Larches are the only conifers that lose their needles, and for a couple of weeks before they do, they turn a gold that looks almost artificial. The whole forest glows, even under grey skies.
I rode through the Okanogan highlands at the start of the season, on forest roads covered in fallen needles, with the ferns already turned rust-red below.
There is no plan for a ride like this beyond being there at the right time. Watch the local reports, pack a warmer sleeping bag than you think you need, and go.