Fall isn’t just about pumpkin spice and cozy sweaters—it’s also one of the best seasons for wildlife watching. As animals prepare for winter, they become more active and visible. Let’s explore three top destinations where you can get up close with America’s diverse wildlife this fall.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Yellowstone is a wildlife paradise, especially during the fall months. The park’s diverse ecosystems support an array of animals, including bison, elk, grizzly bears, and wolves. Fall is the elk rutting season. This means visitors have a chance to witness bull elks bugling and competing for mates.
Assateague Island, Maryland/Virginia
This barrier island is famous for its wild horses, which are believed to be descendants of domesticated horses that escaped from early colonial settlers. Fall is an excellent time to visit: the crowds thin out and the mosquitoes disappear. Besides horses, you can spot deer, waterfowl, and even dolphins offshore.
Denali National Park, Alaska
While Denali’s tourism peak is in summer, fall offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities. As animals prepare for winter, they become more visible, foraging at lower elevations. You might see moose, caribou, Dall sheep, and if you’re lucky, grizzly bears. The park’s fall colors are a stunning backdrop for wildlife photography.
