The Big 5 for Fall

As the crisp autumn air begins to paint the leaves in hues of gold, red, and orange, it’s the perfect time to pack up your RV and hit the road for an adventure through Utah’s iconic Big 5 national parks. Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Aren’t national parks packed with tourists?” Sure, they can be, but armed with a sense of adventure, the Harvest Host app, and a few insider tips, you’ll uncover the hidden gems and avoid the crowds.

Visiting the Big 5—Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef—during the fall instead of the crowded summer months offers a refreshing and way less frustrating experience. The vibrant fall foliage adds an extra layer of beauty to the already breathtaking vistas. I’ve done all five parks in the fall and even the early winter and it is truly the time to go.

Zion National Park: Gateway to Autumn Splendor

The RV group I travel with chose to begin in Zion National Park. We were greeted by the towering red cliffs and serene valleys that make this park a favorite. But while the main trails can still be busy we got away from all of the crowds by simply taking the scenic drive to Kolob Canyons and hiking there. The Kolob Terrace Road offers breathtaking vistas without the hustle and bustle. Trust me, the panoramic views at Kolob Arch will have you feeling like you’ve stumbled into a secret slice of paradise. The Fisher Family Farm Harvest Host stop is a perfect compliment to Zion. With its special events and garden center it is a wonderful way to support a family farm.

Bryce Canyon National Park: Hoodoos and Hiking

Next, we visited Bryce Canyon National Park, famous for its bizarre rock formations known as hoodoos. These towering spires of rock are particularly stunning against the backdrop of fall foliage. While the park’s main amphitheater is a must-see, try the Fairyland Loop Trail. This trail leads to quieter, equally stunning vistas. Harvest Host’s Freedom Ranch in Paragonah Ut is another small family farm to stay at. They have horses and goats and the views of the Dixie National Forest are worth the drive!

Capitol Reef National Park: Orchards and Outlandish Scenery

Our adventure continued to Capitol Reef National Park. For some reason this park is often overlooked but it is splendid in the fall. The park is known for its historic orchards, and if you time it right, you can participate in the fall harvest. Don’t miss the scenic drive through Capitol Gorge, where you can spot ancient petroglyphs and pioneer graffiti. And if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, the Cathedral Valley Loop offers a remote, off-the-beaten-path experience that’s perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. For somewhere to stay try Boulder Mountain Guest Ranch. This Harvest Host stop is 168 acres of walking paths, pastures and wetlands and an onsite organic restaurant. This is a beautiful stop and you can ask the host about staying extra nights.

Arches National Park: Nature’s Playground

Arches National Park, with over 2,000 natural stone arches, was next on our itinerary. The cooler fall temperatures make hiking here a joy and we did several.. While Delicate Arch is the star attraction, the Devils Garden Loop Trail was way less crowded but an equally spectacular experience. Watch for the Landscape Arch and Double O Arch. Buzzards Belly General Store is an interesting off-the-beaten-path in a ghost town Harvest Host stop. Yes it is a general store-but so much more.

Canyonlands National Park: Majestic and Mysterious

Our journey culminated in the breathtaking expanse of Canyonlands National Park. We made a beeline for the Needles District. This hidden gem is adorned with vibrant spires and a labyrinth of trails promising awe-inspiring vistas. Among these, the Chesler Park Loop stands out, weaving through canyons and arches, offering jaw-dropping panoramic views that will leave you spellbound. Then on our last day in the area we rented 4x4s for an expedition into the enigmatic Maze District—a truly exhilarating adventure that's as cool as it gets.The Canyon Country Discovery Center in Monticello is where you want to stay. This Harvest Host location is perfect for the dark sky enthusiasts. It has a museum, hiking trails and is just 47 miles from Moab.

Off the Beaten Path: Hidden Gems

While the Big 5 were the stars of our trip, the true highlights were our spontaneous visits to the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and Goblin Valley State Park. The slot canyons, painted in the rich hues of autumn, and the whimsical rock formations of Goblin Valley felt like our own private discoveries. Being so close, it was irresistible to stop by, especially with the absence of crowds. Traveling in the fall made these incredible sites even more enchanting, and it felt like nature put on a show just for us. If you’re looking for a peaceful and vibrant RV adventure, fall is the perfect time to explore these hidden treasures.

As a seasoned RV traveler, I can't help but reminisce about the countless autumns I've spent chasing the changing leaves and uncovering hidden gems in breathtaking parks. There's something truly magical about fall—the crisp, cool breeze, the vibrant tapestry of foliage, and the peaceful solitude as crowds return to their homes. Don’t overlook a fall trip; it might just surpass your summer adventures.