What’s the first thing most people think of when they envision the Pacific Northwest? The glorious beauty of Mother Nature is probably pretty high on the list. And what’s one of the best parts of living in a state that is literally known for having all the trees? Why, the changing of seasons as summer to turns to fall, of course.
The colors. are. gorgeous. This means it’s the perfect time to plan for family pictures. But with so many options, what are some of the best locations for fall family photos around Portland? Naturally, we went to the professionals and asked some of our favorite local photographers about their favorite fall spots.
Each image is directly linked to the local photographer that took it, and we’ve also included a handy little map of all the fall locations mentioned at the bottom of this post.
Leach Botanical Garden (outer SE Portland)
Leach Botanical Garden is a lovely spot for pictures just about any time of the year. And even when it rains, which can be…a lot.
Vancouver Lake Regional Park (NW Vancouver)
Holy trees, ya’ll. The backdrop of trees at Vancouver Lake is absolutely BURSTING with color during the Fall. Don’t forget; the park also has its own waterfront as well.
Mt Tabor Park (SE Portland)
Want to feel like you are in the middle of the woods without leaving the east side of the city? Mt Tabor Park fits the bill and is giving all the fall vibes.
Rooster Rock State Park (Corbett)
Of course, we can’t forget the Columbia River Gorge. While there are many stops along the way, Rooster Rock State Park has a lot to offer with a beautiful array of trees, cliffs, tall grasses, and rocky terrain (just to name a few).
Hoyt Arboretum (SW Portland)
A favorite of many Beaverton families, Hoyt Arboretum has 189 acres of foliage with 12 miles of well-maintained hiking trails. This makes for the perfect tree-lined images. Naturally, leaf-throwing may ensue.
Powell Butte Nature Park (outer SE Portland)
Powell Butte Nature Park is extra popular with both Portland families and local photographers alike. There is almost unreal natural beauty all over the place: trees, water, grass paths, rocks – there’s something for everyone!
Another vote for Powell Butte Nature Park, especially when you catch the light just right.
Honestly, we haven’t seen an image we don’t love from Powell Butte Nature Park.
Lewisville Regional Park (NE Battleground, WA)
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Lewisville Regional Park sits just north of Battle Ground, WA. It also has riverfront views as the East Fork Lewis River runs directly through the park. Once again, the tree make for a beauty fall background.
Summer Lake Park (Tigard)
Call me biased (because I’m in SW Beaverton), but Summer Lake Park is a personal favorite of mine. Spring and Summer boast amazing blooms throughout and then autumn turns it into an incredible backdrop of burnt oranges, auburns, and browns. While the Lake is a bit small, it still has two bridges that make for easy to feed the ducks and geese (maybe something to do after your photoshoot).
Plumper Pumpkin Patch (outer NW Portland)
You didn’t think we would put together a list of Portland fall family photo locations and not include a pumpkin patch, did you? Of course not. Pumpkin Patches are a Portland area phenomenon when fall hits the air. And for good reason, too. I mean, look at this kid!
Happy Valley Park (Happy Valley)
Happy Valley Park is charming. It hosts 24 acres of wetlands with a looping, 3-mile path through the wooded areas. Paths are wide, wheelchair accessible, and flat. In addition to the wetlands, its numerous picnic spots also make for beautiful backdrops.
Jenkins Estate (Beaverton)
Owned by THRPD, the Belle Ainsworth Jenkins Estate is also on the National Register of Historic Places. The estate covers 68 acres, with eight buildings and 28 acres of gardens. It’s a pretty place to be during just about any season of the year with rolling hills, trails, historic architecture, flowers, trees, and more!
Google Map of All 11 of Our Favorite Locations for Fall Family Photos Around Portland
We’d like to extend a special thank you to all the photographers that shared their favorite locations for fall family photographs around Portland. Make sure to check out our Guide to Portland Photographers to find the picture-perfect fit for your family.
We know there are tons of beautiful locations around Portland. Where’s your favorite spot? Let us know in the comments.
