September 23 , 2006
For a few days each Autumn, Heather Meadows is arguably the most beautiful area in Washington. Jewel tones of scarlet red, deep gold, burnt orange and vibrant yellow cover the ground and bushes, framing the evergreens to perfection. Everything glows.

The trick is trying to figure out when it will happen. Last year we were too late. Everything was dry and brown. Today we were early, but it was still well worth the trip.

Here are twelve pictures of the colors. For the next few days it will only get better.

Mount Shuksan across Picture Lake

Foliage on the shore of Picture Lake

Hillsides beginning to change color.

The trail around Picture Lake

Mount Shuksan

Foliage at Artist Point

A view from Artist Point

Mount Shuksan from Artist Point

A pretty hillside

Dead tree with colorful bushes

Mount Baker from Artist Point

Another view of Mount Shuksan

I could practically see the colors changing during the hours we were there. It was amazing. We might try again next week depending on the weather conditions.