fall and winter in the salem area FALL n What to Do The thick forests and colorful foliage in the Salem area are magnificent in the fall, and you can view it all on a ride through the Black Rock mountain bike trails in Falls City. Hearty hikers can soak up epic views from a former lookout site on the Stahlman Point Trail near Detroit; the Wild Boar Trail near Gates is a familyfriendly hike. Harvest time means nonstop celebrations in the Willamette Valley, so gather the kids for pumpkin picking, hayrides and cider tastings at E.Z. Orchards in Salem or at French Prairie Gardens’ Harvest Festival in St. Paul. Thanksgiving in Wine Country events are also bountiful and not to be missed, as over 60 Willamette Valley wineries offer special tastings, food pairings, live music and more. In September the Mt. Angel Oktoberfest kicks off its annual folk festival with Bavarian food, music, kids’ activities, beer, wine and cider. Come thirsty. n What to Wear Daytime temperatures drop from high 70s to low 50s from September to November; pack sweaters, long pants and a jacket. WINTER n What to Do Usher in the magic of the holidays with twinkling lights, live performances and kids’ activities at the Willamette Heritage Center’s Magic at the Mill. Keep the magical vibes going by taking the family to the holiday classic “The Nutcracker” at the historic Elsinore Theatre. Music lovers can hear an inspiring classical performance by the Salem Philharmonia Orchestra or catch the Salem Symphonic Winds’ annual Salem Tuba Holiday, a performance of holiday songs played by conical instruments. Make your own holiday gifts at a Family Clay Sunday workshop at the Willamette Art Center, and then visit the Salem Holiday Market and support local makers and artists. Get a permit from Recreation.gov and you can even cut down your own tree within designated areas of the Willamette National Forest, creating a family holiday memory you’ll cherish forever. n What to Wear Winter ranges between 35 and 50 degrees with frequent rain showers. Snowfall is rare within Salem city limits; pack a warm jacket, hat, gloves and water-resistant shoes. E.Z. Orchards Harvest Festival 9 TravelSalem.com
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