6 Best National Parks for Fall Colors — Ranked by Leaf Peepers
Best National Parks for Fall Colors
If you think New England is the only place to see jaw-dropping fall foliage, think again. Across the U.S., National Parks explode with fiery reds, golden yellows, and glowing oranges every autumn — and many of them are less crowded than the typical tourist hotspots.
We’ve ranked the best National Parks for fall colors, based on the experiences of avid travelers and leaf-peepers who know the hidden trails, the quiet overlooks, and the perfect timing for peak color.
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee/North Carolina)
- Why It’s #1: With over 100 species of native trees, the Smokies are like nature’s paint palette.
- Peak Time: Mid to late October.
- Insider Tip: Skip the busy Newfound Gap Road and take the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail for a peaceful, foliage-filled drive.
2. Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)
- Why It’s Amazing: The aspen trees turn entire mountainsides into seas of shimmering gold.
- Peak Time: Late September to early October.
- Must-Do: Drive the Trail Ridge Road — the highest paved road in the U.S. — for panoramic views of golden valleys and snowy peaks.
3. Shenandoah National Park (Virginia)
- Why It Stands Out: Just 75 miles from Washington D.C., Shenandoah offers one of the most accessible foliage experiences in the country.
- Peak Time: Mid to late October.
- Insider Tip: Skyline Drive has 75 overlooks, but if you want fewer crowds, hit the Stony Man Trail for equally epic views.
4. Acadia National Park (Maine)
- Why It’s Unique: Nowhere else can you see coastal cliffs and fiery forests colliding in such a dramatic way.
- Peak Time: Early to mid October.
- Don’t Miss: Sunrise at Cadillac Mountain — the colors glow brighter as the sun comes up over the Atlantic.
5. Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Ohio)
- Why It’s a Hidden Gem: This underrated park in Ohio offers rolling hills, waterfalls, and endless maple forests bursting with color.
- Peak Time: Mid October.
- Local Favorite: Take the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad for a one-of-a-kind fall foliage train ride.
6. Yosemite National Park (California)
- Why It’s Different: While Yosemite is famous for its granite cliffs, in fall its dogwoods, maples, and oaks create a warm tapestry against towering cliffs.
- Peak Time: Late October to early November.
- Pro Tip: Explore the less-crowded Tuolumne Meadows for golden aspens away from the Yosemite Valley crowds.
Best National Parks for Fall Colors
| Park | Best Time | Leaf-Peeper Favorite |
|---|---|---|
| Great Smoky Mountains (TN/NC) | Mid–Late October | Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail |
| Rocky Mountain (CO) | Late Sept–Early October | Trail Ridge Road |
| Shenandoah (VA) | Mid–Late October | Stony Man Trail / Skyline Drive |
| Acadia (ME) | Early–Mid October | Sunrise at Cadillac Mountain |
| Cuyahoga Valley (OH) | Mid October | Scenic Railroad |
| Yosemite (CA) | Late Oct–Early November | Tuolumne Meadows |
Leaf-Peeping Tips for National Parks
- Go Midweek: Crowds are lighter, and parking at trailheads is easier.
- Check Park Websites: Many parks post foliage updates weekly.
- Bring Layers: Fall weather can swing from sunny 70s to frosty mornings fast.
- Photography Hack: Overcast days actually bring out the richest colors.
Plan Your Trip
Each National Park has its own fall personality — from the golden aspens of Colorado to the fiery maples of Maine. Whether you’re planning a bucket-list road trip or a quick weekend getaway, these parks guarantee a fall foliage experience you’ll never forget.
So grab your camera, pack a thermos of cider, and get ready to join the leaf-peepers — because fall waits for no one.
