11 Top Places To Visit In Wyoming This Fall
Fall is one of the best times to visit Wyoming. The state becomes a vibrant tapestry of natural beauty, where towering mountain ranges, serene lakes, and historic parks transform with autumn’s golden hues. From the iconic peaks of Grand Teton National Park to the rugged allure of the Bighorn Mountains, each destination offers unique fall experiences for hikers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Whether soaking in the scenic views at Yellowstone, exploring autumn festivals in Jackson Hole, or enjoying tranquil waters at Fremont Lake, Wyoming’s autumn landscapes invite visitors to immerse themselves in unforgettable seasonal adventures across the state.
Grand Teton National Park
Fall in Grand Teton National Park is an unforgettable experience as vibrant colors sweep through the valley and paint the slopes of the Teton Range. Aspens and cottonwoods along the Snake River and Jenny Lake create stunning golden and orange reflections, providing ample photo opportunities at classic viewpoints like the Snake River Overlook. Hiking trails, including the popular Jenny Lake Loop, allow visitors to immerse themselves in the autumn landscape. At the same time, numerous pullouts along Teton Park Road showcase the brilliant foliage set against the rugged Tetons. In addition to breathtaking views, visitors may encounter elk, moose, and even bears preparing for winter. Mid-September to early October is the peak season for fall foliage here, with the colors reaching their height just as the wildlife activity peaks, adding a unique charm to the park’s rugged beauty and serene landscapes.
Jackson Hole
Jackson Hole is a prime destination for fall colors and seasonal activities, set against the scenic beauty of the Teton Range. The town itself celebrates autumn with the Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival, where art shows, live music, and culinary events draw visitors each September. For those seeking nature, the Aerial Tram takes guests up to Rendezvous Mountain, where sweeping views reveal autumn’s vibrant palette across the valley and surrounding mountains. The Snake River and nearby trails, such as Cache Creek, offer outdoor enthusiasts a close-up experience of the fall landscape, with golden trees lining the waterways. Jackson Hole combines artistic charm, outdoor exploration, and a lively fall atmosphere, making it a perfect autumn getaway.
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park offers a unique fall experience, blending geothermal marvels with autumn colors. As the season progresses, Lamar Valley’s golden grasslands and aspen stands turn vibrant shades of yellow and orange, providing a stunning contrast to the surrounding mountains and thermal features. Scenic drives along the Grand Loop Road and Yellowstone River reveal breathtaking fall views, especially near the Lower Falls and Artist Point. October is an ideal time for wildlife viewing as elk, bison, and deer become more active and visible, preparing for winter. Trails such as the Fairy Falls Trail offer access to scenic spots around Grand Prismatic Spring, where autumn colors accentuate the area’s natural beauty. Fewer crowds and mild weather make fall a peaceful and ideal time to experience the park’s rich colors and geothermal wonders up close. Moreover, with over 2.2 million acres of wilderness to explore, visitors can spend multiple days in this massive national park.
Snowy Range Scenic Byway
The Snowy Range Scenic Byway, cutting through the Medicine Bow Mountains, is one of Wyoming’s most scenic fall drives, offering sweeping views of alpine lakes, craggy peaks, and dense forests painted in autumn colors. Located near Laramie, the byway reaches elevations over 10,000 feet, providing expansive views over golden aspens and willow-dotted meadows below. Along the way, pullouts and trailheads invite visitors to take short hikes, with Lake Marie and Mirror Lake offering especially scenic reflections of the vibrant fall landscape. For those interested in photography, the byway’s high elevation offers an ideal vantage point to capture Wyoming’s fall foliage against the dramatic mountain backdrop. Late September to early October is peak season when crisp mountain air and vibrant colors make this drive a fall favorite among visitors and locals alike.
Bighorn Mountains
The Bighorn Mountains in north-central Wyoming transform into a fall wonderland, offering picturesque views and diverse outdoor experiences. The Cloud Peak Scenic Byway winds through the range, revealing forests of birch that turn brilliant shades of yellow and red each autumn. Granite Pass, a high point along the byway at 9,000 feet, provides an expansive view of the forested slopes blanketed in fall colors. For those who enjoy hiking, the Circle Park Trail offers a moderate route through meadows and aspen groves, leading to breathtaking views of Cloud Peak and surrounding landscapes. The Bighorns are also known for their pristine fishing streams, which are incredibly peaceful during the fall. With fewer visitors in the area, autumn here provides a quiet escape filled with Wyoming’s stunning natural beauty.
Shoshone National Forest
Shoshone National Forest, America’s first national forest, is a premier fall destination showcasing Wyoming’s diverse ecosystems. The Chief Joseph Scenic Byway, named after the legendary Nez Perce leader, winds through dense forests of aspens, pines, and rugged canyons. Early to mid-October is ideal for fall colors, with golden and orange hues standing out against the dark evergreens and granite cliffs. For adventure enthusiasts, the park’s 2.4 million-acre area is home to plenty of steep mountains ideal for skiing, snowmobiling, hiking, and backpacking. Those willing to brave the wilderness can head out to remote areas such as the Blackwater Natural Bridge and spend the night camping at one of 30 campgrounds in the forest. Wildlife enthusiasts will also find this time ideal for spotting deer, elk, and moose as they roam the vibrant woodlands. The byway’s dramatic landscapes and vibrant foliage make Shoshone National Forest a perfect spot for fall adventure and photography.
Devil’s Tower National Monument
Wyoming’s iconic Devil’s Tower National Monument becomes even more captivating in fall, as autumn colors transform the surrounding prairie and woodland areas. Trails like the Tower Trail encircle the base of this striking rock formation, offering stunning views of golden cottonwoods and oak trees set against the dramatic tower. Climbers looking for a vertical route can opt for the Durrance Route, which is a steep free ascent along the monument.
Photographers especially appreciate sunrise and sunset, when soft lighting highlights the warm hues of the trees and the rugged beauty of Devil’s Tower. Late September through October is ideal for visiting, as the cooler weather, vibrant foliage, and fewer crowds make it a peaceful yet inspiring destination for fall visitors and outdoor enthusiasts. In nearby towns like Hulett or Sundance, visitors can find local farms or pumpkin patches with autumn events such as hayrides, corn mazes, and pumpkin picking.
Wind River Range
The Wind River Range is an awe-inspiring destination, especially for hikers and photographers seeking rugged landscapes framed by fall colors. Backpackers have plenty of trailhead options, from the Big Sandy Trailhead at 9,080 feet to the Half Moon Lake at 7,600 feet. Moreover, the Cirque of the Towers trail is famous for its dramatic granite peaks and alpine scenery, with golden aspens and willows adding vibrant contrast in early autumn. Remote lakes like Island Lake reflect the surrounding mountains and trees, creating picturesque views that draw outdoor enthusiasts from around the world. While exploring, visitors can enjoy fishing, rock climbing, or simply taking in the crisp fall air and peaceful beauty of this remote area.
Fremont Lake
Fremont Lake, nestled near Pinedale, is an idyllic fall retreat surrounded by vibrant trees. As Wyoming’s second-largest lake, it offers ample opportunities for water activities like kayaking or canoeing, where paddlers can glide over waters reflecting the colorful shoreline. The Fremont Lake Overlook provides stunning panoramic views, showcasing the lake against a backdrop of rugged mountains and golden foliage. For those interested in hiking, nearby trails offer a variety of scenic overlooks and quiet spots for photography. The nearby town of Pinedale also hosts the Pinedale Half Marathon & 10K in early fall, as well as fall-themed markets full of seasonal produce, handmade crafts, and locally made goods, perfect for those seeking an authentic Wyoming autumn experience.
Medicine Bow National Forest
An alternative to the Snowy Range Scenic Byway, which is also near Laramie and the Medicine Bow Mountains, is Medicine Bow National Forest. It is a must-visit fall destination, especially for travelers seeking tranquil trails and stunning autumn colors. The forest transforms with bright red, orange, and yellow shades, especially around the Vedauwoo Recreation Area, known for its striking rock formations and lush aspen groves. Visitors can explore popular trails like the Turtle Rock Loop, which winds through the unique rocky landscape and provides excellent views of the autumn foliage. Other notable attractions in this 2.2 million acre forest include the Encampment River, Huston Park, and Savage Run, offering enthusiasts plenty of lovely sights. Late September to early October is ideal for capturing the beauty of the forest, with a peaceful atmosphere that enhances the natural wonder of this Wyoming gem.
Hot Springs State Park
Thermopolis’s Hot Springs State Park is a unique fall destination combining natural hot springs and vibrant autumn colors. The park’s terraces and pools are framed by trees that turn golden and red in early October, creating a striking contrast against the blue-green mineral water. It houses the Bathhouse Row, a National Historic Landmark from the 19th century home to 47 natural hot springs. Visitors can relax in the free public bathhouse or explore the iconic park’s scenic trails, which pass by historical sites and areas frequented by the park’s resident bison herd. Furthermore, one can head into town for eateries like One Eyed Buffalo Brewing Company, Black Bear Cafe, and P6 Station. Hot Springs State Park offers a warm, relaxing way to stay cozy amidst the crisp fall air.
Conclusion
From the soaring peaks of the Tetons to the tranquil waters of Fremont Lake, Wyoming offers a rich tapestry of autumn beauty and outdoor experiences. Each destination provides unique opportunities to witness the vibrant colors of fall, along with seasonal activities and scenic views that are perfect for families, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This fall, explore Wyoming’s breathtaking landscapes and create unforgettable memories in one of the state’s most picturesque seasons.
