Fall Season

Illustration of a bison made of tree leaves with text reading "Find Your Park"

NPS / Matt Turner

Change is in the air as nature and people alike get ready for the winter months. In some parts of the country, the cool, brisk air of autumn often brings a flash of vibrant colors to the landscape before turning shades of brown. As the temperatures begin to drop, many animals begin a migratory journey, gather extra food, or put on extra layers. The school year begins as the summer months come to an end. Communities celebrate fall festivities as the days begin to shorten, the harvest is collected, and homes are prepared for life during colder months.  

Fall is also a time to experience the great outdoors, enjoy the stunning scenery, and join in cultural festivities at national parks. Or stay connected with parks virtually through the season.

Focus on Safety

Poster of an old-fashioned car driving past fall foliage with text reading "Recreate Responsibly"

Join the #RecreateResponsibly Movement

Visiting a park? Model best practices to protect America's treasures while looking out for each other's health and safety.

Two campers with tents near the base of a glacier

Trip Planning

"Map" your trip preparation and activities before you go. Get planning and safety tips to make your trip a fun, safe adventure.

Mountain road lined with fall foliage and views of the valley

Eyes on the Road

Slow down to enjoy the spectacular views in national parks while also staying alert for potential road conditions and obstacles.

Kid roasting a marshmallow over a fire

Campfire Safety

Fall can be a great time to camp under the stars. Be familiar with best practices to have a fun, safe campfire experience.

Caribou buck standing in tall grass

Watching Wildlife

Animals may have seasonal changes in behavior. Find tips for smart, safe wildlife watching during the fall.

Seasonal Celebrations & Happenings

Folklorico dancers near mission ruins

Hispanic Heritage Month

Celebrate history, heritage, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans both past and present.

Road through a forest with fall colors

Leaf Peeping

The autumn months splash many national parks with a rich array of fall colors to enjoy during your visit.

Campers sitting in chairs around a campfire under the night sky

Telling Stories Around the Campfire

Gather folks ‘round the campfire—literal or figurative—to listen to stories and make your own from your park experiences.

Ranger in front of a webcam also displaying on two monitors

Back to School

Prepare for the new school year by finding lesson plans, educational activities, distance learning opportunities, and more.

Brown and white pony in golden grasses

Watching Wildlife

Fall can be a great time to spot wildlife in national parks. Learn how some animals change their routines.

Two bicyclist on a gravel road in the mountains

Biking and "E-Biking"

Electric bicycles (e-bikes) are now allowed in more national park locations, providing more opportunities for cyclists to enjoy fall.

Fall Trip Ideas

Need inspiration for specific trip ideas and things to do? Parks have suggestions for self-guided activities to enjoy the fall season.

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    Calendar of Events

    Find a park near you or explore in-park and virtual events hosted by parks across the country. Set the calendar to fall months to see what events are being hosted in national parks or online to join in fall festivities.

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    Want to volunteer? Volunteer events will soon display directly on the NPS Event Calendar. Until then, visit Volunteer.gov to find ways to volunteer!

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    Last updated: October 16, 2020