Fall adventures
Experience a national park this autumn.
Cooler days. Crisp mornings. Golden leaves. Cultural celebrations. These are just some of the many experiences waiting for you in a national park during the fall. From sunset hikes in desert landscapes, to bird watching in mountain parks, to festivals in the heart of the city—however you want to enjoy sweater weather, there's a national park for you.
Autumn activities in national parks
Bird watching
During the fall migration, find your next lifer or try birding for the first time as millions of birds make their way south along the Central and Pacific Flyways. Looking for sandhill cranes, hummingbirds, or migrating shorebirds? Attending a special event in honor of World Migratory Bird Day? There are plenty of ways to make the most of this season, when you visit parks like Coronado National Memorial, Padre Island National Seashore, Channel Islands National Park, and more.
Hiking
One of the best ways to enjoy fall foliage is to take a hike in a national park. The changing light also makes this a great time of year to take photographs. Experience the desert by visiting a Southwestern park such as Saguaro National Park or Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument during this time of year, or head up high to catch fall colors as soon as they emerge at Walnut Canyon National Monument or Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument.
Wildlife viewing
Elk, bison, beavers, and other animals are all on the move, getting ready to mate, or preparing for winter in the fall. Even insects are on the move—Amistad National Recreation Area welcomes thousands of migrating monarch butterflies during this season. All this activity means even more chances to spot wildlife in places like Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area and Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.
Scenic drives
Sunsets are enjoyable at any time of year, but even more so with fall colors. Take a scenic drive, slow down, and soak all of it in when you enjoy Wheeler Peak scenic drive in Great Basin National Park, drive the North and South Rims at Canyon de Chelly National Monument, and many more.
Backpacking and camping
Sleeping under the stars is always special, but cooler temperatures can make this more enjoyable. Pitch your tent at Guadalupe Mountains National Park and hike to the top of the tallest peak in Texas. Camp at Great Basin National Park and walk in an ancient bristlecone pine grove. Experience the cavates and pueblos when you camp at Bandelier National Monument. And stay up to stargaze at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.
Fossils and geology
Not your typical fall activity, but National Fossil Day takes place annually in October during Earth Science Week. Parks like Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument, Guadalupe Mountains National Park, El Malpais National Monument, and others are perfect places to experience America's geoheritage and enjoy a special ranger program.
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National Hispanic Heritage Month
Celebrated each year from September 15 to October 15, Mes de Cultura, or National Hispanic Heritage Month, recognizes the contributions of Hispanic and Latine Americans. Fall is an opportunity to celebrate this diverse community, learn about its complex history, and experience parks with connections to Hispanic heritage during the fall. Some cities close to national parks, such as San Antonio, are also known for their extensive Día de los Muertos celebrations, which is observed each year at the end of October and beginning of November.
Apache Crown Dancers
Native American Heritage Month
Every November, Indigenous peoples from many diverse traditions share their stories, cultures, traditions, and lifeways during Native American Heritage Month. November is an opportunity to visit parks with strong connections to Indigenous heritage such as Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site. Aztec Ruins National Monument, Montezuma Castle National Monument, and many other sites hold special celebrations focused on Indigenous heritage throughout the fall.
Plan your fall trip to a national park
Check out our travel guides for even more tips and tricks on how to experience the national parks this fall.
Five Spectacular Things to Do in National Parks This Fall
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Fall in Southwestern national parks: 7 hidden gems to visit this autumn
Discover seven hidden gem national parks and monuments in Arizona and New Mexico that are perfect for fall travel. Explore scenic hikes, fascinating history, colorful landscapes, and practical tips for planning your autumn adventure.
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Fall often evokes images of cuddling up by a cozy fire with your favorite fall-themed beverage. This year, enjoy that pumpkin-spiced latte or hot apple cider after a day of hiking in beautiful weather and striking autumn hues. In the spirit of the season, we wanted to share seven of our favorite fall getaways tucked away in some of the most beautiful national park sites in the West.
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Astronomy festivals
Half of the park is after dark! Experience the beauty of the night sky when you travel to a national park astronomy festival. Great Basin National Park and Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park each host astronomy festivals, typically in September. Can't make one of these out-of-this-world celebrations? Plan your own stargazing adventure this autumn and attend a special ranger program at a Dark Sky Park.
Events and shopping opportunities at The National Parks Store
Beginning in the fall, The National Parks Store in Oro Valley, Arizona, hosts a rotating lineup of award-winning and renowned artisans and experts representing a variety of artistic traditions and mediums. Featuring Native American jewelry, Mata Ortiz pottery, Indigenous basketry, and much more, these special events celebrate the vibrant artistic heritage of the Southwest. Every purchase you make supports parks.
Itineraries for fall national park road trips
Get inspiration for your autumn adventures with these itineraries.
10 days in Southern Arizona’s National Parks & Monuments
10 days in Southern Arizona’s National Parks & Monuments
12 hours at Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve
12 hours at Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve
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Nearby cities
Make these cities your basecamp for fall adventures in parks.
Flagstaff
A vibrant mountain town, a Dark Sky city, and an outdoor recreation hub in northern Arizona, Flagstaff is near three national monuments—Wupatki, Sunset Crater Volcano, and Walnut Canyon—and is a great place to see fall colors.
Santa Fe
"The City Different" is known for its vibrant arts scene, historic heritage sites, delicious food, and proximity to parks such as Pecos National Historical Park and Bandelier National Monument is a must-visit in autumn. This New Mexico small town has been one of Travel + Leisure's top destinations to visit.
Albuquerque
New Mexico's largest city is a stop on Route 66, a destination for foodies, and the hot air balloon capital of the world. Close to parks such as Petroglyph National Monument, El Malpais National Monument, and El Morro National Monument, Albuquerque is a great stop on a road trip and a good central place to stay for exploring New Mexico.
San Antonio
Close to sites such as San Antonio Missions National Historical Park and Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, San Antonio is known for its massive Día de los Muertos celebrations in late October and early November. It is also recognized as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy—so be sure to check out the food scene.
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Tips for visiting national parks in autumn
Dress in layers
Changing temperatures and weather means it's best to be prepared. Check the forecast before you go but err on the side of caution.
Call ahead
Want to know when fall colors will peak? Each destination is different, so contacting the park is your best bet to get a fall foliage forecast. Ask about ranger programs and events too.
Respect wildlife
Take only pictures and give wildlife plenty of space when you visit a national park.
Visit with respect
These landscapes are on the homelands of many Indigenous peoples. Pack out all trash, leave only footprints, follow park guidelines, and do your research ahead of time.
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