The Pacific Northwest is a land of breathtaking contrasts and vibrant colors, where nature puts on a spectacular show throughout the year. From the rolling hills painted in golden hues to deep blue lakes nestled in volcanic craters, this region offers an array of stunning landscapes that beckon road trippers and adventurers alike.

Whether you’re cruising past endless fields of tulips or wandering through towering redwood forests, the Pacific Northwest’s beauty is impossible to ignore. Each destination offers a unique palette of colors, transforming even a simple drive into an unforgettable journey.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the most colorful places you can visit across Washington, Oregon, and Northern California. If you’re a natural beauty lover, eager for a picturesque road trip, or simply looking to discover the vibrant heart of this region, you won’t want to miss these spectacular sights. Buckle up, and let the adventure begin!

1. The Painted Hills, Oregon

The Painted Hills, part of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, are a geological wonder that showcases nature’s artistic brilliance. Layers of red, gold, black, and tan-colored soil create a mesmerizing landscape that changes hues with the shifting sunlight and moisture levels.

These hills, formed by volcanic ash deposits over millions of years, offer visitors a glimpse into Earth’s ancient past. Walking trails wind through the colorful mounds, allowing close-up views of the intricate patterns and textures.

The surreal beauty of the Painted Hills, set against the vast Oregon sky, creates an otherworldly experience that captivates photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.

• Take the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway for a picturesque route that includes other units of the John Day Fossil Beds.
• Best time to visit: Late afternoon in spring or fall for the most vibrant colors and comfortable temperatures.

2. Lassen Volcanic National Park, California

Lassen Volcanic National Park is a dynamic landscape shaped by fire and ice. Home to all four types of volcanoes in the world, the park’s centerpiece is Lassen Peak, the largest plug-dome volcano in the world. Visitors can explore diverse geothermal features, including roaring fumaroles, bubbling mud pots, and steaming ground.

The park also boasts crystal-clear mountain lakes, lush meadows bursting with wildflowers, and dense forests. Hiking trails offer breathtaking views of the volcanic terrain, while the night sky provides an unparalleled stargazing experience due to the park’s remote location and dark skies.

• Best time to visit: July to September, when all park roads and trails are typically open and free of snow (the 30-mile Lassen Volcanic National Park Highway is typically closed due to snowfall from October to June)

3. Columbia River Gorge, Washington/Oregon

The Columbia River Gorge, straddling the border between Oregon and Washington, is a breathtaking river canyon carved by the mighty Columbia River. This 80-mile-long scenic area is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, numerous waterfalls, and diverse ecosystems.

Multnomah Falls, with its 611-foot cascade, is the crown jewel among dozens of spectacular waterfalls. The gorge offers a plethora of outdoor activities, from hiking and windsurfing to wine tasting in the surrounding vineyards. The changing seasons paint the landscape in vibrant colors, from spring wildflowers to the rich golds and reds of autumn foliage.

• Take the Historic Columbia River Highway for a scenic route that includes vista points and access to several waterfalls.
• Best time to visit: Spring for abundant wildflowers and gushing waterfalls, or fall for vibrant foliage and fewer crowds.

4. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

Mount Rainier National Park is dominated by the majestic, snow-capped peak of Mount Rainier, an active volcano standing at 14,411 feet. The mountain’s glaciers, alpine meadows, and old-growth forests create a diverse and awe-inspiring landscape.

In summer, the subalpine meadows burst into life with colorful wildflower displays, creating a stunning contrast against the icy peak. The park offers over 260 miles of maintained trails, leading visitors through pristine wilderness, past tumbling waterfalls, and to breathtaking viewpoints. Wildlife, such as black bears, elk, and mountain goats, add to the park’s natural allure.

• While primarily a hiking route, the Wonderland Trail has road-accessible points offering spectacular views of the mountain and surrounding landscapes.
• Best time to visit: July to September for the best weather and wildflower blooms, though the park is beautiful year-round.

5. Redwood National Park and State Parks, California

Redwood National Park and the adjacent state parks protect a significant portion of the world’s tallest trees, the coastal redwoods. These ancient giants, some over 2,000 years old and reaching heights of over 350 feet, create a magical, primeval forest atmosphere.

Misty coastal fog often shrouds the lower parts of the forest, adding to its mystical ambiance. Beyond the redwoods, the parks feature a rugged coastline, open prairie lands, and a rich diversity of wildlife. Visitors can experience the majesty of the redwoods through scenic drives, hiking trails, and even treehouse-like canopy walks.

• Take the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway through the heart of Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park for an unforgettable redwood experience.
• Best time to visit: Year-round, but summer offers the best weather. Winter can be magical with fewer crowds and a moody atmosphere.

6. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Crater Lake National Park is home to one of the most stunning natural wonders in the Pacific Northwest. The lake, formed in the caldera of an ancient volcano, is renowned for its deep blue color and exceptional water clarity. Surrounded by steep cliffs rising nearly 2,000 feet from the water’s edge, Crater Lake offers a mesmerizing panorama that changes with the light and weather.

The park’s diverse landscape includes old-growth forests, meadows bursting with wildflowers, and unique volcanic features. Hiking trails provide breathtaking vistas of the lake and surrounding Cascade Mountains, while boat tours offer a unique perspective from the water’s surface.

• The 33-mile Scenic Rim Drive encircles the lake, offering 30+ pullouts with spectacular viewpoints.
• Best time to visit: July to September when all park facilities are open, and the weather is most favorable. Winter offers a serene, snow-covered landscape for those prepared for cold conditions, but be aware that the Scenic Rim Drive is closed from 1 November to the beginning of May.

7. Skagit Valley Tulip Fields

Each spring, the Skagit Valley in Washington transforms into a breathtaking patchwork of vibrant colors as millions of tulips burst into bloom. The tulip fields, part of a thriving bulb-growing industry, create a stunning visual spectacle reminiscent of the Netherlands.

Rows upon rows of tulips in every imaginable hue stretch across the flat valley floor, set against the backdrop of the Cascade Mountains. The annual Skagit Valley Tulip Festival celebrates this natural phenomenon, drawing visitors from around the world to marvel at the colorful displays, participate in events, and explore charming local communities.

• Follow the tulip route marked by special signs during the festival, which provides the best views of the fields and access to display gardens.
• Best time to visit: April, during the peak of tulip bloom. Exact timing can vary, so check the festival website for bloom updates.

8. Silver Falls State Park

Silver Falls State Park, known as the “crown jewel” of the Oregon State Parks system, is a lush, temperate rainforest paradise. The park’s claim to fame is the Trail of Ten Falls, a spectacular hiking loop that passes by ten stunning waterfalls, some of which you can walk behind. The centerpiece is the 177-foot South Falls, where the trail leads visitors through a cave-like passage behind the thundering curtain of water.

Moss-covered trees, fern-lined paths, and the constant sound of rushing water create an enchanting, almost primeval atmosphere. The park’s diverse ecosystems support a wide variety of plant and animal life, making it a haven for nature lovers and photographers.

• Take the winding road to South Falls Lodge for a scenic drive through the forest and easy access to the most popular waterfall.
• Best time to visit: Spring for peak water flow in the falls, or autumn for vibrant fall colors and fewer crowds.

9. Mount Hood Scenic Loop, Oregon

The Mount Hood Scenic Loop offers a diverse journey through some of Oregon’s most stunning landscapes. Centered around the majestic, snow-capped Mount Hood, the loop takes travelers through lush forests, past sparkling lakes, and into charming mountain communities.

The route showcases the area’s natural beauty in all seasons, from spring wildflowers to autumn foliage. Along the way, visitors can explore historic sites like Timberline Lodge, enjoy outdoor activities from hiking to skiing, and sample local produce at farm stands in the fertile Hood River Valley. The changing vistas of Mount Hood, framed by forests and reflected in lakes, provide endless photo opportunities.

• The stretch along the Historic Columbia River Highway offers stunning gorge views and access to several waterfalls.
• Best time to visit: Summer for the best weather and full access to all attractions, or fall for beautiful foliage and harvest season in the fruit orchards.

10. Olympic National Park, Washington

Olympic National Park is a diverse wonderland that encompasses three distinct ecosystems: rugged Pacific coastline, lush temperate rainforest, and dramatic alpine peaks. The park’s varied landscapes offer visitors an incredible range of experiences, from walking along wild beaches strewn with driftwood to hiking through moss-draped old-growth forests in the Hoh Rainforest.

The Olympic Mountains, crowned by glaciers, provide a stunning backdrop and challenging terrain for hikers and climbers. Wildlife is abundant, with opportunities to spot Roosevelt elk, black bears, and a variety of marine life. The park’s remoteness and ecological diversity make it a UNESCO World Heritage site and International Biosphere Reserve.

• The Olympic Peninsula Loop Drive encircles the park, providing access to its diverse regions and several visitor centers.
• Best time to visit: July to September for the best weather and access to high-elevation areas. Spring and fall offer unique experiences with fewer crowds.

There’s something about fall that completely transforms a place. With comfortable temperatures, trees exploding into vibrant colors, sunny days, and crisp air, fall is one of the most wonderful times of the year to get lost in nature.

If you’re wondering where to go this season to experience fall in its full splendor, checking out a few US national parks may just be the ideal vacation for you. With the excuse to slow down now that the end of the year is approaching, fall also brings in much calmer vibes that allow you to be fully present and really notice the things around you.

Best National Parks to Visit in Fall

• Top Tip: Most national parks on this list have an entry fee. We highly recommend you invest in America the Beautiful, the US annual national parks pass. Or do you have a 4th grader in the family eligible for Every Kid Outdoors?

National Park lovers, you may also want to see our guides to:

• The Best US National Parks to Visit in Summer
• The Best US National Parks to Visit in Winter
• The Best US National Parks to Visit in Spring
• Lesser-Known National Parks To Beat the Crowds

1. Rocky Mountain National Park

Location: Colorado

It’s not exactly a secret that Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most beautiful parks in the entire country, but once the temperatures start to drop, this gorgeous place in Colorado turns into a wonderland for glorious views, incredible nature draped in autumn hues, and some of the best opportunities to see wildlife up close.

The dramatic landscape of Rocky Mountain National Park was carved by water and humongous glaciers, making the scenery look like something out of a painting.

As you explore, you’ll stumble across some of the highest peaks in the country, get treated to views of hundreds of alpine lakes and streams, and get to walk over some of the dreamiest hiking trails in the world.

Even though fall does get a little chilly at Rocky Mountain National Park, it’s highly considered the best time of the year to visit for two reasons: One is that fall foliage covers the gorgeous Trail Ridge Road, which is one of the most scenic highways in the United States and seeing it blanketed by golden aspens is a scene unlike any other.

Secondly, fall brings in the elk rut, which is when elk arrive in the area for mating season. Not only will you be able to see hundreds of them up close, but you’ll also be able to attend the annual Elk Fest organized by the park to learn everything about these mountain-roaming creatures through music, live entertainment, storytelling, and interactive activities.

Entrance Fee: $30 per private vehicle, valid for one day, or $35 per vehicle, valid for seven days

Seasonal Closures: Rocky Mountain National Park runs a timed entry system over the busy summer months, ending October 20, 2024. After this time, you can enter all park areas without reservations. Adverse weather conditions may close roads at any time, though. Keep up to date on NPS Twitter.

2. Shenandoah National Park

Location: Virginia

Tucked away in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, Shenandoah National Park is a mecca for those looking for crisp mountain air and glorious fall foliage. Being only an hour from Washington, D.C., it’s no surprise it’s one of the most popular national parks on the East Coast!

Fall foliage in Shenandoah National Park usually begins in early October and lasts until mid-November, making the season quite long.

• We discuss more of our favorite late-fall foliage spotting spots over here

During your visit, you can explore the park in various ways. A favorite for those limited on time is driving the scenic Skyline Road, Virginia, which is considered a treat to the eyes any time of the year but looks especially stunning when fall colors drape the scenery.

Hiking is another must. Shenandoah boasts 516 miles worth of trails, with 101 miles being part of the famous Appalachian Trail! Throughout your hiking adventures, you’ll be able to enjoy fall colors in their full splendor and see plenty of waterfalls, mountains, caverns, and more.

Entrance Fee: $30 per private vehicle, valid for seven days

Seasonal Closures: Fall is the peak season for Shenandoah, so do expect queuing and crowds, especially on weekends. You can check out precise conditions on their webcams!

The park stays open throughout winter; however, icy conditions can close Skyline Drive from mid-November through February. Dickey Ridge Visitor Center and lodges within the park close in late November. Most campsites close on October 30, while Big Meadow stays open until November 30 for magnificent fall camping.

3. Acadia National Park

Location: Maine

Acadia National Park definitely takes the cake when it comes to quintessential fall destinations on the East Coast.

Even though Acadia is gorgeous year-round, there’s no better time to visit than the fall months, especially if vibrant autumn colors are what you’re after.

Home to a humongous offering of glorious natural landscapes ranging from woodlands to mountains, lakes, and dramatic coastlines, this is one of the best national parks to visit in the fall if you’re after picturesque views and a variety of recreational activities.

Once September creeps in, Acadia starts showing beautiful fall colors ranging from crisp gold to vibrant reds. Peak season usually happens around mid-October, but even if you can’t make it during that time, you’ll still find a wonderland of colors if you visit a bit earlier or later.

Some of the best ways to make the most out of fall in Acadia include hiking to Cadillac Mountain for panoramic views, driving the Park Loop Road across the park, hiking the Bubbles Nubble Loop to strike off a variety of landscapes, and exploring Eagles Lake by kayak or canoe.

Entrance Fee: $30 per person, valid for 7 days

Seasonal Closures: Not all parts of the park are open over winter; it’s best to check the winter closures schedule before planning a visit from December to April. Most campgrounds close by October 14/21, while Park Loop Road closes on December 1.

• Brilliant ways to explore more of nature’s beauty in Maine

4. Arches National Park

Location: Utah

Perhaps a desert isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when you think of visiting national parks in the fall, but we absolutely had to include Arches National Park in the list because this time of the year is the best time to explore this gem in Utah.

Weather-wise, the temperatures in Arches start to drop in autumn, making it an ideal time for hiking and exploring.

The trails at this Mighty 5 national park are usually mild and perfect for introducing visitors to hiking in the desert. Visitors can also see colossal natural arches and strange rock formations that look almost out of this world.

Some of the best things to do at Arches National Park include hiking to Landscape Arch to see the largest natural rock arch in the world, experiencing a sunrise at Delicate Arch (this is the arch depicted on Utah’s license plates!), driving the Arches Scenic Drive, admiring the scenery at Park Avenue Point, standing under Double Arch, and more.

Entrance Fee: $30 per private vehicle, valid for seven days

Seasonal Closures: The park is open throughout the year, 24 hours a day. However, if you’re visiting before October 31, you’ll also need a timed entry permit.

• You’re best basing yourself in Moab for exploring both Arches and Canyonlands national parks; we share a complete guide to family-friendly Moab over her.

5. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Location: North Carolina and Tennessee

With so many species of trees within its boundaries, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is another wonderland to visit if you want to see fall tones. Seeing vibrant hues of yellows, oranges, and reds backdropped by snow-capped mountains is definitely something everyone should experience at least once in their lives!

Some of the best things to do in the Smokies to fully experience the season are hiking to see a few of the park’s waterfalls (they look absolutely stunning surrounded by autumn colors!), driving the scenic roads that traverse the park (Newfound Gap Road, Morton Overlook, and Clingman’s Dome Road are all amazing), and renting a cabin inside the park to enjoy your very own personal slice of fall in the park.

Fall also brings a plethora of fun festivals, including the Dollywood Harvest Festival, which celebrates the harvest season; the Fall Harvest at the Island, which honors the fall; and the Octoberfest at Ober, which features the area’s German heritage.

Fall foliage usually begins around early October and can be viewed throughout the month until early November. It usually peaks in mid-October.

Entrance Fee: There is no entry fee to Great Smoky Mountains National Park (from 2023, be aware a Parking Tag system will be implemented – applicable if you’ll be parking your car for more than 15 minutes)

Seasonal Closures: The park is open 24 hours a day, though there can be seasonal road closures due to weather conditions in winter – stay in touch with current information on Twitter @SmokiesRoadsNPS. Some campgrounds close between the end of October and the end of November, Cades Cove and Smokemount are open year-round.

6. Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Location: Ohio

As the only national park in Ohio, Cuyahoga Valley is one of the best national parks to visit in the fall if you’d rather check out somewhere that’s not on everyone’s usual radar.

Here, you’ll enjoy crisp evenings and bright sunny days, making this time of year ideal for hiking and exploring (and you’ll find fewer bugs than in the summer!).

Fall foliage usually peaks around the third week of October, but you’ll be able to enjoy the colors pretty much all month, making it one of the prettiest scenic drives in Ohio.

One of the favorite ways for visitors to explore Cuyahoga is by hopping on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad Train, which, as its name may have clued you in, is a train that traverses the valley and provides some of the most beautiful views the entire park has to offer.

Another way to explore is to hike a few trails inside the park. There are over 120 miles of them on the menu. If you’re limited on time, we recommend focusing on the Brandywine Falls trail to see a 65-foot waterfall, the Virginia Kendall Ledges Trail to walk down sandstone rock “ledges,” and the Pine Grove Trail to see beautiful colors.

Entrance Fee: Entry is free

Seasonal Closures: The park is open year-round

• Make the most of your time in Ohio and beyond with these superb Midwest road trip ideas for Fall

7. Mount Rainier National Park

Location: Washington

Boasting an active volcano and the most glaciated mountain in the continental United States, Mount Rainier is another wonderful option in PNW when choosing what national parks to visit in the fall.

Mount Rainier is special because it encompasses many different ecosystems, ranging from lowland forests to wetlands and alpine tundra. Moreover, there are 26 named glaciers here and over 1,000 species of plants and animals, many of which are incredibly endangered and have found a safe haven inside the park.

Once the fall season begins, Mount Rainier bursts into life with different activities. An easy day trip from Seattle, a must-do is going on a naturalist-guided walk to spot Roosevelt Elk during the breeding season in September. Other fun things to do during the autumn include going berry picking and mushroom foraging.

As for hiking, some of the best fall hikes to try include Reflection Lakes, The Morain Trail, Third Burroughs, and the Knapsack Pass. Horseback riding is also a wonderful way to explore the park.

Entrance Fee: $30 per private vehicle, valid for seven days

Seasonal Closures: The park is open year-round. However, it is recommended that visitors check road conditions before setting out. Many of the visitor centers and campgrounds close by mid-October.

• Note that timed entry was introduced to Mount Rainier NP in 2024; summer special conditions for Sunrise Corridor and Paradise Corridor should be lifted by early September and should not impact your fall driving plans

8. Bryce Canyon National Park

Location: Utah

Bryce Canyon National Park is guaranteed to please if you’re more in the mood to escape fall altogether and experience an entirely different landscape.

This striking national park in Utah is famed for being home to the most extensive collection of hoodoos in the world, but due to its location in the desert, summers tend to get scorching hot and winters particularly cold, making fall an ideal time to visit for bearable temperatures.

While there aren’t any fall-themed activities during the season, fall offers a wonderful chance to explore some of Bryce Canyon’s most famous parts without the hordes of crowds, but before the frostiest days of winter.

Some of the best ways to make the most out of your visit include hiking the Queen’s Garden to Navajo Loop, following the Fairyland Loop, and joining a ranger-led program to understand the park’s unique geology fully.

Entrance Fee: $35 per private vehicle, valid seven days

Seasonal Closures: The park is open year-round, and North Campground is always open (no reservations, first come, first served from 7 October); Sunset Campground closes from November 1 – April 14.

9. Grand Canyon National Park

Location: Arizona

With the summer crowds dwindling at the beginning of September, fall is a beautiful time of the year to visit the United States’ most iconic national park.

Not only will you see one of the country’s most internationally recognized natural landscapes without so many people around, but fall means crisp air and much more comfortable temperatures for hiking.

Even though the Grand Canyon isn’t exactly a destination for foliage, if you want to add that to your itinerary, the North Rim section of the park has plenty of patches of golden aspens.

This brings in a unique perspective of the landscape, which looks absolutely gorgeous when splashed with bright yellow tones, especially in late September and early October.

Moreover, fall is also a great time to see the Grand Canyon’s wildlife. With cooler temperatures and crowds gone, animals like elk, mule deer, chipmunks, bats, and plenty more reptiles start showing up on trails and even around some of the lodges and campsites at the park.

Entrance Fee: $35 per private vehicle, valid seven days

Seasonal Closures: The South Rim is open year-round, with reservations still recommended for lodging camping throughout the fall. North Rim closes on October 15.

• Grab our complete family guide to the Grand Canyon – including a printable checklist of all the highlights!

10. Glacier National Park

Location: Montana

Home to vast glaciers and over 1 million acres of striking scenery that bursts to life this time of the year with glorious hues of gold, visiting Glacier National Park during the fall is magical.

You’ll be treated to views of jagged peaks, mild meadows, and cascading waterfalls here. As if that weren’t enough, wildlife encounters are more common during the fall season when crowds are gone and temperatures are mild, so you’ll get to spot different species like bears, hawks, and golden eagles.

Summary of the Best US National Parks to Visit in the Fall

National Park	State	Closures	Entrance
Rocky Mountain National Park	Colorado	Open year-round Timed entry reservations need through to 20 Oct Winter road closures are likely	$30*
Shenandoah National Park	Virginia	Open year-round Many parts of the park are affected by road closures; dates vary over winter	$30
Acadia National Park	Maine	Open year-round, partial park closure from 1 Dec Timed Entry permits are needed until 27 Oct for Cadillac Summit Road	$30*
Arches National Park	Utah	Open year-round Timed Entry permits are required until 31 Oct	$30*
Great Smoky Mountains National Park	NC/TN	Open year-round, parking tags required Check for seasonal road closures	Free*
Cuyahoga Valley National Park	Ohio	Open year-round	Free
Mount Rainier National Park	Washington	Open year-round Many visitor centers and campgrounds close by mid-Oct, check road status	$30
Bryce Canyon National Park	Utah	Open year-round Many visitor centres and campgrounds close by mid-Oct, check road status	$35
Grand Canyon National Park	Arizona	South Rim stays open year-round North Rim roads closed from 1 Dec	$35
Glacier National Park	Montana	Open year-round A timed entry system runs until 8 Sep Many parts of the park are affected by road closures; dates vary over winter	$35*

More Tips Before Setting Off On Your Family National Park Road Trip

• Read these pro-tips for visiting national parks before tackling a US National Parks road trip

• For a fun addition to your National Parks road trip, grab yourself a National Parks Passport

• Got a 4th Grader in the family? Don’t forget you may be eligible for a FREE national parks pass as part of the Every Kid Outdoors campaign

• Be aware that road conditions can change dramatically in the fall, be sure to read up on our fall driving tips before you fit the road in the US September – November.

• Make sure you download our printable family road trip checklist, so you never forget an important item again