15 Best National Parks to Visit This Fall for Stunning Foliage and Fewer Crowds

1. Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia's rugged coastline, granite peaks, and dense forests transform into a tapestry of color in October. Drive the scenic Park Loop Road, hike to the summit of Cadillac Mountain for panoramic views, or explore the historic carriage roads by bike or on foot. The combination of vibrant foliage and stunning ocean views makes Acadia a truly unique fall destination.

2. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Located just a short drive from Washington D.C., Shenandoah National Park offers easy access to breathtaking fall foliage. Skyline Drive, a 105-mile road that winds along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, provides endless opportunities to admire the vibrant hues. Hike to iconic overlooks like Hawksbill Summit or Dark Hollow Falls for spectacular views.

3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina & Tennessee

Straddling the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, Great Smoky Mountains National Park boasts an impressive diversity of tree species, resulting in a kaleidoscope of color during the fall. Explore the numerous hiking trails, visit historic structures like Cades Cove, or drive the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway for unparalleled views of the autumn landscape. Be sure to check foliage reports before you go to time your visit for peak color.

4. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

Just a short drive from Cleveland and Akron, Cuyahoga Valley National Park provides a peaceful escape into nature. The Cuyahoga River winds its way through the park, offering stunning reflections of the colorful trees along its banks. Hike to Brandywine Falls, explore the historic Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, or take a scenic train ride through the valley.

5. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

While known for its alpine scenery, Rocky Mountain National Park also offers spectacular fall foliage, especially in the lower elevations. Aspens turn a brilliant gold, creating a stunning contrast against the evergreen forests and towering peaks. Drive Trail Ridge Road, hike to Bear Lake, or explore the quiet trails around Sprague Lake for breathtaking views.

6. North Cascades National Park, Washington

Venture into the rugged wilderness of North Cascades National Park and witness the transformation of its forests into a vibrant tapestry of color. While the evergreen forests dominate, pockets of deciduous trees create stunning splashes of red, orange, and yellow. Hike to Diablo Lake Overlook, explore the trails around Ross Lake, or take a scenic drive along the North Cascades Highway.

7. Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park is a land of towering peaks, pristine lakes, and expansive forests. In the fall, the larches turn a brilliant gold, creating a breathtaking contrast against the rugged landscape. Drive the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, hike to Avalanche Lake, or explore the quiet trails around Lake McDonald for stunning views of the autumn colors.

8. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

Mount Rainier National Park offers stunning views of the iconic volcano, surrounded by lush forests that transform into a vibrant display of fall foliage. Hike to Myrtle Falls, explore the trails around Paradise, or drive the scenic Stevens Canyon Road for panoramic views of the autumn landscape. The combination of the majestic mountain and colorful forests makes Mount Rainier a truly unforgettable fall destination.

9. White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire

Okay, so this one's a National Forest, not a National Park, but it deserves a mention. The White Mountain National Forest is renowned for its spectacular fall foliage. The Kancamagus Highway, also known as the "Kanc," is a scenic byway that winds through the heart of the forest, offering breathtaking views of the colorful trees. Hike to Diana's Baths, explore the Flume Gorge, or take a scenic train ride through the mountains.

10. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore offers a unique combination of colorful forests and stunning sandstone cliffs along the shores of Lake Superior. Hike along the North Country Trail, take a boat tour to admire the colorful cliffs, or kayak along the shoreline for a closer look at the fall foliage. The contrast between the vibrant colors and the turquoise waters of Lake Superior is truly breathtaking.

11. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Grand Teton National Park is known for its stunning mountain scenery and abundant wildlife. In the fall, the aspen groves turn a brilliant gold, creating a beautiful contrast against the rugged peaks. Hike to Jenny Lake, explore the trails around Oxbow Bend, or take a scenic drive along the Teton Park Road for breathtaking views.

12. Yosemite National Park, California

While Yosemite is famous for its waterfalls and granite cliffs, it also offers stunning fall foliage, particularly in Yosemite Valley. The black oaks turn a vibrant gold, creating a beautiful contrast against the iconic landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome. Hike to Yosemite Falls, explore the trails around Mirror Lake, or take a scenic drive through the valley.

13. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Voyageurs National Park, a water-based park bordering Canada, offers a unique perspective on fall foliage. Explore the park by boat or canoe, paddling through interconnected lakes and waterways surrounded by colorful forests. Hike to scenic overlooks, fish for walleye, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

14. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

While not known for dense forests, Bryce Canyon National Park offers a unique take on fall foliage. The scattered pockets of vegetation turn a brilliant gold and red, creating a stunning contrast against the iconic hoodoos. Hike along the rim trail, descend into the canyon on the Navajo Loop Trail, or enjoy a stargazing program under the dark night sky.

15. Congaree National Park, South Carolina

Congaree National Park protects the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States. In the fall, the trees transform into a vibrant display of color, creating a stunning spectacle. Explore the park on foot, paddling a canoe through Cedar Creek, or take a guided ranger tour.

To help you plan your perfect fall getaway, here's a table summarizing the best National Parks for foliage, peak viewing times, and key activities:

Remember to check the National Park Service website for current conditions, alerts, and foliage reports before your visit. Happy leaf-peeping!