The best times to visit Shenandoah National Park are September through November and March through May, when the park is at its prettiest. Fall welcomes warm shades throughout the park, putting an autumnal twist on Shenandoah's panoramic views.

As temperatures cool, the park transforms into a kaleidoscope of reds, oranges, and yellows, drawing visitors from near and far to witness nature's spectacular autumn colors along Skyline Drive. The fall season in Shenandoah typically spans from late September through November, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 49°F to 60°F.

Peak fall foliage in Shenandoah National Park usually starts around the second week of October. Fall color usually shows at the higher elevations first in Shenandoah and in the southern district. The northern portion closer to Washington DC tends to change color later in the season.

The peak season for fall in Shenandoah National Park is usually early October, though you can enjoy fall foliage from September through October. The leaf-peeping season here is longer than in many other parts of the country – sometimes extending into November!