Leaf Peeping

Colorful trees reflected in lake with mountains in background — NPS / Ginny Reams

Fall is a great time to get out and enjoy spectacular views of changing leaves in national parks. Forests, woods, shrublands, and grasslands turn a magnificent array of colors September through December each year depending on the climate and conditions. Whether you “leaf peeping” in a car or the open air, remember to plan ahead for a fun, safe trip.

Share your favorite leaf-peeping images from national parks on social media using #FallColors. Don’t forget to tag a park for a shout out!

Bridge over a creek in woods turned fall colors

Locate a park with forests, woods, or shrublands to watch the leaves change colors in autumn.

A mountain and reddish grasslands also reflected in a lake

Fall is a good time to experience the great outdoors, enjoy the stunning scenery, and join in cultural festivities at national parks.

Keep Safety in Sight

Leaf Peeping Safety Tips Infographic, detailed alt text on the webpage — NPS / Derrick Lam & Lilia Fromm

Alternative Text for the Infographic

The image is an infographic to encourage safe practices while viewing fall colors in national parks. The text reads "Viewing Fall Colors: Be Aware of Your Surroundings. Watch Your Step: keep your distance from drop offs; find a safe place to take photos; and wait your turn in crowded areas. Watch the Road: keep your eyes on the road; be alert for wildlife; and pull over at a safe place to take in the view."

The illustration includes a visitor wearing a face mask and camera standing at an overlook viewing fall colors on plants and mountains in the distance. A car on a roadway has stopped for two deer crossing the road.

Leaf peeping is a very popular recreational activity in national parks during the autumn months. When viewing fall colors, remember to always be aware of your surroundings with these safety tips as you recreate responsibly.

Watch Your Step: Keep your distance from drop offs, find a safe place to take photos, and wait your turn in crowded areas.
Watch the Road: Keep your eyes on the road, be alert for wildlife, and pull over at a safe place to take in the view.

Virtual Leaf Peeping

Featured Webcams

There are many webcams in national parks across the country that showcase changes in fall colors. (Please remember that webcams may not always display visible images at times—nighttime, maintenance, nature happening...)