Fall is without doubt one of the greatest instances to discover America’s nationwide parks.
The crowds skinny out, the air turns crisp, and landscapes remodel with coloration, mild, and texture.
To uncover probably the most memorable autumn locations, we requested out of doors fans, adventurers, and park lovers to share their favourite nationwide parks to go to within the fall—and what makes each particular.
From the glowing dunes of White Sands to the fiery leaves of Shenandoah, their suggestions spotlight the range and fantastic thing about the U.S. park system when autumn is in full swing.
White Sands: A Serene Desert Fall Expertise
Folks often consider Yellowstone or Shenandoah, however as a U.S. Military veteran, I’m going to say, arms down, White Sands Nationwide Park in New Mexico is the very best.
That will sound counterintuitive, as many individuals envision a desert painted in vivid autumn colours, however the hundred sq. miles of gypsum dunes ebbing and flowing in opposition to the chilly, high quality desert air are a sight to behold in fall.
After years of shuffling in warmth and dryness, I found that the park in October had the identical open skies and open terrain, together with 70-degree days and near-empty trails.
The sunsets listed below are among the many most surreal I’ve ever seen — deep orange skies in opposition to white dunes which are almost snow-like.
Lower than 800,000 folks go to every year (in contrast with greater than 12 million at Nice Smoky Mountains), so you’ve gotten the elbow room and silence that’s more and more troublesome to seek out elsewhere.
My advice to future vacationers: go late within the afternoon, hike into the dunes a couple of mile, and convey a small sled. The gypsum by no means heats up, even after years of trekking miles on it, doesn’t have that “oven impact,” the warmth sink that ordinary sand does out within the desert.
For me, that silence, interrupted solely by the sound of trainers crunching on sand, has the impact of a reset button, a type of desert leaf-peeping, if you’ll. It’s not the “basic fall” journey, however when you’ve spent years in uniform chasing down quiet moments, this one stays with you.
Chad Lipka, President | Chief Advertising Officer, North Shore Sauna
Glacier: Numerous Fall Tenting Adventures
After creating content material about America’s most scenic routes and managing our nationwide occasions program, I’ve camped in dozens of nationwide parks.
Glacier Nationwide Park in Montana takes my prime spot for fall tenting–particularly late September when the larch bushes flip golden however Going-to-the-Solar Highway stays accessible.
What makes Glacier particular is the dramatic temperature distinction you expertise with a truck camper.
You’ll be able to camp at decrease elevations like Apgar the place it’s comfy, then drive as much as Logan Move the place snow would possibly already be dusting the peaks.
I documented this actual state of affairs when filming content material for our Montana & Wyoming loop route–the visible storytelling alternatives are unimaginable.
The dispersed tenting choices across the park’s perimeter are phenomenal for our truck camper group.
In contrast to crowded summer season months, September presents loads of Forest Service roads with epic views and minimal crowds. I’ve discovered websites the place you get up to frost in your camper however by afternoon, you’re mountaineering in a t-shirt.
From a sensible standpoint, fall provides you the wildlife exercise with out the summer season vacationer chaos. The park’s 700+ miles of trails are accessible, the climate is steady, and also you get these crisp mountain mornings that make opening your 4 Wheel Camper door really feel like stepping right into a postcard.
Eric Hyde, Advertising Supervisor, 4 Wheel Campers
Bryce Canyon: Distinctive Autumn Surroundings
After establishing our canvas tents throughout six continents and dealing with glamping websites from deserts to forests, I’d say Bryce Canyon Nationwide Park in Utah takes the crown for fall tenting.
The elevation adjustments there create this unimaginable microclimate impact that most individuals miss – whilst you’re coping with crisp 40-degree mornings, by afternoon you’re in good 70-degree climate that’s splendid for prolonged out of doors stays.
What actually units Bryce aside is how the autumn mild interacts with these pink rock formations. I’ve had shoppers particularly request tent placements to seize that golden hour lighting that occurs round 6 PM in October, and the distinction between the orange aspens and pink hoodoos creates this pure amphitheater impact that you just simply can’t replicate wherever else.
From a sensible tenting perspective, Bryce‘s fall situations are good for canvas tent tenting – low humidity, minimal precipitation, and people temperature swings really assist with condensation administration contained in the tent. We’ve used it as a testing floor for our cold-weather setups as a result of the situations are difficult however predictable.
The stargazing there may be phenomenal too, which is why we developed our stargazing tent. Bryce is definitely a delegated Darkish Sky Park, and in fall you get these crystal-clear nights with out summer season’s warmth distortion affecting visibility.
Caitlyn Stout, Proprietor, Stout Tent
Nice Sand Dunes: Fall Colours with Journey
Dwelling on an 80-acre ranch in Evergreen provides me entry to some unimaginable fall locations, however Nice Sand Dunes Nationwide Park in Colorado is my absolute favourite for October adventures.
The distinction between golden aspen groves within the surrounding Sangre de Cristo Mountains and people large 750-foot dunes creates a surreal panorama you may’t discover wherever else.
What makes it good for fall is the temperature stability – these dunes can hit 140°F in summer season, however October brings splendid situations for sandboarding and mountaineering. I’ve taken my three boys there a number of instances, and watching them surf down North America’s tallest dunes with snow-capped peaks within the background by no means will get outdated.
The design rules I exploit in staging houses really apply right here too – it’s all about layered textures and contrasting components. You get easy sand, rugged mountains, golden aspens, and evergreen forests multi functional body. As somebody who creates lifted areas professionally, this park delivers that very same “wow issue” naturally.
The sensible profit is it’s just a few hours from Denver, so you may simply mix it with different Colorado fall actions. In contrast to crowded leaf-peeping locations, you usually have sections of these large dunes fully to your self in October.
Adam Bocik, Associate, Evergreen Outcomes
Isle Royale: Autumn Tranquility on Lake Superior
In relation to fall in U.S. nationwide parks, my choose is Isle Royale in Michigan—however not for the rationale most individuals count on.
Everybody talks concerning the moose and wolves, and certain, they’re wonderful, however what sticks with me is how quiet the island turns into in autumn. By September, the summer season ferries decelerate, and the place feels prefer it’s exhaling after a busy season.
You’ll hike for hours and never see a soul, which makes the shifting birch leaves and sudden flashes of crimson maples really feel nearly otherworldly, as when you stumbled right into a secret that wasn’t meant to be shared.
The cool half? As a result of it’s on Lake Superior, the autumn climate adjustments quickly—one minute the water’s glassy and nonetheless, the subsequent it’s churning with whitecaps. That unpredictability makes the panorama really feel alive in a manner that’s totally different from the large “fall foliage” locations like Acadia or Shenandoah.
Isle Royale reminds you that nature isn’t a postcard—it’s moody, shifting, and it doesn’t notably care when you’re comfy. That’s what makes being there in fall unforgettable.
Derek Pankaew, CEO & Founder, Listening.com
Arches: A Fall Problem for Out of doors Lovers
As somebody who’s spent years constructing customized Jeeps and hitting rugged trails, I’d advocate Arches Nationwide Park in Utah throughout fall.
The sandstone formations create pure wind limitations that make October tenting extremely comfy in comparison with the brutal summer season warmth.
What makes it good for out of doors fans is the number of bodily challenges. The Fiery Furnace requires precise scrambling and problem-solving – much like the full-body engagement I get from boxing and weight coaching. Your core stability will get examined navigating these slender slot canyons.
The autumn timing eliminates the crowds however maintains good climate for multi-day tenting journeys. I’ve performed week-long expeditions there the place daytime temperatures hit 70°F and nights drop to a crisp 40°F – splendid for somebody like me who loves prolonged backcountry journeys with the children.
From a restoration standpoint, the dry desert air really helps with post-trip muscle restoration higher than humid environments. I discover much less joint stiffness after lengthy hikes there in comparison with different parks, which issues while you’re planning consecutive days of technical path operating or rock scrambling.
Gannon Ward, CEO, Environment Chiropractic and Wellness
Acadia: Nature’s Autumn Design Masterpiece
After spending 15+ years designing out of doors areas and dealing hands-on with landscapes throughout Ohio, I’ve to say that Acadia Nationwide Park in Maine is my best choice.
The granite hardscaping there may be completely unimaginable – these pure stone formations taught me extra about working with stone than any textbook ever might.
What actually captivated me was Cadillac Mountain’s summit path in early October. The best way the autumn colours cascade down into Frenchman Bay beneath is like seeing nature’s personal panorama design masterpiece. I really introduced again design inspiration from these granite pathways and included comparable pure stone patterns into a number of shopper tasks again in Springfield.
The park’s carriage roads are pure genius from a hardscaping perspective. They constructed these gravel paths within the early 1900s that also deal with Maine’s brutal winters completely – no cracking, minimal upkeep. I’ve utilized those self same drainage and materials rules to walkways and driveways for shoppers who want surfaces that may deal with Ohio’s freeze-thaw cycles.
Most individuals miss the true present at Jordan Pond Path the place you may see how water naturally shapes stone over time. As somebody who installs ponds and water options, watching how nature handles water circulation round these large granite boulders gave me concepts I nonetheless use right now.
BJ Hamilton, Proprietor, Natures Personal Landscaping
Massive Bend: Refined Magnificence within the Southwest
Come autumn, Massive Bend Nationwide Park in West Texas turns into a factor of subdued wildness. Canyon mild mellows stone.
Trails close to the Rio Grande tackle hues of bronze and rust.
Daytime temperatures dip into the 60s, and funky nights make a campfire really feel like a very earned indulgence. Javelinas could amble throughout the riverbank, or a golden eagle could soar overhead, providing uncommon sightings that lodge within the reminiscence.
I’m keen on the park’s Window Path, which gives a vista by way of the canyon with strata ranging throughout all shades of pink and brown.
It’s quiet sufficient that the river’s circulation drowns out in your thoughts, and your cellphone will doubtless stay at relaxation. There aren’t any present outlets or guided hikes. As a substitute, you’ve gotten wind and a view that digs into the soul far past the depth of a photograph. This slice of the Southwest appears trustworthy, rugged, and quietly unforgettable come autumn.
Craig Focht, Cofounder & CEO, All Professional Door Restore
Zion: Architectural Magnificence in Autumn
Zion Nationwide Park in Utah is unmatched within the fall as a result of its sandstone cliffs glow in deeper reds in opposition to golden cottonwoods, a distinction that feels nearly architectural in its precision.
In contrast to the everyday fall pilgrimage to New England, the place the sweetness is anticipated, Zion delivers a shock: heat mild chopping throughout canyons, crisp air good for strenuous hikes, and fewer crowds that allow you to expertise solitude.
I’ve walked these trails at daybreak when the rock itself appears alive, shifting hues with each passing minute, and it mirrors the very cause I work with reclaimed stone: the timelessness, the permanence, and the surprising magnificence that emerges when nature meets endurance.
Zion in autumn isn’t simply surroundings; it’s proof that uncooked materials and setting collectively create artwork no human might design.
Erwin Gutenkunst, President and Proprietor, Neolithic Supplies
Mount Rainier: Dramatic Fall Transformation
Mount Rainier Nationwide Park is my favourite out of all of the nationwide parks that I’ve visited.
The reason being the whole transformation that happens there throughout the fall. The meadows round Paradise flip deep pink and orange, and while you see that coloration in opposition to the snow-crowned prime of Rainier, it’s almost unreal.
This season is the very best time to hike the Skyline Path as you get a mixture of cool air, fall colours, and panoramic vistas that stretch so far as you may see. Every flip appears to supply a brand new kind of surroundings that you don’t have any alternative however to cease and admire.
I’ve been to different parks throughout the fall, reminiscent of Shenandoah or the Smokies, the place the rolling mountains glow yellow and orange.
They’re stunning in themselves, however Rainier is totally different attributable to its sheer dimension and the way dramatic the situation is. You may have the identical brilliant colours, solely they’re set in opposition to a background of glaciers and sharp mountains, and this contrasts the entire place extra. Even in comparison with Acadia or Yellowstone, Rainier is extra dynamic within the fall as you observe a collision of so many ecosystems inside a single park.
Gal Cohen, Enterprise Growth Chief & Subject Space Supervisor, JDM Sliding Doorways
Nice Basin: Peaceable Wilderness in Fall
The tranquility of the Nice Basin in fall feels calm and breathtaking.
The air is crisp, the trails are quiet, and the wilderness is much less crowded in comparison with the common parks visited by many. Standing close to Wheeler Peak at almost 13,000 ft, all you may hear is the wind speeding by way of bristlecone pines which have survived hundreds of years on this chilly and windy place.
What I favored probably the most concerning the park is the openness of the wilderness. You’ll be able to hike for miles with out seeing one other individual, permitting you time to understand the golden aspens or the colours of the rocks altering because the solar dips decrease within the western sky. There’s a peaceable but welcoming really feel to this place.
At night time, the sky is the true present. The darkness permits the Milky Option to stretch overhead in a manner that feels shut and brilliant. Mendacity beneath these stars is such an unforgettable second, which is why Nice Basin, particularly throughout fall, is all the time a spot that I consider going again to.
Kyle Sobko, Chief Govt Officer, SonderCare
Yosemite: An Intimate Fall Expertise
For me, it must be Yosemite within the fall.
The crowds skinny out in comparison with summer season, the air feels crisp, and the combination of granite cliffs with the golden leaves is one thing you may’t actually seize in photographs.
I’ve discovered that the quieter trails throughout this season provide you with house to actually take all of it in, nearly such as you’re experiencing the park in a extra private manner.
Plus, the cooler climate makes lengthy hikes a lot extra gratifying.
Vaarrun Bhurria, Advertising Coordinator, Vacation spot Massive Bear
Lassen Volcanic: Fall Colours Meet Geology
Lassen Volcanic Nationwide Park is a superb vacation spot within the fall as a result of it presents a novel mixture of volcanic options with good colours, making it stand out from different nationwide parks. It is without doubt one of the few areas in america the place you may see all 4 forms of volcanoes.
Moreover, within the fall, with the cooler climate, visiting the geothermal areas of the park, such because the mud pots and steam vents, is rather more comfy than in summer season.
Throughout fall, the park’s forests, together with the aspen groves, show magnificent gold and yellow colours radiating in opposition to the darkish volcanic rocks. It’s a uncommon sight that you just can’t discover in lots of different locations.
One other good thing about visiting within the fall is that the primary highway by way of the park stays open till the primary heavy snowfall. So when you arrive earlier than heavy snow, you may drive by way of the park and entry the trailheads. Additionally, throughout the fall, there may be much less visitors, permitting you to benefit from the space with fewer guests.
Matthew Tran, Engineer and Founder, Birchbury
Cuyahoga Valley: Mixing Water and Autumn Shade
There are lots of nationwide parks that I’ve visited throughout the fall season, however what I contemplate my prime one is Cuyahoga Valley Nationwide Park in Ohio.
The factor that makes this park very particular within the fall is the best way the surroundings combines with the water.
The waterfalls, reminiscent of Brandywine Falls, which drops 65 ft, look much more placing framed by glowing bushes.
The Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Path stretches for 20 miles, and biking by way of it in October feels as if you’re passing by way of a residing portray.
Versus greater parks with heavy visitors, Cuyahoga Valley nonetheless has some intimate spots the place it’s possible you’ll sit, breathe, and be with nature. This stability of magnificence and peace is why it stays my primary place to go within the fall season.
Meera Watts, Founder and CEO, Siddhi Yoga
Shenandoah: Rolling Waves of Shade
I’ve been to fairly just a few U.S. nationwide parks thus far, however my favourite to go to is Shenandoah Nationwide Park, particularly within the fall.
I’ve been there fairly just a few instances, each alone (as a pupil) and with my spouse after which youngsters.
It’s merely magical the best way the Blue Ridge Mountains remodel into waves of pink, orange, and gold, and just about each coloration and shade.
Even if you’re not spiritual, you’ll really feel one thing deeply electrical while you take all of it in.
Jeremy Golan SHRM-CP, CPHR, HR Supervisor, Digital HR Hub
Joshua Tree: Distinctive Desert Fall Panorama
Joshua Tree: Two Causes – The Desert Ecosystems and the Unbelievable Rock Formations
The park straddles two distinct deserts—the Mojave and the Colorado—every with its personal local weather, crops, and wildlife.
The Mojave is residence to the long-lasting Joshua Tree (a twisted, spiky member of the yucca household), whereas the decrease Colorado Desert has cholla cacti, ocotillo, and huge open plains. Few locations allow you to expertise two very totally different deserts aspect by aspect.
Huge piles of granite boulders and monzogranite domes make the park a rock climber’s dream. Even when you’re not climbing, formations like Cranium Rock, Arch Rock, and Hidden Valley really feel like strolling by way of a pure sculpture backyard. The best way the rocks catch the sunshine at dawn and sundown makes the panorama much more dramatic.
Marc Bromhall, Founder, Cape Trek
Nice Smoky Mountains: Bursting with Autumn Colours
With the intention of being an out of doors individual, a nationwide park that I would like visiting within the fall is Nice Smoky Mountains Nationwide Park in america.
It has attractive autumnal colours with reds, oranges, and yellows dominating the Appalachian hardwood forests.
Mountaineering and touristic exploration are much more gratifying in such clear air and with magnificent mountain views.
Additionally, extra relaxed temperatures and fewer guests on the paths create the sort of ambiance you need with the intention to take pleasure in all the great thing about the park’s panorama.
Zack Moorin, Acquisitions Supervisor, Zack Buys Homes
Conclusion
From deserts to mountains, forests to coastlines, each park presents one thing distinctive in autumn.
Some, like Glacier and Rainier, dazzle with dramatic seasonal adjustments, whereas others, like White Sands or Joshua Tree, show that fall magnificence isn’t restricted to colourful leaves.
The widespread theme? Fall brings quieter trails, cooler climate, and unforgettable surroundings throughout the U.S. nationwide park system.
Whether or not you’re chasing foliage, solitude, or journey, these expert-recommended parks are a few of the greatest locations to expertise autumn in all its glory.
