9 Best National Parks to See Fall Colors (Ranked!)

Hey there, adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts! As the sun starts to mellow and the air gets a little crisper, you know what time it is – fall foliage season!

If you are all about those breathtaking moments when trees turn into a mesmerizing palette of reds, oranges, and yellows, you are in for a treat. We are about to spill the beans on the coolest national parks where you can catch Mother Nature’s annual fashion show.

So grab your scarves, pack some pumpkin-flavored snacks, and let’s dive into the vibrant world of the best national parks to see fall colors.

Get ready to leaf the ordinary behind and embrace the extraordinary!

Nestled along the rugged coastline of Maine, Acadia National Park is a fall foliage paradise that is practically begging to be explored. When it comes to experiencing nature’s artistic flair, this park takes the cake. So, lace up those hiking boots, grab your camera, and let’s dive into why Acadia deserves its spot on the list of the best national parks to see fall colors.

• Location: Acadia National Park resides on Mount Desert Island, off the picturesque coast of Maine. This enchanting haven is a tapestry of granite cliffs, lush forests, and pristine lakes, making it a hotspot for autumn enthusiasts.
• How to Get There: For those flying in, the nearest major airport is Bangor International Airport. From there, it is just a scenic drive of around 50 miles to the park’s entrance. Alternatively, roadtrippers can navigate their way via Route 3 or Route 1.

• Where to Stay: The charming town of Bar Harbor, just a stone’s throw from the park, is your best bet for accommodation. Here are two excellent places that I always stay at:

Bar Harbor Grand Hotel: Offering luxurious comfort with a side of ocean views, this hotel is an ideal base for your Acadia adventures.

Atlantic Eyrie Lodge: Perched on a hill, this lodge treats you to panoramic vistas of the harbor and mountains. It’s cozy and convenient.

The magical transformation begins in late September and dances through mid-October. But remember, nature’s schedule might change its mind slightly, so it is a good idea to keep an eye on updates as the season approaches.

• Cadillac Mountain

The crown jewel of Acadia, this mountain offers breathtaking vistas. Catch the sunrise or sunset for a kaleidoscope of colors that will leave you in awe.

• Jordan Pond Loop Trail

A leisurely hike around Jordan Pond offers spectacular reflections of the fall foliage in the clear waters. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in a pop-over at the Jordan Pond House afterward.

• Sieur de Monts

This serene area houses the Wild Gardens of Acadia and the Nature Center. A leisurely stroll here lets you revel in fall splendor while learning about the local flora.

So there you have it, adventurers – Acadia National Park, where fall unfolds in the most spectacular ways.

Stay tuned as we explore even more of the best national parks to see fall colors!

Y’all ready for a leaf-peeping extravaganza that will leave you awestruck? Get ready to giddy up because we are heading straight to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a place where fall colors unfold like a Southern comfort spread.

This park is like a front-row seat to nature’s most dazzling show, and it is no wonder it is on our list of the best national parks to see fall colors. So grab your flannels and cowboy hats, and let’s mosey on down to the Smokies!

• Location: Straddling the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a sprawling wonderland of misty peaks, lush valleys, and—you guessed it—some of the most vibrant fall foliage in the country.
• How to Get There: Whether you’re coming from Nashville or Asheville, there is a scenic route waiting for you. Follow Highway 441 if you are entering from the Tennessee side, or take the Newfound Gap Road for a truly breathtaking drive.
• Where to Stay: The town of Gatlinburg in Tennessee and Cherokee in North Carolina are your homesteads during your leafy adventure. Here are my top places to stay:

Gatlinburg: Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg is a lively resort that brings a touch of tropical paradise to the Smokies. With comfortable rooms, stunning mountain views, and a fun atmosphere, it’s a great option to unwind after your fall explorations.

Cherokee: Rivers Edge Motel in Cherokee is situated in the heart of Cherokee, this motel offers a convenient base for exploring the southern entrance of the park. Its proximity to the Oconaluftee Visitor Center and the town’s attractions make it an ideal choice.

Mid-October is the golden time to be here. The Smokies put on their fiery attire, and you are invited to the party.

• Clingmans Dome

The highest peak in the park treats you to 360-degree vistas of foliage brilliance. A short hike takes you to the observation tower, where you will feel on top of the world.

• Cades Cove

This historic valley turns into a Technicolor dream during the fall. Drive or bike around the loop road for a chance to spot wildlife amid the foliage.

• Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

This auto-tour offers a symphony of colors along with old homesteads and waterfalls.

So there you have it, folks – the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where fall’s charm hits a Southern drawl. Stay tuned as we continue our journey through the best national parks to see fall colors!

Hold onto your hiking hats, because we are about to take you on a Rocky Mountain high!

Welcome to the Rocky Mountain National Park, where autumn paints the landscape in shades that even the most skilled artists envy. This park is the real deal, a front-row ticket to nature’s most dazzling show.

That is right, it is another must-see on our list of the best national parks to see fall colors. So get ready for a foliage-filled adventure that will leave you breathless.

• Location: Nestled in the heart of Colorado, the Rocky Mountain National Park boasts towering peaks, alpine lakes, and an explosion of fall hues that’s nothing short of magical.
• How to Get There: If you are flying in, Denver International Airport is your gateway. From there take Mount Evans Scenic Byway. It is one of the most popular routes that takes you from Denver International Airport into the heart of the Rocky Mountains. This byway offers breathtaking views as you ascend to high elevations, showcasing the beauty of the Colorado wilderness along the way. It is a fantastic route to experience the grandeur of the Rockies!
• Where to Stay: The charming town of Estes Park is your base camp for all things Rocky Mountain. Here are two fantastic options to consider:

The Inn on Fall River & Fall River Cabins: These options offer a cozy and charming stay along Fall River. The soothing sounds of the river combined with comfortable accommodations create a tranquil retreat that’s perfect for unwinding after your adventures in Rocky Mountain National Park.

The Landing at Estes Park: Nestled in the picturesque town of Estes Park, The Landing offers a mix of modern comfort and stunning mountain views. It’s an ideal base for exploring the park and enjoying the amenities of the town.

From mid-September to early October, the mountains come alive with a symphony of colors that will have you humming along in awe.

• Sprague Lake

This serene alpine lake, surrounded by aspen and evergreen trees, is a picture-perfect spot to capture reflections of the fall foliage on the water’s surface. The easy trail around the lake provides a leisurely stroll amid the vibrant colors.

• Bear Lake Road

As you drive along Bear Lake Road, you’ll be treated to a spectacle of fall colors. Numerous pull-offs along the road offer opportunities to stop and capture the stunning vistas, especially at places like Bierstadt Lake and Glacier Gorge.

• Trail Ridge Road

Known as the “highway to the sky,” Trail Ridge Road offers unparalleled views of the park’s diverse ecosystems and fall foliage as you ascend to elevations above the treeline. Stop at overlooks like Many Parks Curve for sweeping vistas of the colorful landscape below.

Get ready to fall head over hiking boots for the Rocky Mountain National Park – it is a fall foliage dreamland that is ready to sweep you off your feet. Stick around as we uncover more of the best national parks to see fall colors!

Prepare to have your breath taken away by the grandeur of fall in the Grand Teton National Park!

It is time to swap your flip-flops for hiking boots and your beach towels for flannels because we are heading to a land where autumn unfolds in the shadows of towering peaks.

Grand Teton National Park is the epitome of fall splendor, earning its spot on our list of the best national parks to see fall colors. So, embrace the crisp mountain air, and let’s explore this mesmerizing masterpiece of nature.

• Location: Nestled in northwestern Wyoming, the Grand Teton National Park boasts rugged mountain ranges, pristine lakes, and a fall foliage spectacle that’s nothing short of awe-inspiring.
• How to Get There: Fly into Jackson Hole Airport if you’re catching flights, or embark on a scenic road trip via US Highway 26/89/191 to reach the park’s picturesque entrance.
• Where to Stay: Jackson, Wyoming is your cozy hub for embracing the fall wonder of the Grand Tetons.

However, there are other places that I like to stay at as well. Here are my recommendations: Where to Stay in Grand Teton (7 Best Places to Stay).

From late September to early October, the park transforms into a painter’s palette of warm hues that will make you feel like you are walking through a living postcard.

• Scenic Loop Drive

This drive takes you on a picturesque journey through the heart of Grand Teton National Park. As you navigate the loop, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the Teton Range and Snake River, all adorned with the warm hues of fall.

PRO TIP: Make sure to read: 42-Mile SCENIC LOOP DRIVE in GRAND TETON (24 Stops You Can’t Miss)

• Oxbow Bend

This iconic bend in the Snake River offers reflections of the Teton Range amidst a sea of autumn colors. A photographer’s paradise!

• Schwabacher Landing

Another picturesque spot along the Snake River, where you can capture the mountains and fall foliage in perfect harmony.

Grand Teton National Park is a fall fantasy come true – a place where every leaf is a stroke of nature’s brush on a canvas of mountains. Stick around as we continue our journey through the best national parks to see fall colors!

Get ready to dive into a world where the Blue Ridge Mountains meet the autumn sky – welcome to Shenandoah National Park!

It is time to trade city lights for starlit nights because this park is a front-row seat to a fall foliage extravaganza.

Shenandoah earns its place on our list of the best national parks to see fall colors, and it is a place where every step you take is a brushstroke of vibrant beauty. Let’s explore the enchantment of Shenandoah’s fall foliage.

• Location: Nestled in the heart of Virginia, Shenandoah National Park spans the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering panoramic vistas and a kaleidoscope of fall hues.
• How to Get There: Fly into Washington Dulles International Airport if you are coming from afar, and then embark on a scenic drive along Skyline Drive, the park’s main artery, which showcases the stunning fall colors.
• Where to Stay: Front Royal, Virginia, is your gateway to Shenandoah’s autumn splendor. Here are two cozy options for your stay:

Skyland Lodge: Perched on the mountaintop, this lodge offers sweeping views of the Shenandoah Valley and comfortable accommodations.

Big Meadows Lodge: Nestled amidst nature, this lodge provides a rustic charm that perfectly complements the fall ambiance.

From mid-October to early November, the park becomes a symphony of warm hues, as if the mountains themselves are joining in the fall chorus.

• Skyline Drive

As you wind along this scenic drive, you’ll encounter breathtaking overlooks and pull-offs, each offering a different perspective of the vibrant foliage.

• Dark Hollow Falls

This trail takes you through a shaded forest, and in the fall, the leaves create a vibrant canopy that leads to the stunning Dark Hollow Falls.

• Stony Man Trail

A relatively easy hike that takes you to Stony Man Summit, offering sweeping vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains covered in fall colors.

Shenandoah National Park is a fall escape where the mountains whisper secrets and the trees put on their best attire. Stick with us as we explore more of the best national parks to see fall color!

Get ready to be swept off your feet by a land of icy peaks and fiery foliage – welcome to Glacier National Park!

This wilderness wonderland is where fall arrives in a blaze of color against a backdrop of dramatic mountains. It is no wonder that Glacier is a top contender on our list of the best national parks to see fall colors.

• Location: Tucked away in the rugged wilderness of Montana, Glacier National Park boasts pristine lakes, alpine meadows, and some of the most stunning fall foliage you will ever lay eyes on.
• How to Get There: If you’re flying in, Glacier Park International Airport is your starting point. From there, a scenic drive along the Going-to-the-Sun Road will lead you to the heart of the park.

You might like: 18 Spectacular Stops on Going-to-the-Sun Road: Explore the Beauty of Glacier National Park

• Where to Stay: The gateway town of Whitefish, Montana, is your haven for exploring Glacier’s fall beauty.

However, there are some other places worth checking out: 36 Perfect Places to Stay in Glacier National Park (Inside, West, and East Side Accommodations)

Late September to early October is the golden window when Glacier National Park turns into a mosaic of vibrant colors against the stunning mountain backdrop.

• Going-to-the-Sun Road

This iconic drive is a must during fall when the landscape explodes in a riot of colors. As you wind your way through the mountains, you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring views of golden aspens and fiery undergrowth, making this road trip an unforgettable fall experience.

• St. Mary Lake

This stunning lake, surrounded by rugged peaks and lush forests, transforms into a masterpiece of fall colors during the autumn months. The vibrant foliage reflects in the crystal-clear waters, creating a scene that’s nothing short of breathtaking. Take a stroll along the lakeshore or simply sit by the water’s edge to soak in the beauty.

• Lake McDonald

This picturesque lake reflects the vibrant autumn leaves, creating a scene straight out of a painting. Take a boat tour or simply enjoy a leisurely lakeside stroll to fully appreciate the fall magic.

Glacier National Park is nature’s masterpiece in motion – where glaciers and trees share the spotlight in a spectacular fall performance. Stick around as we continue our exploration of the best national parks to see fall colors!

Get ready to journey into the heart of California’s wild beauty – welcome to Yosemite National Park!

This iconic park is not just famous for its towering waterfalls and majestic cliffs; it is also a fall wonderland that paints the landscape in hues that will steal your heart. No wonder Yosemite has a front-row seat on our list of the best national parks to see fall colors.

So dust off your hiking boots, pack your camera, and let’s dive into the magic of Yosemite’s autumn allure.

• Location: Nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, Yosemite National Park is a natural masterpiece of granite monoliths, lush valleys, and vibrant fall foliage.
• How to Get There: Fly into Fresno Yosemite International Airport for the most direct access to the park. From there, a scenic drive along California Highway 41 will lead you to Yosemite’s entrance.

However, there are several other airports worth checking out for better deals on flights: 9 Airports Near Yosemite (+Pro Tips for Seamless Access)

• Where to Stay: The gateway town of Mariposa, California, is your base for exploring Yosemite’s fall charm.

Make sure to check some other places for better deals: 5 Towns Near Yosemite (with Best Places to Stay and Eat)

Mid-October to early November is when Yosemite’s trees put on their fall finest, turning the landscape into a masterpiece of golden and amber hues.

• Cook’s Meadow Loop Trail

This easygoing loop trail offers a front-row seat to Yosemite’s fall splendor. As you meander through meadows and woodlands, you will be surrounded by a breathtaking palette of golden aspens and vibrant oaks, framed by iconic granite cliffs.

• Mirror Lake

During fall, Mirror Lake transforms into a reflective canvas, mirroring the fiery foliage and dramatic rock formations that surround it. The hike to the lake is a delightful journey, and the payoff is a tranquil scene that captures the essence of autumn in Yosemite.

• Valley View

As you stand at Valley View, you will witness the Merced River flowing gently through the valley, flanked by towering granite walls adorned with fall colors. It is a classic viewpoint that captures the harmony of water, rocks, and foliage.

Yosemite National Park is where waterfalls and leaves compete for your attention – a fall showcase that’s a true feast for the eyes.

Stick around as we continue our exploration of the best national parks to see fall colors!

Get ready to ascend into a realm where towering mountains meet the brilliance of fall – welcome to Mount Rainier National Park!

This Pacific Northwest gem is not just about the iconic volcano; it is also a fall foliage paradise that is waiting to be explored. Mount Rainier has rightfully secured its spot on our list of the best national parks to see fall colors.

So, grab your raincoat (because, well, it is the PNW), and let’s journey into a world where misty peaks and vibrant leaves create an enchanting symphony.

• Location: Nestled in Washington state, Mount Rainier National Park offers a dramatic landscape of glaciated peaks, meadows, and dense forests adorned with fall colors.
• How to Get There: Fly into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, and then embark on a scenic drive to the park via State Route 410 or State Route 706.
• Where to Stay: The gateway towns of Ashford and Packwood offer convenient access to the park. Here are two options for your stay:

Mountain Meadows Inn: This charming inn provides a tranquil escape, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. After a day of exploring Mount Rainier and its fall colors, you can unwind in the comfortable accommodations of the inn, making it a perfect home away from home.

Cowlitz River Lodge: This rustic lodge in Packwood provides a cozy retreat after a day of exploring the park’s fall wonders.

Late September to early October is when Mount Rainier’s vibrant fall foliage peaks, turning the landscape into a mosaic of reds, oranges, and yellows.

• Paradise

Aptly named, the Paradise area is a fall paradise in itself. Wander through meadows blanketed with vibrant foliage, set against the backdrop of the towering mountain. Trails like Skyline Trail and Nisqually Vista Loop offer stunning views of the fall colors.

• Bench Lake

A hike to Bench Lake is a journey through a spectrum of fall hues. The trail takes you past subalpine meadows and evergreen forests, eventually leading to the tranquil shores of Bench Lake surrounded by colorful foliage.

• Myrtle Falls

Easily accessible from Paradise, Myrtle Falls offers a stunning vista of the falls framed by brilliant fall colors. This short hike is perfect for those seeking a taste of the park’s beauty without an extensive trek.

Mount Rainier National Park is where mist and mountains meet a canvas of fall colors – a place that’s as ethereal as it is stunning.

Stick around as we continue our exploration of the best national parks to see fall colors!

Get ready to be transported to a land of towering red rock and fall’s fiery brilliance – welcome to Zion National Park!

This southwestern wonder is not just about stunning canyons; it is also a fall foliage paradise that’s ready to mesmerize. Zion’s unique blend of dramatic landscapes and vibrant leaves makes it a surefire contender on our list of the best national parks to see fall colors.

Let’s journey into a world where sandstone cliffs and autumn leaves coexist in harmony.

• Location: Nestled in the heart of southern Utah, Zion National Park is a masterpiece of towering cliffs, deep canyons, and vibrant fall foliage.
• How to Get There: Fly into McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, and then take a scenic drive northeast to reach the park. State Route 9 will lead you to Zion’s entrance.
• Where to Stay: The nearby town of Springdale, Utah, is your base camp for exploring Zion and its fall splendors.

Here are more options for your stay: 6 Towns And Cities Near Zion (Best Places to Stay and Eat)

Late October to early November is when Zion’s cottonwood trees and other foliage reach their peak, transforming the landscape into a tapestry of red, orange, and gold.

• Zion Canyon Scenic Drive

This drive offers stunning views of the canyon walls and the vibrant fall foliage along the Virgin River.

You might like: 13 Best Stops on SCENIC DRIVE in Zion National Park (Useful Maps+Practical Tips)

• Canyon Overlook Trail

A short and rewarding hike that leads to breathtaking views of the Zion Canyon, framed by colorful leaves.

• Watchman Trail

This trail offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in Zion’s fall colors. Along the way, you will be rewarded with awesome views of Watchman Mountain.

Zion National Park is where sandstone and fall colors dance in perfect harmony – a place that will make you appreciate the beauty of nature’s contrast.