September is one of the best months to visit national parks. The weather is still warm, summer crowds start to thin out, and fall colors begin to appear in some areas. Here are the best national parks to visit in September.
10 Best National Parks to Visit in September
1. Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)
- Why September? Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and stunning fall foliage.
- Activities Hiking, wildlife watching, kayaking, and photography.
- Weather 30-70°F, crisp mornings and pleasant afternoons.
2. Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho)
- Why September? Elk mating season (rut), active wildlife, and fewer tourists.
- Activities Geyser watching, wildlife spotting (bears, bison, wolves), and hiking.
- Weather 30-70°F, chilly nights and mild days.
3. Glacier National Park (Montana)
- Why September? Cooler weather, fewer crowds, and golden larch trees later in the month.
- Activities Hiking, scenic drives on Going-to-the-Sun Road, and wildlife spotting.
- Weather 30-70°F, occasional early snowfall at higher elevations.
4. Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)
- Why September? Prime time for fall foliage, especially golden aspen trees.
- Activities Hiking, scenic drives, and elk watching during the rut.
- Weather 30-70°F, with possible early snow at higher elevations.
5. Acadia National Park (Maine)
- Why September? Warm days, cool nights, and fewer summer crowds.
- Activities Hiking, biking, scenic drives, and sunrise at Cadillac Mountain.
- Weather 40-70°F, comfortable temperatures.
6. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee & North Carolina)
- Why September? Early fall foliage in higher elevations and comfortable temperatures.
- Activities Hiking, wildlife watching, and scenic drives.
- Weather 50-80°F, humid but cooling down.
7. Zion National Park (Utah)
- Why September? Cooler weather makes hiking more enjoyable, and the Virgin River is perfect for The Narrows hike.
- Activities Hiking, canyoneering, and scenic drives.
- Weather 50-90°F, warm but not scorching.
8. Yosemite National Park (California)
- Why September? Fewer crowds, pleasant temperatures, and waterfalls still flowing.
- Activities Hiking, rock climbing, and exploring Yosemite Valley.
- Weather 50-80°F, chilly mornings.
9. Olympic National Park (Washington)
- Why September? Less rain, vibrant fall colors, and mild temperatures.
- Activities Hiking, tidepooling, and exploring the Hoh Rainforest.
- Weather 40-70°F, with a mix of sun and clouds.
10. Arches National Park (Utah)
Why September? Cooler temperatures and incredible red rock scenery.
Activities Hiking, photography, and stargazing.
Weather 50-85°F, comfortable for desert adventures.
Honorable Mentions
Denali National Park in Alaska offers a chance to see the Northern Lights in late September.
Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks in California have pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
Shenandoah National Park in Virginia begins to show early fall foliage.