Explore These National Parks This Fall

Exploring fall colors and more in these top national parks.

From golden aspens to crimson maples, there are perhaps no better places to revel in fall's natural splendor than in a national park. Of the 63 national parks in the U.S., several are situated perfectly to welcome groups hoping to catch some views of the changing of season. So, encourage your groups to bundle up in their warmest sweaters, pour their favorite hot beverage into a to-go tumbler, and set out to explore these national parks full of autumnal scenery that's just waiting to be discovered.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park
North Carolina | Tennessee
Photo courtesy of NPS.

The country's most visited national park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known for being home to sprawling mountains spanning two states, along with a bounty of diverse flora and fauna, including the park's well-known black bears. During the fall, visiting groups have plenty of options for viewing the park's vibrant hues, whether it's a hike along the Appalachian Trail to Indian Gap or a scenic drive along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.

Groups could also ride along the Blue Ridge Parkway, which extends 469 miles to our next national park.

Shenandoah National Park
Virginia
Photo by Neal Lewis, courtesy of NPS.

Spanning late September through November, Shenandoah's fall season is popular among visitors, and for good reason. Situated a mere 75 miles outside of Washington, DC, the over 200,000 acres of protected lands at the park offer plenty of choices for fall camping, hiking, stargazing and more. The National Park Service recommends planning your visit during the week in order to avoid crowds, as fall is the park's busiest season. Fall color within the park can range dramatically, as elevation varies across its 100 miles, so be sure to check out the park's various ways to track fall color.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Ohio
Photo by Bob Trinnes, courtesy of NPS.

Situated along the Cuyahoga River almost directly between Cleveland and Akron, Cuyahoga Valley National Park delivers on scenery. It boasts over 125 miles of hiking trails, offers the chance to take a scenic train ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, admire 60-foot Brandywine Falls and more. Groups won't want to miss soaking up all the warm colors via the popular Towpath Trail, a 20-mile-long path following the route of the historic Ohio & Erie Canal.

Rocky Mountain National Park
Colorado
Photo by Karen Daugherty, courtesy of NPS.

In the fall, golden aspens abound throughout Rocky Mountain National Park, creating a sight that travelers from all over flock to see each year. Some popular viewing areas include Hidden Valley, Bear Lake Road, Long's Peak, Kawuneeche Valley and more. Groups should of course remain aware of changing weather conditions and view wildlife from a safe distance, as fall is prime elk rut season in the park.

Acadia National Park
Maine
Photo courtesy of NPS.

Acadia National Park's rocky beaches and granite peaks are just some of the reasons the park is referred to the Crown Jewel of the North Atlantic Coast. With peak foliage occurring in early to mid-October, groups will find much to enjoy during this window. Panoramic views along Park Loop Road and Cadillac Summit Road await, while fall biking on the park's 45 miles of carriage roads offers a different point of view for groups looking to feel the wind on their face. Stargazing is also popular this time of year, as light pollution is at a minimum in the park.

Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor of Groups Today.

 Photo by Dave Kiel, courtesy of NPS.