I don’t know about you, but back to school changes my mood immediately from lazy days spent at the lake to cozying up with my favorite book, sweater, and a fire at the cabin. And, there’s no better place to experience this season and see the fall colors than Door County. Simply take a drive through the peninsula and you’ll find amazing views at every turn, however, there are some spots you just can’t miss to add to your GPS. Today, we’re outlining the top (and some unknown) places to see fall colors in Door County. Add these stops to your fall foliage color drive in Door County and you’ll be set.

The best places to see fall colors in Door County

Skyline Road in Peninsula State Park

You’ll see Peninsula State Park on everyone’s must-see Door County lists, however the specific spot to see the best fall colors is on Skyline Roadon Sven’s Bluff which will also offer views of the shoreline and islands.

Hwy 42 into Ephraim

Door County is known for all of it’s quaint towns, but the one that shows off the most is Ephraim. Take a ride up Hwy 42 and as you turn the corner into Ephraim get ready for one of my favorite views. The town sits elevated above the water and when the trees start turning, it is truly a scene from a movie.

Old Baldy in Whitefish Dunes State Park

To find this somewhat secret spot, head to the main park entrance and take the red trail. It’s a 2.8 mile round trip hike that will take you right past the Old Baldy lookout. You’ll be able to see our fav, Clark Lake to the Northwest and Lake Michigan to the East and the most stunning collection of fall colors on the treetops around you.

 

Cave Point

Another staple on most must-see lists in Door County, Cave Point makes our top fall list because it’s remarkable to see in the fall. We love the moody scene with waves crashing and, it’s just around the corner from your Old Baldy hike for stop number 1

Cana Island Lighthouse

It wouldn’t be a Door County “best of” list without a lighthouse! Cana Island is just outside of Bailey’s Harbor and once you climb the 89 foot tall lighthouse, you’ll be rewarded with 360 degree magnificant views.

Jens Jensens Windy Road

Of course this windy road is on the list because it’s a site to see no matter the season but really shows off in the fall and has fewer crowds so you can get that Instagram photo to document your visit.

The very tip of the peninsula

If you’ve earmarked our previous recommendations, this one will be at the very end of the road when you get to the tip of the thumb of Door County and can’t drive anymore. Once you take Jens Jensens road all the way to the ferry, you’ll look out on Deaths Door and see four islands. It’s truly the end of the road and worth the drive. Stay at Porte Haven which sits on a bluff on Deaths Door and be treated to this view day and night (a designated night sky park is right down the road so the stars are incredible here).

Want to stay in this cabin? We’d love to host you! Check out Porte Haven and book your fall Door County trip today.

 

As you plan your fall trip to Door County, maybe you’re also wondering…

Is fall a good time to visit Door County?

100% without a doubt yes. It is arguably the most beautiful season in Door County and considering there are fewer tourists on the peninsula during these months, it is a great option to check out all the hot spots as well.

What is the best time to see fall colors in Door County?

The best time to see fall colors in Door County is late September to early October and you can check out Travel Wisconsins fall color report for more detailed information for 2023.

Fun things to do in Door County in the fall

From corn mazes to pumpkin patches, apple picking to wineries – there is no shortage of things to do in Door County in the fall. And, if you’re looking for a detailed itinerary, we’ve got you covered right here.

That’s a wrap, the 7 must-see places to see fall colors in Door County. Tell us, which one are you adding to the list?