Rocky Mountain National Park Archives

Manchester, Vermont

Best time to visit: mid September – mid October

Vermont is a fall foliage must-see thanks to their state tree, the sugar maple. Manchester, located near the border of New York and Massachusetts, is surrounded by brilliant shades of red and orange that stretch as far as the eye can see. Don’t forget a camera as you explore Hildene-The Lincoln Family Home, teach your kids how to pick apples at Mad Tom Orchard, or take a ride up the Skyline Drive for breathtaking views of three states. Manchester’s quaint, family-friendly New England atmosphere will give you plenty of opportunities for good food, quality time, and adventure.

Great Smoky Mountains, North Carolina / Tennessee

Photo credit: Romantic Asheville

Best time to visit: mid October – early November

The Great Smoky Mountains is home to over 100 native species of trees, making it one of the most colorful and popular fall destinations. Scarlet oaks, hickories, and sweetgum trees create a distinct variation of purples, reds, and golds that is sure to make your family photos the envy of your PTA group. There’s no lodging allowed inside the park, but surrounding towns like Asheville and Gatlinburg cater to the seasonal crowds. For a truly once in a lifetime view, trek up to the top of Gatlinburg’s 407 ft Space Needle for a 360 degree view of the mountain range.

Lake Superior, Minnesota

Photo Credit: North Shore Scenic Railroad Archives

Best time to visit: late September – early October

Fall is a special time for Lake Superior, with the distinct maple, aspen, and birch trees coming together to form a charming red-yellow rainbow. For the best view, hike inland along the lake, take the North Shore Scenic Drive towards Canada, or relax on the North Shore Scenic Railroad (they even have a Music and Pizza Train to keep younger passengers entertained). After a weekend of fishing or tubing along the lake, stop by the Duluth Children’s Museum for an interactive family-friendly break from the outdoors.

Garner State Park, Texas

Photo credit: Bobby Gian

Best time to visit: October

With over 95 state parks, there is steep competition for fall foliage in the Lone Star State, but Garner State Park takes the cake. The cool Frio River highlights the yellows and oranges of the oak, mesquite, and cypress trees and the reflection on the water makes for a picturesque scene. With over 1,700 acres of protected land and 11 miles of hikeable trails, Garner State Park has something for every kind of explorer. After a long day out on the water, unwind with late night mini-golf, specialty gelato, or an all-ages dance to celebrate the beginning of fall.

Grand Lake, Colorado

Photo credit: Carol Silk, Historic Rapids Lodge and Restaurant, Grand Lake, Colorado

Best time to visit: September

Grand Lake, Colorado’s largest and deepest natural lake, is surrounded by the distinct aspens of the Rocky Mountain National Park. The plentiful forests typically transition through golden-yellow shades, but if you’re lucky you can catch a rare red aspen dotted amongst the forest. When the trees change, the wildlife come out to play, and Grand Lake is a prime spot to see the majestic elk rut. Visit during the third week of September to take part in the 7th annual Constitution Week, a five-day food and fun festival to celebrate fall.

Bishop Creek Canyon, California

Photo credit: Doug Golupski

Best time to visit: late September – early October

Bishop Creek Canyon, famous for their abundant cottonwood and aspen trees, is one of the best places on the West Coast to witness mother nature’s changing hues. Golden and red shades set the valleys ablaze and the mild California climate helps you maximize your time outdoors. Enjoy a horseback ride through the trails, take a dip in one of the many rivers or streams, or hike through the Eastern Sierras for an adventure packed family-friendly weekend. For some live entertainment at the peak of fall colors check out the Millpond Music Festival or Annual Pow Wow.

Natural landmarks bring beauty, fun and wonder to any family vacation. Go out there and enjoy these awe-inspiring national parks and create unforgettable memories for your whole family.

Yellowstone National Park (WY)

Grand Prismatic Spring and thermophiles, by Curtis Akin (August 2013)

Yellowstone National Park became the world’s first National Park for a reason. At over two million acres, the park houses more than four hundred species of animals, one thousand species of plants, and ten thousand thermal features. With awe-inspiring waterfalls and over three hundred geysers, you and your family will be amazed at this incredible wonder in America. Stay for as long as you want in one of the twelve campgrounds scattered throughout the park, each in close proximity to many of Yellowstone’s greatest marvels. Take your family on a tour with one of many ranger-led programs only available during winter and summer, and give your children the learning experience of a lifetime. They can even participate in the junior ranger wildlife Olympics, a program where they can test their abilities and compare them to many of the animals found in the park. Your entire family will be amazed from the second you arrive at Yellowstone National Park to the time you leave.

Websites: https://www.yellowstonepark.com

https://www.nps.gov/yell/index.htm

Yosemite National Park (Yosemite, CA)

Courtesy of NPS

If breathtaking sequoias and massive waterfalls sound like your ideal vacation, then Yosemite National Park is the perfect getaway for your family. Whether you’re a group of experienced hikers or a group of sightseers, Yosemite offers a magical experience for everyone. Your family can enjoy water rafting, guided walking and tram tours, scenic hikes, horseback riding, and so much more. You can lodge in the famous Majestic Yosemite Hotel or rough it out at one of the many campsites spread throughout the park. Adventure awaits at every corner of Yosemite National Park, so get ready to have an exceptional experience like no other.

Websites: https://www.travelyosemite.com

https://www.nps.gov/yose/index.htm

Haleakalā National Park (HI)

Courtesy NPS

Your family will never be more motivated to wake up before the sunrise than they will when heading out to Haleakalā National Park. At 10,023 feet above sea level, the breathtaking views your family will experience will create memories they’ll never forget. If you’re having a relaxing vacation on Hawaii’s island Maui, Haleakalā is only a drive away. You will see some of the most unique ecosystems in the world, as the grounds are filled with rare biotic species and scenic pools. If visiting during the summer, the unpredictable and chilly weather will surely come as a bit of a shock, but it will definitely be a nice way to cool down from the Maui heat. As long as you come prepared with layered clothing, you and your family will have an amazing experience at Haleakalā National park.

Website: https://www.nps.gov/hale/index.htm

Grand Canyon National Park (AZ)

Grand Canyon National Park: Cedar Ridge Ranger-led Hike 9986

Whether you want to be in the Grand Canyon for one day or seven, this National Park will truly take your breath away. Your family can enjoy a variety of tours — ranging from a bus and a jeep to a helicopter and airplane. For older kids, incredible hikes all around Grand Canyon National Park are perfect ways for them to find adventure. Also, there are plenty of things to do at the top and bottom of the Grand Canyon. The Canyon offers river rafting, camping, mule rides, and so much more. With sights that will blow your mind and activities for any adventure seeker, the Grand Canyon is one of the world’s wonders you don’t want to miss out on.

Websites: https://grandcanyon.com

https://www.nps.gov/grca/index.htm

Acadia National Park (ME)

Courtesy of NPS

For both thrill seekers and leisure lovers, Acadia National Park is a true American treasure that your family will love. Just driving along the famous 27-mile long Park Loop Road is a scenic view sure to astonish people from ages 1 to 100. Your family can also enjoy a daring hike along Precipice Trail or a picturesque bike ride along the carriage roads. Stop for lunch at Jordan Pond House and experience a heavenly taste of their famous popovers. With the sheer amount of activities to do, you’ll want to stay in one of the numerous resorts, lodges, campgrounds, or hotels in the area. Spending your trip relaxing on Sand Beach or taking in the mountainous views will create an unforgettable trip for the entire family.

Websites: https://acadiamagic.com

https://www.nps.gov/acad/index.htm

Rocky Mountain National Park (CO)

Courtesy of NPS

A family trip to the Rocky Mountains is so much more than a vacation. With incredible mountain views, interactive museum exhibits, lake activities, abundant wildlife, cowboy sing-alongs, horseback riding, and more, the entire family will be immersed in all the landmark has to offer. Festivals such as the Elk Fest, Autumn Gold Fest, and the Longs Peak Scottish and Irish Festival all occur in September, so early autumn is a terrific time to explore the Rocky Mountains and its town. You will always be surrounded by the park’s natural beauty while relaxing at hotels or going on wild adventures. Any family trip to the Rocky Mountains brings numerous opportunities to learn about nature and to simply appreciate all the wonders the park has to offer.

Websites: https://rockymountainnationalpark.com

https://www.nps.gov/romo/index.htm