I've Visited 30 National Parks-This Is My Favorite to Visit During the Fall for Stunning Foliage Views and Fewer Crowds

"Leaf-peeping draws travelers to woodlands across New England, but autumn gets equally splendid out west-especially in Grand Teton, my favorite national park to visit in the fall. This 484-square-mile treat of topography is known for many things: sky-high climbs, scenic hikes, pristine night skies, and eye-popping wildlife. What I didn't expect during my late September visit, though, was to see all of that plus a sea of bright gold aspens."

"It's hard to get a bad view in Grand Teton, with the Teton Range's spiky gneiss adding drama at every turn. Most of the trails remain open into autumn, although accessibility is largely based on the weather. During my trip, I hiked the show-stopping 7.1-mile Jenny Lake loop to see the yellow leaves and tall peaks reflecting off the water. Other unbeatable autumn jaunts include the two-mile Phelps Lake Overlook route and the five-mile Flagg Canyon trail."

Grand Teton National Park spans 484 square miles of dramatic peaks, lakes, and valleys, and autumn brings vivid gold aspens and fewer crowds. Most trails remain open into fall depending on weather, with recommended hikes including the 7.1-mile Jenny Lake loop, the two-mile Phelps Lake Overlook, and the five-mile Flagg Canyon trail. Scenic drives such as Teton Park Road and Jenny Lake Scenic Drive stay open until November weather permitting, offering leaf viewing and wildlife watching. River floats on the Snake River provide views of the Cathedral Group and opportunities to spot bears and deer.

Read at Travel + Leisure