Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Grand Teton National Park is beautiful at any time of year, but autumn is especially beautiful for a variety of reasons. Mother Nature dips her brush in a bursting palette of vibrant reds, burnt oranges, and neon yellows from early September to mid-October to offer a spectacular background for enjoying its beautiful animals, untamed recreation, and far fewer visitors. Historically, this spectacular color shift occurs about the third week of September and lasts until early October, but it's important to note that temperature, sunshine, and rainfall all have a role in the development of coloring.

When leaves change color is determined by local meteorological factors such as rainfall levels and nighttime temperatures, so check the Grand Teton National Park Fall foliage reports periodically before heading out. Hike Swift Creek to see the Tetons' fall color carpet on foot, then reward tired feet with a dip in the hot waters of Granite Hot Springs. Alternatively, travel to the south side of Jenny Lake, one of the world's most beautiful lakes, and join an easy-to-moderate ranger-led morning trek to Moose Ponds, followed by a meandering canoe ride with your camera in hand. There are eight lodging options located within the Grand Teton National Park grounds, Jenny Lake Lodge and Jackson Lake Lodge offer all the amenities and all the views, but be aware that many are seasonal.