Some people live for summer, and others can’t wait for it to end. If you’re in the second group, you’ve been eyeing your flannel shirts and waiting for pumpkin spice to drop. Guess what? Your time is NOW!
It’s coming up on that magical time of the season when the leaves start turning, and nature puts on its most stunning performance. We’re talking about an explosion of vibrant yellows, fiery oranges, and deep reds. And the absolute best front-row seats for this show are in our National Parks. Based on the spots travelers absolutely gush over, here are the parks you need to put on your list for an unforgettable fall adventure.
️ Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
If you want a truly jaw-dropping, “no-filter-needed” fall experience, Grand Teton is your spot. The contrast of the brilliant golden aspen groves against the sharp, snow-dusted peaks of the Teton Range is a sight that will live in your head rent-free. Last fall, travelers couldn’t stop talking about the sheer beauty and the incredible amount of active wildlife.
- Pro Tip: For that iconic reflection photo you’ve seen all over social media, head to Oxbow Bend at sunrise.
- Best Time To Go: The last two weeks of September are pure magic.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia is a certified fall classic for a reason. Located on the rocky coast of Maine, this park delivers a stunning display of orange, yellow, and red foliage right next to the deep blue Atlantic Ocean. The crisp sea air combined with the vibrant colors is an unbeatable combo.
- Pro Tip: Drive the scenic Park Loop Road, but make sure you have a reservation to catch the sunrise from the top of Cadillac Mountain—it’s the first place to see the sun rise in the U.S. and an unforgettable experience.
- Best Time To Go: The first two weeks of October are typically the peak.
🧡 Great Smoky Mountains National Park, NC/TN
This is the heavyweight champion of fall foliage. Because of the huge range in elevation, the colors here put on a long show, starting at the highest peaks and slowly making their way down the mountainsides. The park is home to some of the oldest and largest trees in the country, and their deep reds and lively yellows do not disappoint.
- Pro Tip: The Cades Cove Loop Road gets incredibly busy. The insider move is to go on a Wednesday when it’s vehicle-free and you can bike the loop, or get there right at sunrise to beat the traffic.
- Best Time To Go: The show runs from early October to early November.
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
For the ultimate fall road trip, Shenandoah is king. The main event here is cruising along the 105-mile Skyline Drive, which winds along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The drive features 75 overlooks, each offering a new, breathtaking panorama of rolling hills ablaze with color. Last year, travelers raved about how easy and accessible this world-class foliage experience is.
- Pro Tip: For an easy hike with a massive payoff, hit the Stony Man trail. It’s a gentle 1.6-mile loop that leads to one of the most spectacular views in the entire park.
- Best Time To Go: Mid-to-late October is the sweet spot.
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North Cascades National Park, Washington
Want to see something truly unique and earn some serious bragging rights? Head to the North Cascades to see the golden larches. Larches are conifers that look like evergreens, but their needles turn a brilliant, otherworldly gold in the fall before dropping. Travelers who made the trek last year were absolutely obsessed with this magical, short-lived phenomenon.
- Pro Tip: The Maple Pass Loop is considered the quintessential larch hike in the lower 48. It’s a challenging but incredibly rewarding day on the trail.
- Best Time To Go: The first two weeks of October is the brief but spectacular larch season.
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
If your favorite fall color is a vibrant, shimmering gold, then Rocky Mountain National Park is calling your name. The park’s massive aspen groves turn the mountainsides into a solid sea of yellow. It’s an immersive experience that feels like walking through a golden cathedral.
- Pro Tip: You’ll likely need a timed entry permit to get into the park, so book that online in advance! The Bear Lake Loop is an easy, family-friendly hike that offers classic golden aspen views.
- Best Time To Go: Mid-to-late September.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
Don’t sleep on Ohio! Just a short drive from Cleveland, this park is a surprisingly stunning and accessible fall destination. The valley is filled with sugar maples and sassafras trees that turn fiery reds and deep oranges. The star of the show is Brandywine Falls, a gorgeous 65-foot waterfall that is perfectly framed by the fall foliage.
- Pro Tip: Not in the mood for a hike? Ride the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad for a relaxing and unique way to see the colors from the comfort of a vintage train car.
- Best Time To Go: Mid-to-late October.
So grab your favorite flannel and a pumpkin spice latte, because these stunning national parks are putting on a fall color show you won’t want to miss!
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