15 Amazing National Parks to Explore This Autumn for Breathtaking Colors and Quieter Trails

Shenandoah National Park

According to Bill Wade, executive director of the Association of National Park Rangers, the drive from Front Royal, Virginia, to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is one of the premier routes for experiencing fall foliage. This journey will take you through Shenandoah National Park, along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, and into the Great Smokies, featuring numerous delightful stops and breathtaking views along the way. “Foliage changes begin in Shenandoah in early to mid-October and gradually ‘move’ south to Great Smoky Mountains National Park by late October,” he explains. If you’re nearby and want to catch the peak of autumn colors in Shenandoah, consider following the park on Instagram or tuning into the weekly Fall Broadcast to find the optimal time for your visit.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

“If your mind jumps to New England at the mention of fall foliage, Great Smoky Mountains National Park would like to chime in,” says Palmer. Nestled between North Carolina and Tennessee, the park boasts 16 mountain peaks soaring above 6,000 feet. “This increased elevation can lead to an extended period of ‘peak foliage’ when the leaves are at their most vibrant,” he explains. “Color changes start at higher (and colder) elevations and gradually move downwards, which ideally offers a longer display of fall's brightest hues for adventurous visitors to enjoy.”

Grand Teton National Park

Autumn isn’t just Jackson Hole’s hidden gem; it’s also one of the prime seasons to explore Grand Teton National Park. The aspen and cottonwood trees burst into brilliant shades of yellow and gold, creating a breathtaking contrast against the Teton Range in the background, while the crowds at Jenny Lake begin to thin out. Additionally, wildlife tours become particularly thrilling as the elk rut occurs from mid-September through October, and bears start to appear as they prepare for hibernation.

Grand Canyon National Park

“The Grand Canyon is a genuine natural marvel that truly deserves its reputation, and everyone should witness it at least once. That’s a given,” says Palmer. When it comes to planning your visit, don’t think summer is your only choice—Palmer makes a “compelling argument” for visiting the park in the fall. “Average temperatures drop from a sweltering 92 degrees in August to a pleasant 75 in October. Furthermore, in October, there are 15 percent fewer visitors compared to July (the park’s peak month), and among those, you’ll likely find very few school-aged children.”

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park in southern Utah is famous for several reasons. First and foremost, it holds the title for the largest collection of hoodoos (towering rock spires) in the world. It also features incredible hiking trails and is recognized as an International Dark Sky Park. While the park welcomes visitors year-round, autumn offers a truly remarkable experience. During this season, Wade notes, you can witness “stunning groves of aspen trees that turn vibrant in October and breathtaking views of the canyon’s colorful geological formations.”

Big Bend National Park

Unlike many national parks in the West, Big Bend National Park reaches its peak season from October to April, as the Texas heat subsides. This cooler climate is perfect for the park’s most beloved activities, including hiking and stargazing, so remember to pack suitable footwear, a water bottle, and some layers (as temperatures can drop significantly at night). If you plan your visit well, you might catch glimpses of fall colors adorning the slopes of the Chisos Mountains.

Rocky Mountain National Park

As fall arrives, Rocky Mountain National Park reveals its most stunning and vibrant self. Although the days grow shorter, they are filled with the calls of bugling elk, pleasantly cool temperatures, and some of the most breathtaking foliage you'll encounter in the West. At higher elevations, the alpine tundra transforms into shades of purple and deep red, while aspen and cottonwood trees across the park dress in golden and orange hues in anticipation of winter.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone is one of the U.S. national parks that presents a unique experience with each passing season. Summer is famous for its sightseeing, hiking, and camping, but as fall approaches, expect “fantastic wildlife viewing,” according to Wade. It's crucial to keep in mind that snow can occur during this time, so always check the weather forecast before venturing into the park and ensure your vehicle is equipped to handle adverse conditions.

Yosemite National Park

While most trees in Yosemite National Park are evergreen, that doesn’t mean you should overlook this destination in the fall. In fact, this season is ideal for those wanting to explore the park with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. If experiencing fall foliage is a top priority, be sure to include the Valley Loop Trail in your plans. In October, the bigleaf maples turn a brilliant yellow, while dogwoods showcase their rich red and purple tones.

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

Wade describes Cumberland Gap National Historical Park as a ‘“less-frequented” national park area rich in history and stunning autumn colors. This 14,000-acre park, which carves a path through the Appalachian Mountains, sits at the intersection of Virginia, Tennessee, and Kentucky. Its rugged landscape features numerous hiking trails and breathtaking views. Wade advises that fall foliage typically begins to appear around mid-October, so plan your visit accordingly.

Acadia National Park

Maine’s Acadia National Park is undoubtedly one of the premier destinations for leaf peeping. The park indicates that peak foliage usually occurs around mid-October, but you can stay updated on fall color changes through the Maine Foliage website (which provides weekly updates in the fall). For the finest views of the vibrant leaves, head to Cadillac Mountain, trek the Beehive Loop Trail, or take a boat tour of Frenchman Bay.

Minute Man National Historical Park

If you’ve already visited Acadia National Park, ensure that Minute Man National Historical Park in Massachusetts is your next stop in the Northeast. “Visiting from late September to mid-October lets you experience New England’s renowned fall foliage, and Minute Man serves as the ideal starting point for a broader exploration of the region during its most picturesque season,” says Palmer.

Congaree National Park

Thanks to South Carolina's mild winters, Congaree National Park welcomes visitors all year round, allowing travelers to tailor their trips to their interests. While those visiting in the fall might miss the spring’s synchronous firefly mating spectacle, they can enjoy stunning foliage peaking in late October and early November. Plus, the cooler temperatures make kayaking on Cedar Creek or hiking the Kingsnake Trail much more enjoyable.

Cape Cod National Seashore

The Cape Cod National Seashore is among the top attractions on Cape Cod, and it’s a favorite of Palmer’s during the fall season. “Although it might seem unusual to visit a beach destination in autumn, it’s truly a rewarding experience,” he explains, adding that the cooler weather enhances the flavor of local clam chowder this time of year. “September and October also mark peak season for the Cape's increasing population of great white sharks, so a leisurely stroll along the beach might offer a chance to spot these magnificent creatures,” he notes.

Arches National Park

Located north of Moab, Arches National Park boasts over 2,000 natural stone arches alongside numerous pinnacles and rock formations. The park sees its highest number of visitors from March to October, requiring timed-entry tickets from April 1 to October 31. However, late fall offers a unique enchantment for stargazers, with shorter days and fewer crowds as you explore spots like the Balanced Rock Picnic Area, Garden of Eden Viewpoint, or Panorama Point.