Cool Places

Here Are The Best National Parks To Visit In The Fall

During summer’s last few weeks, you may look forward to spending more time at home with your family. The fall season is one of the best times for outdoor exploration in the U.S. Fortunately; we live in an area rich in natural wonders.

Jim Pattiz, the co-founder of More Than Just Parks, said autumn is his favorite time of year to visit the national parks. There are less crowding and travel prices than during the peak summer season. During this time of year, animals are on the move as they prepare for the winter.

Fall is a great time to visit some parks. Pattiz and other experts shared their favorite fall-season national parks.

Image Credit: Shutterstock/Greenwater Rush

Acadia National Park

In the fall, Riley Mahoney, creator of The Parks Expert, recommends Acadia National Park in Maine. She said, “The fall colors are astounding, deep reds, oranges, and yellows in the best years. The fall also brings cooler weather, excellent for hiking.”

In the fall, after peregrine falcon nesting season ends, Mahoney suggests experienced hikers explore Precipice Trail, one of the park’s most popular experiences. She said, “The harrowing path is not for small children or those with a fear of heights, but perfect for anyone seeking a memorable fall adventure.”

Rocky Mountain National Park

Mahoney said, “Rocky Mountain National Park is painted with beautiful yellow aspen trees each fall, lining the famous Trail Ridge Road.” In addition to the cooler fall temperatures, she warned that snow is also possible, so be prepared.

Fall foliage displays blanket the valleys and mountainsides in orange, gold, and yellow colors,” he said, adding that elk rutting season is also impressive.

Image Credit: markbyzewski, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park

 Mikah Meyer, national parks travel expert, said, “The largest park in the National Park Service is also one of the first to show fall colors.” In contrast with summer, you’ll find fewer tourists and bugs visiting Alaska during the fall.

Meyer said, “This will make your hikes around abandoned Kennecott Mines more beautiful due to the changing colors, plus less buggy!”