The Best National Parks to Visit this Fall

(Without the crowds!)

Serenity. Solitude. Nature. Choosing a quieter destination isn’t just about escaping the noise. It also allows you to deepen your connection to nature without the packed trails and crowded viewpoints. And that’s exactly what you’ll experience at the best national parks to visit this fall—away from the crowds.

Are you ready to enjoy the peace and beauty of autumn? Visit one of these off-the-beaten-path parks for a crowd-free adventure.

• Acadia National Park, ME

  Fan-favorite Acadia gets busy during leaf-peeping season. But once peak foliage has passed, you’ll have this gorgeous park to yourself!

  Acadia offers the quintessential New England fall experience: vibrant foliage, coastal views, and a quiet, reflective atmosphere.

  The cooler temperatures make late fall the ideal time of year for hiking popular trails such as Jordan Pond. Or get an early—and we mean early—start and make the morning trek to Cadillac Mountain. As the highest point on the East Coast, it’s also the first spot to sunrise. It may be early, but the breathtaking panoramic views and golden light are worth it, you guys!

  Best National Park for: early birds!

• Congaree National Park, SC

  Not so into the brisk weather? You’re in luck! One of the best national parks to visit this fall is in the heart of South Carolina.

  This little-known gem is perfect if you want to skip the traditional foliage spots (looking at you, Stowe!). For a close-up view of the forest, explore the elevated boardwalk trails that wind through the lush wetlands. The towering trees of the Congaree Forest form a natural canopy that bursts into orange and red in the fall.

  Or go for an immersive experience, kayaking or canoeing along the tranquil Cedar Creek. Glide past trees dripping Spanish moss, interrupted only by the occasional bird singing or fish splashing.

  Best National Park for: a true wilderness experience

• Great Basin National Park, NV

  Did you think Nevada was only good for gambling or skiing? Think again! It’s also home to one of the best national parks to visit this fall!

  The night sky here has nothing to do with the neon lights of the Vegas Strip. Great Basin is a designated International Dark Sky Park, with some of the clearest night skies in the U.S. When summer’s crowds fade away, you can enjoy amazing, unobstructed views of constellations, planets, and maybe even the Milky Way!

  Another interesting Great Basin feature is the Lehman Caves. Formed over millions of years, the caves are filled with intricate formations such as stalactites, stalagmites, and “cave shields.”

  Best National Park for: fascinating views, on land and in the sky

• Saguaro National Park, AZ

  As summer’s scorching temperatures finally subside, Saguaro is a fantastic choice for a national park getaway.

  The desert landscape might not offer fall foliage, but we promise—you guys won’t even miss it! Enormous multi-armed saguaro cacti dominate the unique landscape, soaring to over 40 feet. The park contains an extensive trail system; it’s a joy to hike in the cooler fall weather. View Overlook Trail is especially popular, with iconic saguaros framing the sunset in a postcard-perfect view.

  The desert comes alive in the fall. Late-blooming wildflowers burst into colors and the wildlife becomes more active without the oppressive summer heat. Keep your eyes open for desert tortoises, roadrunners, and even the occasional coyote!

  Best National Park for: an unforgettable desert destination

• Voyageurs National Park, MN

  With the word “voyage” in its name, it has to be trip-worthy, right?! Well, Voyageurs National Park (named after the French-Canadian fur traders), certainly lives up to its name!

  Located near the Canadian border, the park is known for its water-based access: almost 40% of the park is water. In fact, many areas are best explored by boat or kayak. This unique setup is especially stunning during leaf season, when the brilliant colors are mirrored in the surrounding lakes.
  The park’s secluded location also means less light pollution, so stargazing is exceptional. If the night’s clear enough, you might even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights!
  Best National Park for: for an aquatic autumn adventure

Is an outdoor escape calling your name? These are the 5 best national parks to visit this fall for everything from leaf-peeping to star-gazing.

And to make your national park getaway smooth and simple, ship your outdoor gear to your hotel or Airbnb with LugLess. No need to haul suitcases through the airport or wait at baggage claim. So you can hop right off your flight and begin your adventure, worry-free!