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Chasing Fall at these 10 National Parks

Here is a quick breakdown of 10 National Parks nationwide known for stunning fall colors! Do note that the times are historical estimates, and you'll want to do some research on the specific places, as the weather plays a big role in when colors change.

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee/North Carolina)

• Peak Time: Late September to early November
• Details: The park has a wide range of elevations, so fall colors start in the higher elevations in late September and gradually move down to lower elevations by early November. Mid-October is usually the peak for mid-elevation areas.

2. Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)

• Peak Time: Mid-September to early October
• Details: Aspen trees provide vibrant yellow colors, especially around Bear Lake, Trail Ridge Road, and the Kawuneeche Valley. The colors peak earlier at higher elevations.

3. Acadia National Park (Maine)

• Peak Time: Early to mid-October
• Details: Acadia’s fall colors, including bright reds, oranges, and yellows, peak in early to mid-October. Jordan Pond and Cadillac Mountain are popular spots for viewing.

4. Shenandoah National Park (Virginia)

• Peak Time: Mid to late October
• Details: Skyline Drive offers breathtaking views of fall foliage. Colors typically peak around mid-October, but depending on the weather, it can extend into late October.

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5. Glacier National Park (Montana)

• Peak Time: Mid-September to early October
• Details: The park's larch trees turn a golden yellow, especially along the Going-to-the-Sun Road. The peak is generally in mid-September, but fall colors can last until early October.

6. Yosemite National Park (California)

• Peak Time: Mid to late October
• Details: Yosemite’s fall colors are more subtle, but the dogwoods, oaks, and bigleaf maples provide beautiful yellow and orange hues, especially in the valley. The peak is usually in mid to late October.

7. Zion National Park (Utah)

• Peak Time: Late October to early November
• Details: The cottonwoods, maples, and oaks in Zion Canyon offer stunning displays of yellow, red, and orange. The best time to visit is late October, though colors can persist into early November.

8. Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Ohio)

• Peak Time: Mid to late October
• Details: This park in the Midwest offers a mix of reds, oranges, and yellows. Brandywine Falls and the Ledges area are particularly picturesque during peak foliage, usually mid to late October.

9. Mount Rainier National Park (Washington)

• Peak Time: Late September to early October
• Details: The park’s diverse flora, including huckleberries and vine maples, turn vibrant shades of red and orange. Colors peak at higher elevations first, moving to lower elevations by early October.

10. Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)

• Peak Time: Mid-September to early October
• Details: Aspens and cottonwoods bring golden hues to the park, and the Snake River and Oxbow Bend are prime viewing spots. The peak is typically in mid-to-late September.

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Gear Corner

The REI Labor Day Sale continues until September 2. I highlighted 15 items that caught my eye. ​

You can also shop the sale here on your own!

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