September is one of the best months to explore America’s national parks and public lands by car. The crowds of summer start to fade, the weather becomes more pleasant, and in many places, the first signs of fall color begin to appear. Whether you're in search of high-mountain views, vibrant foliage, or peaceful coastal stretches, these scenic drives offer unforgettable journeys through the heart of the American landscape.
1. Trail Ridge Road – Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Distance: 48 miles
Best Time to Go: Early to mid-September
Climbing to over 12,000 feet, Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous paved road in the United States. This dramatic route cuts across Rocky Mountain National Park, offering expansive alpine views, windswept tundra, and a good chance of spotting elk during the rutting season. Visitors can stop at the Alpine Visitor Center and multiple overlooks that provide views stretching all the way to the Continental Divide. September brings the first signs of golden aspen groves and cooler temperatures at elevation. The drive connects Estes Park on the east side with Grand Lake on the west, two gateway towns worth exploring for food, lodging, and local culture.
2. Skyline Drive – Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Distance: 105 miles
Best Time to Go: Late September
This scenic route traces the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains through Shenandoah National Park, offering sweeping views over the Shenandoah Valley and Piedmont region. With 75 scenic overlooks, it's easy to take your time and soak in the changing hues of the hardwood forests. While peak fall color usually arrives in October, higher elevations along the drive start to turn in late September. The park is also rich in history, with Civilian Conservation Corps-built structures, old homesteads, and interpretive stops. Popular short hikes along the way include Stony Man, Blackrock Summit, and Dark Hollow Falls.
3. Going-to-the-Sun Road – Glacier National Park, Montana
Distance: 50 miles
Best Time to Go: Early September
This engineering marvel crosses the heart of Glacier National Park, taking visitors past glacier-carved peaks, alpine meadows, and turquoise lakes. The road climbs to Logan Pass, where you can hike among wildflowers or spot mountain goats and bighorn sheep. September is an excellent time to drive the road before snow closes the upper portions, and the late summer light creates beautiful reflections on Lake McDonald and Saint Mary Lake. Be aware that weather can change quickly at elevation, and the road is often closed by mid-to-late September due to early snowfall. Gateway communities like West Glacier and St. Mary provide lodging and supplies for the journey.
4. Kancamagus Highway – White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire
Distance: 34 miles
Best Time to Go: Mid to late September
Known simply as "the Kanc," this short but stunning highway traverses the White Mountains and showcases some of New England’s best fall foliage. In September, sugar maples begin to ignite the hillsides with fiery reds and oranges. Along the route, you'll find scenic pullouts, covered bridges, waterfalls, and access to trailheads like Sabbaday Falls and the Greeley Ponds. The drive runs between Lincoln and Conway, two towns with excellent dining, lodging, and outdoor shops. Expect cooler mornings and increasingly vibrant colors as you head toward October.
5. Pacific Coast Highway – Big Sur, California
Distance: 90 miles (Monterey to San Simeon)
Best Time to Go: All of September
While not known for fall foliage, the Big Sur coast is absolutely stunning in September. The summer fog begins to lift, revealing dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, and towering redwoods. This section of California Highway 1 hugs the coastline with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, punctuated by iconic stops like Bixby Bridge, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park (home of McWay Falls), and Pfeiffer Beach. September weather tends to be mild and dry, making it an ideal time for photography and hiking. Campgrounds and state parks along the route are quieter than during peak summer months.
6. Beartooth Highway – Montana and Wyoming
Distance: 68 miles
Best Time to Go: Early September
This high-elevation highway connects Red Lodge, Montana, with the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park. With switchbacks, glacial lakes, and sweeping tundra, it’s often considered one of the most scenic mountain drives in America. In early September, visitors may still enjoy relatively warm days, but snow is always a possibility. Stop at the Top of the World Store, take in views at Beartooth Pass, and hike to one of the many alpine lakes just off the road. The route also serves as a quieter approach into Yellowstone, with easy access to Lamar Valley’s wildlife viewing opportunities.
7. San Juan Skyway – Southwest Colorado
Distance: 233 miles (loop)
Best Time to Go: Mid to late September
This scenic byway loops through some of Colorado’s most spectacular mountain towns and alpine landscapes. Starting in Durango, the route takes you through Silverton, Ouray, Telluride, and back again in a circle of historic mining towns, towering peaks, and vibrant aspen groves. The Million Dollar Highway, between Silverton and Ouray, is a highlight with hairpin curves and no guardrails, but the views are second to none. Fall colors begin to show up in earnest by mid-September, especially around Telluride and the Lizard Head Wilderness. History buffs will appreciate the preserved narrow gauge railroads, while outdoor lovers can hike, bike, or soak in hot springs along the way.
Tips for September Scenic Drives
- Check road conditions and seasonal closures. Many mountain routes are weather-dependent and can close suddenly due to early snowfall.
- Start early in the day. Lighting is best in the morning, and shorter days mean you’ll want to maximize daylight hours.
- Bring layers. Temperatures can change drastically with elevation or weather shifts.
- Support local communities. Stop for a meal, stay the night, or visit a local shop to enhance your trip and help small towns thrive.
Whether you’re chasing color, solitude, or epic views, these scenic drives make September one of the most rewarding times of year to explore America’s public lands. From the Rockies to the Pacific Coast to the rolling mountains of the East, there’s a road waiting for your next great adventure.
Have a favorite September drive? Share your journey and inspire others to hit the road with purpose and curiosity.
