Fall Vibes in the 253

Best local fall activities

By Rachel Kelly

A Season of Changes It’s fall, which is code for “all the seasons.” Whether it’s the time of day where you’re feeling the winter chill, the fall winds, the spring rains or the summer heat, there’s an activity that fits what you’re feeling. So, gear up accordingly, and get outside!

Local Fall Colors• Best for Inner City Color: Wright Park, 501 South I St., Tacoma

• Beach and Foliage: Sunnyside Beach, 2509 Chambers Creek Rd., Steilacoom

• Best Paved Trail: Chambers Creek Regional Park, 6320 Grandview Dr. W., University Place

Free Last-Minute Apple Picking

• In-Forest Picking: Portland Avenue Park and Center, 3513 Portland Ave., Tacoma

• Inner-City Picking: Curran Apple Orchard, 3920 Grandview Dr. W., University Place

• Sound Views: Pioneer Park, 1700 Commercial St., Steilacoom

Best Fall Hikes

• For Long Meanders: Farrell’s Marsh, 1225 Chamber St., Steilacoom

• From Sound to Old Forest: Point Defiance Park, 5400 N. Pearl St., Tacoma

• Bird Viewing and Boardwalks: Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, 100 Brown Farm Rd., Olympia

Northwest Trolls With nice days on their way out, fall is the perfect time to grab your picnic blanket and go on a short road trip to one of the five giant Northwest trolls. These larger-than-life named troll sculptures are fun for the whole family, especially when a ferry ride is involved. Bruun Idun is located in West Seattle’s Lincoln Park, Frankie Feetsplinters in Ballard’s National Nordic Museum, Jakob Two Trees on Rainier Trail in Issaquah, Oscar the Bird King in Point Robinson Park on Vashon Island and Pia the Peacekeeper on Bainbridge Island at Sakai Park. NWTrolls.org