo ops happen on a hiking trail, you can simply drive to the picturesque trees as well. All of the photos in this blog post were captured on a drive along forest roads near Blewett Pass (map), specifically Forest Road 9716 and Forest Road 9712. If you plan on heading this direction, be sure to check the latest road conditions.

No matter how you choose to experience the golden larches, just get out there and see them. It’s a small window every year, and they are trees that only grow in a few locations around the world. This is one of THE best photo opportunities near Seattle every single year.

Golden larches Seattle photo op

Have you ever checked out the golden larches? What did you think of the photo opportunity? We’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below or connect with us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Vimeo. You can also visit Moarly Creative for more awesome Seattle photo ops and learn more about our video production and content creation company.

And if you’d like to learn about other photo opportunities in the area, be sure to see our posts about Skagit Valley tulips and daffodils, Sahale Glacier, cherry blossoms at the University of Washington, and whale watching in Seattle.