Are you itching for the fall weather and looking forward to a cool, scenic trip in Northern California? It may be hot in Northern California this week, but the good news is that autumn is just around the corner. There’s plenty of places where the leaves fall from the trees and turn orange, but the city of Ukiah makes for a lovely autumn escape no matter where in Northern California you are coming from.

Located near the redwood forests of Mendocino county, Ukiah is a city of 16,000 people that is a great weekend getaway anytime of year.

Flickr/ Benjamin Peterson

It is the largest city and county seat of Mendocino County, but this agricultural region has a laid back, small town feel.

Flickr/ Wayne Hsieh

It is much less touristy and busy than other Mendocino -area travel destinations, offering plenty of peace and quiet.

Flickr/ Bob Dass

The town was once known for growing hops to make beer until the prohibition era put a kink in beer production. There’s plenty of Victorian architecture left over from that period.

Flickr/ John Blower

Today, a major attraction in the area is the Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve, which encompases 2,700 acres of redwood forest.

Flickr/ mlhradio

Mendocino Lake is another draw and a perfect place for a fall picnic.

Yelp/ Karen K.

The produce in this area is also legendary. It’s a bountiful region and harvest time is the best time of year to visit.

Flickr/ John Blower

From iconic sights such as the “World’s Largest Redwood Tree Service Station” to it’s natural charm to be discovered down any street, Ukiah is an undiscovered gem perfect for a fall trip.

Wikimedia/ Binksternet

Have you ever visited Ukiah in the fall? If so, what did you think and how did you spend your time?

Flickr/ Benjamin Peterson

Flickr/ Wayne Hsieh

Flickr/ Bob Dass

Flickr/ John Blower

Flickr/ mlhradio

Yelp/ Karen K.

Wikimedia/ Binksternet

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