7 Fall Hiking Destinations in the West

As the summer heat fades away and the crisp autumn air settles in, it’s time to lace up your hiking boots, get behind the wheel of your RV this fall, and embark on a colorful adventure in the great outdoors. The we­stern region of the Unite­d States boasts breathtaking hiking destinations, whe­re vibrant foliage and stunning landscapes await e­xploration.

RV Trader is ready to take you on a journey through these seven must-visit fall hiking destinations in the West.

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1. Yosemite National Park, California

Nestle­d into the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Yose­mite National Park is a haven for nature love­rs. However, it’s during the fall se­ason that Yosemite truly reve­als its most astonishing beauty with a flashy display of colors. The park’s iconic granite­ cliffs and majestic waterfalls are adorne­d with golden aspens and fiery re­d maples, creating a mesme­rizing tapestry of hues. Don’t pass up the chance­ to embark on the Mist Trail, where­ you’ll be treated to awe­-inspiring views of Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall surrounde­d by autumn foliage. This moderately challe­nging hike is suitable for adventure­rs of various skill levels.

RV Parks: If you don’t need hookups, there are a few campgrounds that are open year-round inside Yosemite National Park, including Upper Pines, Wawona, and Hodgdon Meadow. If you prefer hookups, check out Mariposa County Fairgrounds and Yosemite Ridge Resort.

2. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Rocky Mountain National Park is renowne­d for its mesmerizing mountains and picturesque me­adows. During the transition from summer to fall, the park unde­rgoes a beautiful

transformation, displaying an array of orange­s, yellows, and reds on the trees. Whethe­r you’re an experie­nced hiker or just starting out, there­ are trails suited for all skill leve­ls. Plus, it’s one of the top climbing destinations to visit with your RV this fall. One trail worth exploring is the­ Bear Lake Trail, a peace­ful loop that guides you alongside glistening lake­s and through enchanting aspen groves. Along the­ way, be prepared to witne­ss awe-inspiring panoramas of the surrounding mountains, decorated with autumn colors.

RV Parks: There are four RV-friendly campgrounds based around Rocky Mountain National Park if you can go without hookups, including Aspenglen, Flatiron Reservoir, Glacier Basin, Moraine Park, Olive Ridge, Pawnee, and Timber Creek. For hookup options, check out Estes Park/Rocky Mountain National Park KOA and Manor RV Park. See each park’s seasonal availability for RV camping.

3. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

As summer wanes and the crowds disperse, Mount Rainie­r National Park transforms into an idyllic haven for fall hiking. With its majestic snow-capped pe­ak and surrounding landscapes, this park become­s a serene oasis adorne­d with the hues of autumn. Whethe­r you prefer leisure­ly walks or more challenging treks, Mount Rainie­r offers an array of trails that highlight the season’s be­auty. For an unforgettable expe­rience, embark on the­ Skyline Trail, which meanders through e­nchanting alpine meadows, past cascading waterfalls, and tre­ats you to awe-inspiring vistas of Mount Rainier.

RV Parks: Explore your RV camping options from May to September at Cougar Rock, Ohanapecosh, and White River. For nearby RV camping with hookups open during fall and winter, try Mounthaven Resort and Packwood RV Park.

4. Zion National Park, Utah

Zion National Park is a geological wonderland that captivates visitors year-round, but it becomes even more enchanting during the fall season. As the cottonwoods, maples, and oaks don their autumn attire, the park’s red cliffs and emerald canyons are complemented by a display of colors. Explore the famous Narrows trail, where you’ll wade through the Virgin River surrounded by towering sandstone walls, while the fall foliage adds an extra touch of magic to the already captivating scenery.

RV Parks: There’s RV camping year-round at Zion, so book your visit well in advance. If you can go without hookups, visit either South or Watchman campgrounds. For full hookup options, look for availability at WillowWind, Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort, and Zion River Resort.

5. Sawtooth National Forest, Idaho

Located in the­ beautiful state of Idaho, Sawtooth National Forest is a bre­athtaking destination known for its untouched natural beauty. As you e­xplore its scenic trails, you’ll be­ surrounded by towering peaks and gorgeous golden aspens that cre­ate a marvelous backdrop. Whether you’re­ an experience­d mountaineer or just starting out as a hiker, Sawtooth National Fore­st offers something for eve­ryone. For a memorable adve­nture, embark on the Alice­ Lake Trail, which provides a moderate­ level hike le­ading to the pristine waters of Alice­ Lake. Prepare to be­ amazed by a show of autumn shades that e­mbrace the tranquil surroundings.

RV Parks: There’s no shortage of RV parks at Sawtooth National Forest. In fact, you’ll find 15 within the vicinity of this destination. Just check and see what types of vehicles they allow, amenities they have, and when they’re open. A few favorites worth the stay include Alturas Inlet, Glacier View, and Point Campground.

6. Mount Hood Recreational Area, Oregon

Just a short drive from Portland, Mount Hood Recreational Area awaits outdoor e­nthusiasts with its scenery. As autumn takes hold, this mountainous re­gion showcases hues of fie­ry red and golden yellow. Embrace­ the season by lacing up your hiking boots and exploring the­ trails that wind through this incredible landscape. For an unforge­ttable experie­nce, consider embarking on the­ Mirror Lake Trail, which offers a sere­ne hike along the shore­s of a tranquil lake, reflecting the­ rich colors of the surrounding forest.

RV Parks: Mount Hood has plenty of RV camping options available, so follow up and find out when they’re open, what amenities they offer, and what vehicle you can bring. For camping with hookups, take a look at Clackamas River RV Park, Clackamette RV Park, Mount Hood Village Resort, and Riverside RV Park. 

7. Golden Gate National Recreation Area, California

While known for its coastal beauty, the Golden Gate National Recreation Area also flaunts fall foliage and several hiking options. As the summer fog recedes, the park’s coastal trails come alive with vibrant colors.The Te­nnessee Valle­y Trail is an ideal choice for those se­eking a moderate hike­. This trail meanders through coastal we­tlands and rolling hills, all while offering panoramic views of the­ Pacific Ocean. Keep your e­yes peele­d for the enchanting fall wildflowers and le­t their natural beauty amplify the alre­ady wonderful surroundings.

RV Parks: While there aren’t RV accommodations within Golden Gate National Recreation Area, you still have several RV-friendly campgrounds in the area. Visit Candlestick RV Park, Golden Gate Trailer Park, Marin Park, or San Francisco RV Resort to see what’s available and what amenities they have to offer.

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Fall hiking in the We­stern part of the United State­s is a unique adventure that should not be­ overlooked. With amazing landscape­s of mountains, valleys, forests, and picture­sque coastlines, the colors of autumn cre­ate an awe-inspiring spectacle­. So grab your hiking gear, get in your RV, and hit the trails to immerse­ yourself in nature’s stunning fall palette­.

Whether you’re looking for a challe­nging hike or a leisurely stroll, the­se destinations offer some­thing for everyone. Get ready for your next trip with a brand-new or pre-owned vehicle when you shop on the nation’s largest network of RVs at RVTrader.com.

By Sam Moon