This National Park Looks Like A Winter Wonderland In Autumn. Here's How To Prepare For It

Among the beautiful U.S. national parks to add to your October bucket list, Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park might be at the top. But it's always important to plan ahead when traveling during inclement weather — and this is true here, too. On 23 September, 2025, park officials posted on Facebook that it was already snowing in high-elevation areas of the park, with lower-elevation areas also expecting to see some rainfall.

That isn't particularly unusual for this time of year. The park's planning resources warn that, "at the park's higher elevations, snow will begin to fall and dust the ridge of the Continental Divide." This seasonal shift can see some immediate effects, like roads closing earlier than usual, icy surfaces, and fewer hours of daylight. But the scenery in fall is well worth the visit, with snow-capped peaks and gorgeous forest foliage changing to gold-and-red hues.

Still, these weather changes mean some closures do occur. As of the time of writing, there are some temporary trail closures in place, and Trail Ridge Road is limited to a timed entry reservation. Rangers are keeping a close eye on the weather every day to determine road conditions and keep visitors safe. As the vehicle extraction business Traxion Pro wrote on the park's Facebook post: "This is why it's especially important to be prepared! Always keep extra supplies on you and if you're driving make sure your vehicle is safe and have emergency gear on hand as well."

If you head to Rocky Mountain National Park in fall, you'll be straddling two seasons. 2025's early snowfall is a reminder to come prepared for inclement weather, even if you're just leaf peeping. "Fall in the Rockies means that it is also time to be ready for winter driving conditions in the mountains," the National Park Service said on Facebook. "Take time to make sure your vehicle is ready ... check the weather before beginning your trip, wear appropriate layers to help keep you warm, and be prepared to alter travel plans or use alternate routes."

Watch for alerts, and remember that things can change quickly. The NPS also warned that Colorado Vehicle Traction Law can be implemented anytime, so visitors should ensure they have properly rated tires — those designated mud and snow, mountain and snow, or all-weather — with at least 3/16 inches of tread. "If your vehicle does not have properly rated tires, you must use an approved traction control device," officials said. "These may include snow chains, cables, tire/snow socks, or studded tires."

Around this time of year, daylight is shrinking, and storms can move in fast. So start hikes early, keep your distance from exposed ridgelines, and consider staying below the tree line if the weather turns. For fall foliage views, lower-elevation trails are a safer bet. Anyone heading higher up should bring essential gear. That includes traction aids, waterproof boots, insulated layers, gloves, and hats. Whether you're hiking a scenic path along the Continental Divide or just exploring the best of Colorado's natural wonders, a little planning can help you make the most of your visit. The reward is a landscape alive in gold and orange, and even an early winter wonderland experience.