10 U.S National Parks to Visit in October (2024)
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About This Series
This post is part of a planned series of twelve articles about which National Parks are the best to visit in a particular month. Some parks will appear multiple times throughout the series while some may receive only one.
Throughout series, we’ll cover topics such as weather, crowd levels, and what makes each park special. It will be based on my own experiences in addition to extensive research.
October
October is a captivating month to explore the stunning National Parks across the United States. As the autumn season graces the landscapes with vibrant colors, these parks offer a magical experience for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Let's dive into the beauty of these ten National Parks to visit in October, including sunrise and sunset times, as well as crowd levels, so you can plan your unforgettable fall adventure.
1. Acadia National Park
State: Maine
Reason to Visit: Acadia National Park is a fall paradise with its rugged coastline, serene lakes, and majestic mountains dressed in a tapestry of red, orange, and golden hues. October provides a perfect opportunity to witness the park's transformation into an autumn wonderland.
Sunrise & Sunset Times: In October, sunrise in Acadia is around 6:40 AM, and sunset occurs at approximately 5:45 PM.
Crowd Levels: While Acadia can be popular during October weekends, weekdays offer a more peaceful experience as the crowds diminish.
Top Recommendations: Hike the Precipice Trail.
How Many Days Needed: You should plan for at least three days.
2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
State: Tennessee
Reason to Visit: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is renowned for its diverse foliage, and in October, it becomes a stunning canvas of fall colors. With its abundance of hiking trails and scenic drives, the park offers an unforgettable leaf-peeping experience.
Sunrise & Sunset Times: In October, the sunrise in the Great Smoky Mountains occurs around 7:30 AM, while the sunset is around 6:45 PM.
Crowd Levels: October is a peak time for fall foliage, so the park can get crowded during weekends. Consider visiting on weekdays to enjoy a quieter experience.
Top Recommendation: Hike the Chimney Tops Trail
How Many Days Needed: I would set aside at least two days.
3. Shenandoah National Park
State: Virginia
Reason to Visit: Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah National Park offers panoramic vistas of fall foliage. The Skyline Drive offers breathtaking overlooks, providing an immersive experience in nature's autumn splendor.
Sunrise & Sunset Times: In October, Shenandoah experiences sunrise around 7:15 AM, and the sun sets at approximately 6:30 PM.
Crowd Levels: Weekdays in October are generally less crowded, allowing visitors to savor the beauty of the park without the hustle and bustle of the weekends.
Top Recommendation: Hike to Rose River Falls.
How Many Days Needed: While you could see many of the highlights in one day, spend two days, if possible.
4. Zion National Park
State: Utah
Reason to Visit: In October, Zion National Park offers milder temperatures, making it an ideal time to explore its towering cliffs and narrow slot canyons. The park's golden fall foliage contrasts beautifully with the red rocks.
Sunrise & Sunset Times: In October, the sunrise in Zion is around 7:15 AM, and the sunset occurs at approximately 6:30 PM.
Crowd Levels: October brings a mix of moderate and low crowds, with weekdays being less crowded compared to weekends.
Top Recommendation: Hike Angel’s Landing or The Watchman Trail as a less crowded alternative.
How Many Days Needed: You can get away with two, but I recommend three to get the most out of your time at Zion.
5. Rocky Mountain National Park
State: Colorado
Reason to Visit: With its golden aspen groves and snow-dusted peaks, Rocky Mountain National Park in October is a sight to behold. The park's scenic drives and extensive network of hiking trails offer ample opportunities to enjoy the fall spectacle.
Sunrise & Sunset Times: In October, the sunrise in Rocky Mountain occurs around 7:00 AM, while the sunset is around 6:15 PM.
Crowd Levels: While weekends can get busy, weekdays in October offer a more tranquil experience to bask in the park's autumn beauty.
Top Recommendation: Hike to Sky Pond and Chasm Lake.
How Many Days Needed: I would plan for two to three days.
6. Grand Teton National Park
State: Wyoming
Reason to Visit: Grand Teton National Park is a captivating destination in October, with the majestic Teton Range adorned in fall colors. The park's serene lakes and abundant wildlife make it a photographer's paradise.
Sunrise & Sunset Times: In October, Grand Teton experiences sunrise around 7:15 AM, and the sun sets at approximately 6:30 PM.
Crowd Levels: October offers a mix of moderate and low crowds, making it an opportune time to enjoy the park's beauty without overwhelming crowds.
Top Recommendation: Spend a day at Jenny Lake and explore its many hiking trails.
How Many Days Needed: You can see the highlights in one, but I would spend at least two.
7. Glacier National Park
State: Montana
Reason to Visit: In October, Glacier National Park showcases a dazzling array of fall foliage and majestic glaciers. The park's pristine lakes and snow-capped peaks create an idyllic setting for exploration.
Sunrise & Sunset Times: In October, the sunrise in Glacier is around 7:30 AM, and the sunset occurs at approximately 6:15 PM.
Crowd Levels: October brings a decrease in crowds, offering visitors a quieter and more intimate experience with nature.
Top Recommendation: I have two; drive the Going-to-the-Sun road and hike the Highline Trail.
How Many Days Needed: You could get away with two but if you’re a hiker, I would spend a minimum of three to four.
8. Yosemite National Park
State: California
Reason to Visit: Yosemite National Park in October exudes tranquility as the summer crowds subside. The park's towering waterfalls and iconic granite cliffs are enhanced by the warm hues of autumn.
Sunrise & Sunset Times: In October, Yosemite experiences sunrise around 7:00 AM, while the sunset is around 6:15 PM.
Crowd Levels: October offers low to moderate crowds, making it an excellent time to explore the park's beauty without large crowds.
Top Recommendation: Hiking through Cook’s Meadow in the fall is a magical experience.
How Many Days Needed: The east portion of the park is still open in October (particularly in the first few weeks), so plan for at least two.
9. Arches National Park
State: Utah
Reason to Visit: October provides pleasant temperatures to explore the unique rock formations of Arches National Park. The park's red rocks contrasting with the fall foliage create a visual feast for visitors.
Sunrise & Sunset Times: In October, the sunrise in Arches occurs around 7:15 AM, and the sunset is around 6:30 PM.
Crowd Levels: October offers moderate crowds, but weekdays tend to be less crowded compared to weekends.
Top Recommendation: There are many unique arches that are easy to access. These include Delicate Arch, Double O Arch, Window’s Loop, Double Arch, and more!
How Many Days Needed: You could do one in a pinch, but allocate two if you can.
10. Denali National Park
State: Alaska
Reason to Visit: In October, Denali National Park welcomes the fall season with vibrant colors and opportunities to spot wildlife. The park's vast wilderness and the chance to witness the northern lights make it a unique fall destination.
The downside to October? It’s the “shoulder” season. Tours won’t be running, most restaurants will be closed, and there’s a real possibility of snow.
Sunrise & Sunset Times: In October, Denali experiences sunrise around 8:00 AM, while sunset is around 7:00 PM.
Crowd Levels: October is a quieter time in Denali, particularly during the week.
Top Recommendation: This is a great month to see the Northern Lights in action.
How Many Days Needed: Two, at minimum.
October is a magical time to visit National Parks as they transform into enchanting landscapes adorned with the colors of fall. From the rugged coastlines of Acadia to the snow-capped peaks of Rocky Mountain, these ten National Parks offer an array of breathtaking vistas and unforgettable experiences.
Embrace the beauty of nature, revel in the tranquility of the outdoors, and create cherished memories during your October adventure in these National Parks. Happy exploring!
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