Fall is an ideal season to visit U.S. national parks, with thinner crowds, cheaper lodging, and stunning foliage making for a perfect adventure. 

Parks like Great Smoky Mountains, Zion, and Acadia each offer unique fall experiences, from the vibrant colors of deciduous forests to cooler hiking weather and scenic drives. In the Smokies, trails like Alum Cave and drives through Cade’s Cove come alive with color, while Zion’s cottonwoods turn golden beneath towering red rock cliffs. 

Acadia shines with coastal sunrises, colorful hikes like the Bubble Trail, and charming downtime in Bar Harbor. Fall travel also opens up opportunities for budget-friendly accommodations, fewer lines at popular spots, and unique perspectives like helicopter tours or bike rides through canyons. 

Finsum: Whether you’re chasing peak colors or quieter trails, these national parks showcase autumn at its very best.