One of the greatest perks of living in the PNW is being able to experience every season. But, for the many outdoor enthusiasts, the change from summer to autumn means less adventures and more time indoors… Or does it?

Hiking in Autumn comes with many perks, including warm colors, more comfortable temperatures, and fewer crowds. Just because the weather is changing doesn’t mean the hikes and outings have to stop! Autumn is one of the most beautiful times of year in the great PNW, and it deserves to be soaked up just as much as the summer sun. The following hikes make up my 2016 Autumn Adventure Bucket List, and I am happy to share with anyone and everyone who is eager to get outside and broaden their world this season.

1. Yellow Aster Butte.

Located in the Mt. Baker wilderness of Washington, this hike provides views into Canada along with sweeping colorful meadows, making it a popular camping destination. This Autumn, you’ll have your breath taken away by the beautiful reds, yellows, and oranges, making it well worth the 2,550-foot elevation gain.

2. Colchuck Lake.

Located in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, Colchuck Lake is arguably one of the most beautiful hiking destinations in Washington state. Washington Trails Association describes the first time you see it as a “religious experience.” With overarching mountains reflecting against the bright blue water, it is certainly worth the 8-mile trek. While the hike is accessible, overnight stays are only permitted through the end of October.

3. Cape Falcon Trail and Short Sands Beach.

Located just outside Manzanita, Oregon, this little section of paradise is perfect for those days that you want to get away -- but not too far away. Only a short walk from the parking lot, you can reach this secluded little paradise. Having been here several times over the years (and eager to go again), my family has termed the destination “Surfer Beach” due to its popularity for surfing. If you’re looking for a little more of a trek, you can loop around to Cape Falcon and view the beach from above.

4. Tomlike Mountain.

Located near the Columbia River, Gorge, Tomlike Mountain is a lovely year-round hike that provides vast views of the Cascades and Gorge, wildflowers, and forests. When you reach the summit, “take in views of Mt. Rainier, Mt. Adams, and Mt. St Helens to the north over the Columbia River Gorge, and Mt. Hood and Mt. Jefferson to the south.”

5. Stevens Lakes.

Located in a valley below Idaho’s Stevens Peak, this Autumn adventure is a hiker and photographer’s dream. The beautiful evergreens, mixed with red, orange, and yellow hills, reveal the Upper and Lower Stevens Lakes, not to mention view from atop a waterfall.

6. Sunset Beach Park and Stanley Park.

I recently had the pleasure of checking this adventure off my bucket list! Located near the West End of Vancouver, British Columbia, taking a bike ride along the beach and into Stanley Park was as fun as it was beautiful.

7. Naches Peak Loop.

This hike offers a “range of alpine experiences in a short loop.” With lake views, wildflowers, vast meadows, and a stunning view of Mount Rainier, this hike will stun anyone who has the pleasure to stumble upon it. And it’s certainly easy to stumble upon at only a 600-foot elevation gain.

8. Thor’s Pool.

Noted as the most beautiful place in Oregon, this easy walk to the tide pools make for a easy and chill destination to watch the sunset. Wash as the waves create bursts of water as they crash up and out of this “natural wonder.”

9. Saint Mary Lake.

Located in Glacier National Park, Montana, Saint Mary Lake is one of the “most spectacular glacially carved lakes in the country.” The beautiful waterway makes for the perfect kayaking destination, especially during sunrise. Surround yourself with mountainous peaks as they reflect off the water beneath you.

10. Palouse Falls.

The iconic Palouse Falls has been termed the "official waterfall of Washington State." This short 1-mile walk will make for an unforgettable sight and fantastic photography opportunities. The view only becomes more phenomenal at sunset.

11. Horseshoe Bend.

This trail extends along the Chinook river off Mount Baker Highway. While views of mountains and wilderness may be limited, this leisurely stroll does provide beautiful scenery of the river and forest.

12. King’s Peak.

Located on Vancouver Island, this intermediate hike contains beautiful trees, waterfalls, valleys and meadows, and then finally, the alpine via Queen Ridge. From the top of the summit, enjoy views of the Elk River Valley and mountain peaks. There are also a number of opportunities available for climbers.

13. Crater Lake.

Crater Lake National Park is located in southern Oregon. It is the fifth-oldest national park in the United States! People come from all over the country to wander around these blue waters, as it is an excellent destination for hiking and camping, biking, photography, or just hanging out.

14. McClellan Falls.

Relatively unknown until about 2008, this short hike is located in Skamania County, Washington. While this hike is very steep, downhill trek with a significant amount of overgrown greenery, the stunning falls will not disappoint.

15. Jade Lake.

Noted as the most beautiful place in Washington State, Jade Lake offers stunning opportunity for autumn hiking, and for the really ambitious, winter camping. The lake is known for its incredible blue-green waters, that become even more bold against the winter snow. Located at Deception Pass, this intermediate hike offers the opportunity to you to explore Marmot Lake, as well.

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Clearly, just because the days are changing, doesn’t mean your adventurous side should fade. As I mentioned in my Summer Adventure Bucket List, taking the time to explore your own backyard will always be endlessly fulfilling and uplifting. While these 15 spots make up my autumn adventure bucket-list, I will continue to add to it as the season continues.

I highly recommend using TheOutbound.com and downloading their app to discover numerous beautiful destinations in any area for any activity (biking, hiking, kayaking, snowshoeing, chilling, photography, etc.). Use this app to create a seasonal bucket-list of your own!