Zion National Park - Utah

Located in southwestern Utah, Zion National Park is an awe-inspiring place to visit in the fall. The woodlands and forested areas brighten the park's deep canyons with fall foliage. Choose from guided tours, overnight camping (requires a permit), or breeze through the Canyon Overlook and Riverside Walk trails in under five miles. For intrepid hikers, head for Observation Point, a challenging route that offers breathtaking vistas as a reward for those who conquer it. The trek boasts its unique beauty from start to finish.

Great Smoky Mountains - Tennessee

The Smokies are known for their epic displays of fall foliage starting in September. Vigorous hikes during this time of year include Alum Cave Trail, an 11-mile out-and-back trek with jaw-dropping landmarks and colorful foliage. Climb Mount Cammerer's 11 miles of rugged, steep terrain where, along the 3,000-foot elevation gain, and you'll be treated to panoramic vistas overlooking oak, myrtle, birch, and maple trees showing off their vibrant hues of yellow, orange, and red.

Acadia National Park - Maine

Acadia National Park features dramatic coastal landscapes, rugged terrain, and the highest mountain on the Atlantic coast from New England to Florida. At 1,530 feet, Cadillac Mountain features hikes for all skill levels. The park's hardwood forests transform into a sea of crimson, coral, and gold hues in the fall. Popular hikes include Gorge Trail, a 4.8-mile challenging route featuring tons of granite steps lined with trees. The Southridge Trail is a 7-mile out and back, with the first third ascending through white pine and spruce before opening up to ocean views and surrounding tree-covered hills.

Pacific Crest Trail - Washington

Have you always wanted to hike the PCT? Get a sample of trail life on sections of the trail in Washington—one of the best places to hike for fall colors. During this time of year in the Pacific Northwest, you can trade your bug repellent for a puffy jacket and warm gloves. The stunning fall colors along the PCT in the Tatie Peak and Grasshopper Pass in the Washington section include alpine meadows and stands of golden larch.

Tatie Peak can be reached by an easy off-trail hike/scramble from the PCT near Hart's Pass. Fall-season hikers can also plan short trips around the Columbia River Gorge, which is usually snow-free year-round and the windsurfing capital of the world.

Store Before You Go

Are you looking to explore all these hikes at your own pace? During your downtime, entrust your gear to the experts who genuinely get your active lifestyle. StorQuest offers a network of facilities throughout the United States, with options ranging from convenient lockers to spacious personal units and even climate-controlled storage for your trusted equipment.