November's Calling: 5 State Parks Where Autumn's Still In Full Swing

November’s Calling: 5 State Parks Where Autumn’s Still in Full Swing

November. The air’s crisp, the leaves are falling, and the crowds are thinning out. It’s the perfect time to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. And what better place to do that than a state park?

But with so many stunning parks across the country, how do you choose? Well, let’s be honest, you can’t go wrong. But if you’re looking for a truly magical November experience, these five parks will have you saying "Wow!" in no time.

Related Articles: November’s Calling: 5 State Parks Where Autumn’s Still in Full Swing

1. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia: Where Fall Colors Reign Supreme

Imagine this: You’re driving along Skyline Drive, the wind whipping through your hair, and the mountainsides are ablaze with fiery hues of orange, red, and gold. That’s Shenandoah National Park in November. This park is a haven for leaf peepers, with over 200,000 acres of stunning scenery.

What to do:

Hike the Appalachian Trail: This iconic trail runs through Shenandoah, offering breathtaking views and challenging climbs. Even if you’re not a seasoned hiker, there are plenty of shorter trails to explore, like the Stony Man Trail or the Dark Hollow Falls Trail.
Go for a scenic drive: Skyline Drive is a must-do, offering panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, like deer, black bears, and even the occasional bald eagle.
Explore the park’s history: Shenandoah is rich in history, with remnants of the Civil War and the Civilian Conservation Corps still visible today. Visit the Big Meadows Lodge or the Dickey Ridge Visitor Center to learn more.
Stay overnight: There are several campgrounds and lodges within the park, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Shenandoah.

November's Calling: 5 State Parks Where Autumn's Still in Full Swing

Pro tip: The best time to catch the peak fall colors in Shenandoah is typically mid to late October. But don’t worry, even in November, the park is still a sight to behold.

2. Acadia National Park, Maine: Rugged Coastline Meets Autumn Charm

Think crashing waves, rugged cliffs, and the scent of salt air – that’s Acadia National Park. But in November, this coastal gem gets a whole new layer of charm. The leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a breathtaking contrast against the deep blue ocean.

What to do:

Hike the trails: Acadia boasts over 150 miles of trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs. Hike to the top of Cadillac Mountain for stunning views of the sunrise (if you’re up early!), or explore the rocky coastline along the Ocean Path.
Go for a scenic drive: The Park Loop Road winds its way through Acadia, offering glimpses of the park’s diverse landscapes. Don’t miss the Thunder Hole, a natural sea cave that roars with the power of the waves.
Take a boat tour: Explore the coastline from a different perspective with a boat tour. You’ll see seals, puffins, and even whales (in season).
Visit the Abbe Museum: Learn about the history of the Wabanaki people, the original inhabitants of Maine, at the Abbe Museum in Bar Harbor.

November's Calling: 5 State Parks Where Autumn's Still in Full Swing

Pro tip: November in Acadia can be chilly, so dress in layers. And be sure to check the weather forecast before you go, as the park can get a lot of rain this time of year.

3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee: A Smoky Escape

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known for its stunning scenery, but in November, it’s even more captivating. The leaves turn a kaleidoscope of colors, creating a breathtaking tapestry across the mountains. And the crisp air, filled with the smell of pine and damp earth, is truly invigorating.

What to do:

Hike the trails: With over 800 miles of trails, you’ll find plenty of options for hiking in the Smokies. The Chimney Tops Trail offers incredible views, while the Grotto Falls Trail leads to a cascading waterfall.
Go for a scenic drive: The Newfound Gap Road is a must-do, offering breathtaking views of the mountains. Stop at Cades Cove for wildlife viewing, or visit the Sugarlands Visitor Center for information about the park.
Explore the park’s history: The Smokies are rich in history, with evidence of Native American settlements and logging camps. Visit the Oconaluftee Indian Village or the Mingus Mill to learn more.
Enjoy the fall festivals: November in the Smokies is a time for festivals, with events like the Gatlinburg Fall Festival and the Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival.

Pro tip: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the country, so expect crowds, especially on weekends.

4. Yosemite National Park, California: A Majestic Mountain Escape

Yosemite National Park is a year-round destination, but in November, it takes on a whole new level of majesty. The crowds have thinned out, the air is crisp, and the iconic granite cliffs are framed by a backdrop of fiery fall colors.

What to do:

Hike the trails: Yosemite is home to some of the most iconic hiking trails in the world, including the Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and the Half Dome Trail.
Visit the Yosemite Valley: The Yosemite Valley is a must-see, with its towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and giant sequoia trees.
Go for a scenic drive: The Tioga Pass Road, which is typically closed in the winter, is open in November, offering breathtaking views of the High Sierra.
Explore the park’s history: Yosemite is rich in history, with evidence of Native American settlements dating back thousands of years. Visit the Ahwahnee Hotel or the Yosemite Museum to learn more.

Pro tip: November is a great time to visit Yosemite, as the crowds are smaller and the weather is still mild. But be sure to check the weather forecast, as snow is possible in the higher elevations.

5. Glacier National Park, Montana: A Wilderness Wonderland

Glacier National Park is a breathtaking wilderness wonderland, with towering mountains, pristine lakes, and a wealth of wildlife. In November, the park takes on a mystical quality, with the snow-capped peaks reflecting in the still waters of the lakes.

What to do:

Hike the trails: Glacier boasts over 700 miles of trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs. Hike to the top of Grinnell Glacier for stunning views, or explore the forests along the Trail of the Cedars.
Go for a scenic drive: The Going-to-the-Sun Road is a must-do, offering breathtaking views of the park’s diverse landscapes. Stop at Lake McDonald for a boat tour, or visit the Apgar Village for a taste of the park’s history.
Explore the park’s wildlife: Glacier is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, mountain goats, and elk. Keep your eyes peeled for these majestic creatures.
Visit the park’s museums: The Glacier National Park Museum in Apgar Village and the St. Mary Visitor Center offer insight into the park’s history and natural wonders.

Pro tip: Glacier National Park is typically closed in the winter, but some roads and trails may be accessible in November. Be sure to check the park’s website for the latest conditions.

November’s Magic: A Time to Reflect and Recharge

November in a state park is a time to slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and reconnect with nature. Whether you’re hiking through fiery forests, driving along scenic roads, or simply enjoying the peace and quiet, a November state park visit is a chance to recharge your batteries and create memories that will last a lifetime.

FAQ:

Q: Are state parks open in November?

A: Most state parks remain open year-round, though some may have limited services or facilities during the off-season. It’s always best to check the park’s website for the latest information.

Q: What should I pack for a November state park visit?

A: Pack layers! The weather can be unpredictable in November, so it’s best to be prepared for anything. Don’t forget a hat, gloves, and a warm jacket. And if you’re planning to hike, be sure to pack waterproof gear and sturdy hiking boots.

Q: Are there any special events or activities happening in November at state parks?

A: Many state parks offer special events and activities during the fall, such as guided hikes, nature walks, and fall foliage festivals. Check the park’s website for a schedule of events.

Q: How do I find a state park near me?

A: There are many resources available to help you find a state park near you. You can use the National Park Service website, the website of your state’s park system, or a website like AllTrails.com.

Q: What are the best state parks to visit in November for fall foliage?

A: The state parks mentioned in this article are all known for their stunning fall foliage. Other great options include:

New England: New Hampshire’s Franconia Notch State Park, Vermont’s Stowe State Park, and Massachusetts’s Mount Greylock State Reservation.
Mid-Atlantic: Pennsylvania’s Ricketts Glen State Park, Maryland’s Swallow Falls State Park, and Delaware’s Cape Henlopen State Park.
Midwest: Wisconsin’s Devil’s Lake State Park, Minnesota’s Voyageurs National Park, and Michigan’s Mackinac Island State Park.

Q: What are the best state parks to visit in November for hiking?

A: The state parks mentioned in this article all offer fantastic hiking opportunities. Other great options include:

West: Washington’s Olympic National Park, Oregon’s Crater Lake National Park, and California’s Redwood National and State Parks.
South: North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Parkway, Georgia’s Tallulah Gorge State Park, and Tennessee’s Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area.

Q: What are the best state parks to visit in November for wildlife viewing?

A: The state parks mentioned in this article all offer opportunities for wildlife viewing. Other great options include:

East: Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park, West Virginia’s Blackwater Falls State Park, and New York’s Adirondack Park.
West: Wyoming’s Yellowstone National Park, Montana’s Glacier National Park, and Idaho’s Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve.

No matter what you’re looking for in a November getaway, a state park visit is sure to deliver. So get out there, explore, and enjoy the beauty of autumn!

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November’s Calling: 5 State Parks Where Autumn’s Still In Full Swing