10 National Parks to Visit in Fall 🍂

Fall is the magic season for exploring America’s wild places. 🍁 The summer crowds are gone, the air is crisp, and nature puts on its most colorful show. From fiery red maples to golden aspens, here are 10 national parks that shine brightest in autumn.

1. Acadia National Park, Maine 🦞

Acadia bursts into color every October. Think rugged coastlines, lighthouses, and mountain views framed by red and orange trees. Don’t miss Cadillac Mountain at sunrise.

2. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee & North Carolina 🌄

Known for its endless ridges, the Smokies turn into a rolling sea of fall colors. Scenic drives and black bear sightings add to the charm.

3. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia 🚗

Skyline Drive is a fall classic. Picture 100 miles of winding road surrounded by brilliant orange, gold, and scarlet leaves. Perfect for leaf peepers.

4. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado 🏔️

Aspen trees turn the mountains gold, and elk bugling season is in full swing. Autumn in the Rockies feels like stepping into a postcard.

5. Yosemite National Park, California 🌲

Summer crowds thin out, waterfalls return, and Yosemite Valley glows with amber-colored trees against towering granite cliffs.

6. Zion National Park, Utah 🏜️

Fall cools the desert heat, making hikes through The Narrows or Angels Landing far more enjoyable. Cottonwoods along the Virgin River turn golden yellow.

7. Glacier National Park, Montana ❄️

Wildlife is active before winter, and larch trees shift into glowing shades of yellow. Crisp mornings + mountain reflections = pure autumn bliss.

8. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio 🚂

This underrated gem bursts with fall foliage. Ride the scenic railroad for a cozy, leaf-peeping adventure through forests and waterfalls.

9. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming 🦬

The jagged peaks are stunning any time, but in fall the aspens glow gold while moose and bison roam in full view.

10. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington 🌸

Rainier’s meadows turn into a painter’s palette of crimson, gold, and purple. The contrast with snowy peaks is unforgettable.

Why Fall is the Best Time 🌟

Cooler weather, fewer crowds, vibrant colors — fall is a sweet spot for national park adventures. Pack your hiking boots, a camera, and a cozy sweater. These parks will remind you why autumn is the season of wander.