Fall is among the finest occasions to discover America’s nationwide parks.
The crowds skinny out, the air turns crisp, and landscapes remodel with coloration, gentle, and texture.
To uncover probably the most memorable autumn locations, we requested outside lovers, 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 variety and great thing about the U.S. park system when autumn is in full swing.
White Sands: A Serene Desert Fall Expertise
Individuals normally consider Yellowstone or Shenandoah, however as a U.S. Military veteran, I’m going to say, fingers down, White Sands Nationwide Park in New Mexico is one of the best.
Which 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 towards the chilly, wonderful 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 towards white dunes which are almost snow-like.
Lower than 800,000 folks go to annually (in contrast with greater than 12 million at Nice Smoky Mountains), so you might have the elbow room and silence that’s more and more tough to seek out elsewhere.
My suggestion to future vacationers: go late within the afternoon, hike into the dunes a couple of mile, and produce 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 standard sand does out within the desert.
For me, that silence, interrupted solely by the sound of shoes crunching on sand, has the impact of a reset button, a kind of desert leaf-peeping, if you’ll. It’s not the “traditional fall” journey, however in the event 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: Various 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 possibly can camp at decrease elevations like Apgar the place it’s comfy, then drive as much as Logan Go the place snow may already be dusting the peaks.
I documented this precise situation 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 time months, September gives 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 mountain climbing in a t-shirt.
From a sensible standpoint, fall provides you the wildlife exercise with out the summer time vacationer chaos. The park’s 700+ miles of trails are accessible, the climate is secure, 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 modifications there create this unimaginable microclimate impact that most individuals miss – when you’re coping with crisp 40-degree mornings, by afternoon you’re in excellent 70-degree climate that’s preferrred for prolonged outside stays.
What actually units Bryce aside is how the autumn gentle interacts with these purple rock formations. I’ve had purchasers 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 purple hoodoos creates this pure amphitheater impact that you simply simply can’t replicate wherever else.
From a sensible tenting perspective, Bryce‘s fall situations are excellent 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 chosen Darkish Sky Park, and in fall you get these crystal-clear nights with out summer time’s warmth distortion affecting visibility.
Caitlyn Stout, Proprietor, Stout Tent
Nice Sand Dunes: Fall Colours with Journey
Residing 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 huge 750-foot dunes creates a surreal panorama you may’t discover wherever else.
What makes it excellent for fall is the temperature steadiness – these dunes can hit 140°F in summer time, however October brings preferrred situations for sandboarding and mountain climbing. I’ve taken my three boys there a number of occasions, and watching them surf down North America’s tallest dunes with snow-capped peaks within the background by no means will get previous.
The design ideas I take advantage of in staging houses really apply right here too – it’s all about layered textures and contrasting parts. 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 only some 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 huge dunes utterly to your self in October.
Adam Bocik, Companion, Evergreen Outcomes
Isle Royale: Autumn Tranquility on Lake Superior
Relating to fall in U.S. nationwide parks, my decide is Isle Royale in Michigan—however not for the explanation most individuals anticipate.
Everybody talks in regards to the moose and wolves, and positive, they’re wonderful, however what sticks with me is how quiet the island turns into in autumn. By September, the summer time 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 virtually otherworldly, as in the event 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 modifications 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 method that’s completely different from the massive “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 significantly care in the event 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 obstacles that make October tenting extremely comfy in comparison with the brutal summer time warmth.
What makes it excellent for outside lovers 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 slim slot canyons.
The autumn timing eliminates the crowds however maintains excellent climate for multi-day tenting journeys. I’ve carried out week-long expeditions there the place daytime temperatures hit 70°F and nights drop to a crisp 40°F – preferrred 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 if 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 outside 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 may.
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 integrated comparable pure stone patterns into a number of consumer 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 ideas to walkways and driveways for purchasers 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 stream round these huge granite boulders gave me concepts I nonetheless use at the moment.
BJ Hamilton, Proprietor, Natures Personal Landscaping
Huge Bend: Refined Magnificence within the Southwest
Come autumn, Huge Bend Nationwide Park in West Texas turns into a factor of subdued wildness. Canyon gentle 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 really 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 supplies a vista by means of the canyon with strata ranging throughout all shades of purple and brown.
It’s quiet sufficient that the river’s stream drowns out in your thoughts, and your telephone will possible stay at relaxation. There aren’t any present outlets or guided hikes. As a substitute, you might have 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 towards golden cottonwoods, a distinction that feels virtually architectural in its precision.
In contrast to the everyday fall pilgrimage to New England, the place the wonder is predicted, Zion delivers a shock: heat gentle chopping throughout canyons, crisp air excellent 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 purpose 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 may 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 entire transformation that happens there throughout the fall. The meadows round Paradise flip deep purple and orange, and if you see that coloration towards the snow-crowned prime of Rainier, it’s almost unreal.
This season is one of the 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 sort of surroundings that you haven’t 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 lovely in themselves, however Rainier is completely different as a result of its sheer dimension and the way dramatic the placement is. You’ve the identical brilliant colours, solely they’re set towards 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 in style parks visited by many. Standing close to Wheeler Peak at almost 13,000 ft, all you may hear is the wind speeding by means of bristlecone pines which have survived 1000’s of years on this chilly and windy place.
What I favored probably the most in regards to the park is the openness of the wilderness. You possibly can hike for miles with out seeing one other particular person, 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 evening, the sky is the true present. The darkness permits the Milky Strategy to stretch overhead in a method that feels shut and brilliant. Mendacity beneath these stars is such an unforgettable second, which is why Nice Basin, particularly throughout fall, is at all times a spot that I consider going again to.
Kyle Sobko, Chief Government Officer, SonderCare
Yosemite: An Intimate Fall Expertise
For me, it needs to be Yosemite within the fall.
The crowds skinny out in comparison with summer time, the air feels crisp, and the combo of granite cliffs with the golden leaves is one thing you may’t actually seize in images.
I’ve discovered that the quieter trails throughout this season provide you with area to actually take all of it in, virtually such as you’re experiencing the park in a extra private method.
Plus, the cooler climate makes lengthy hikes a lot extra pleasurable.
Vaarrun Bhurria, Advertising Coordinator, Vacation spot Huge Bear
Lassen Volcanic: Fall Colours Meet Geology
Lassen Volcanic Nationwide Park is a superb vacation spot within the fall as a result of it gives a singular mixture of volcanic options with good colours, making it stand out from different nationwide parks. It is among the few areas in the USA 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 way more comfy than in summer time.
Throughout fall, the park’s forests, together with the aspen groves, show magnificent gold and yellow colours radiating towards the darkish volcanic rocks. It’s a uncommon sight that you simply can’t discover in lots of different locations.
One other advantage of visiting within the fall is that the principle street by means of the park stays open till the primary heavy snowfall. So in the event you arrive earlier than heavy snow, you may drive by means 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 Coloration
There are a lot of nationwide parks that I’ve visited throughout the fall season, however what I take into account my prime one is Cuyahoga Valley Nationwide Park in Ohio.
The factor that makes this park very particular within the fall is the way in which 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 means of it in October feels as in case you are passing by means of a dwelling portray.
Versus larger 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 steadiness 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 Coloration
I’ve been to fairly just a few U.S. nationwide parks up to now, however my favourite to go to is Shenandoah Nationwide Park, particularly within the fall.
I’ve been there fairly just a few occasions, each alone (as a pupil) and with my spouse after which kids.
It’s merely magical the way in which the Blue Ridge Mountains remodel into waves of purple, orange, and gold, and just about each coloration and shade.
Even in case you are not non secular, you’ll really feel one thing deeply electrical if 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 dwelling to the enduring 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 completely different deserts facet by facet.
Huge piles of granite boulders and monzogranite domes make the park a rock climber’s dream. Even in the event you’re not climbing, formations like Cranium Rock, Arch Rock, and Hidden Valley really feel like strolling by means 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 outside particular person, a nationwide park that I would like visiting within the fall is Nice Smoky Mountains Nationwide Park in the USA.
It has attractive autumnal colours with reds, oranges, and yellows dominating the Appalachian hardwood forests.
Climbing and touristic exploration are much more pleasurable in such clear air and with magnificent mountain views.
Additionally, extra relaxed temperatures and fewer guests on the paths create the type of ambiance you need to be able to get pleasure from 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 gives one thing distinctive in autumn.
Some, like Glacier and Rainier, dazzle with dramatic seasonal modifications, 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 finest locations to expertise autumn in all its glory.
