Fall has arrived for much of the United States, which means that many regions are beginning to see changing leaves. Depending on where you are located, this season can bring vibrant color changes and turn already great views into something truly stunning. One of the best ways to experience fall colors is to head to a national park.
While most parks see some sort of color change this season, a few stand out as great places to enjoy the views. If you’re thinking of planning a fall trip with Utah Luxury Tours or on your own, keep reading. We’re bringing you the best fall hikes in America’s national parks.
Bright Angel Trail in Grand Canyon National Park
The Grand Canyon is already one of the seven wonders of the world and is located in one of the most popular national parks in the country. But come fall, the changing colors of the leaves, set against the incredible views and red cliffs, make for a truly stunning sight.
You don’t have to hike to enjoy the views this season. Head to any overlook in Grand Canyon National Park, and you’re guaranteed a great view. But if you want to get a closer look, there are plenty of trails to choose from. The park’s most iconic hike is the Rim to Rim Trail. But this challenging trek is 24 miles one-way and takes you down into the canyon and back out the other side. Even the most in-shape and experienced hikers will find this trail a challenge.
For a lighter challenge and amazing views this time of year, head to Bright Angel Trail. At 9.9 miles, this trail will still take most of the day. In addition to the views, fall brings cooler temperatures that make this trail’s elevation changes a little more enjoyable.
Polecat Creek Loop in Grand Teton National Park
The varying elevations of Grand Teton National Park, as well as the lush forests that cover much of the park, make for some uniquely beautiful views during the fall season. As temperatures begin to cool, the cottonwoods and willow trees along the banks of the Snake River, the quaking aspens throughout the park, and the many shrubs turn vibrant shades of red, yellow, and orange. With the blue-hued mountains in the distance, these colors pop, providing visitors with some of the most incredible views you’ll find in the park all year long.
There’s truly no spot in the park where you won’t get to enjoy the fall colors. But if you’re looking for an easy, family-friendly hike that’s even better this season, head to Polecat Creek Loop. This 2.5 mile trail has just 120 feet of elevation change, making it a good choice for an easy hike or those with less hiking experience. As the name suggests, you’ll follow the babbling Polecat Creek, which is lined with trees and shrubs that are even more colorful this season.
Emerald Pools in Zion National Park
Zion National Park is best known for its sandstone canyons and towering cliffs. But the park is also filled with lush foliage, including pine and juniper trees in the higher elevations. Many of the park’s trees and shrubs turn yellow and orange this season. This, coupled with cooler temperatures and thinning crowds, makes this a great season to visit the park.
While many visitors dream of hiking Angels Landing during their visit, and the trail certainly offers a great view of the park, it’s not an easy trail. In addition to the challenging elevation and obstacles, the trail also requires a permit, and getting one means entering a lottery. If you can’t hike Angels Landing or are just looking for another great trail to enjoy the fall colors, head to Emerald Pools.
This is actually a series of several trails that lead to the Upper, Middle, and Lower Emerald Pools. The Lower Trail is the easiest, while the hike to the Upper Pool is the longest and most strenuous. No matter which you choose, you’ll be treated to great views of the colorful leaves set against the park’s famous red rock cliffs.
Upper Hawksbill Trail in Shenandoah National Park
While many of the national parks across the West experience changing colors this season, they can’t quite compare to the displays you’ll find out east. If vibrant trees are what you’re after this fall, Shenandoah National Park is a great choice. From late September through October and into November, the park puts on an incredible display as the thick forests turn every shade of red, orange, and yellow. While many parks in the West see fewer crowds this season compared to the summer, this isn’t the case here. If you want to experience incredible views in the fall, be prepared to face crowds and traffic, especially during times of peak color.
Upper Hawksbill Trail is a short, easy hike that offers stunning panoramic views this time of year. To get to the trail, you’ll first climb Skyline Drive, which is why the trail has great views without a difficult trek.
Planning Your Fall Adventure With Utah Luxury Tours
Now that you know a few of the best fall hikes in America’s national parks, it’s time to start planning your next adventure. Utah Luxury Tours has no shortage of trips to choose from, including some that will take you to parks from this list.
If you’re looking to plan an amazing fall adventure, click here to learn why Utah might just be the best choice for your trip.
