Caveman's Favorite Fall Destinations

Fall is the perfect season to enjoy the outdoors without summer crowds and heat waves. As the weather shifts to cooler temperatures and bright colors of amber, crimson, and orange we naturally begin to crave connection with autumn landscapes. Curiosity and wanderlust sparks our natural instincts to roam our local, state, and national parks. So where during this fall season will you go?

We gathered our top fall destinations so you can travel to a relaxing autumn getaway that brings you back to nature.

1. WACHAU VALLEY- AUSTRIA

Longing for a European getaway? Vienna, Austria calls your name! There’s plenty of walking and sightseeing to do in Vienna and adding a full-day biking excursion to your itinerary is definitely worth it. About an hour outside of Vienna, the Wachau Valley is beautiful countryside with lush valleys, quaint villages with cobblestone roads (not easy to ride a bike on, by the way), and rolling vineyards with some of Austria’s best wine.

Fall temperatures and fewer tourists make this an ideal time to be outdoors. A romantic getaway for two or a memorable time with friends, biking along the Danube River is a perfect mix of beauty and relaxation.

 Insider Tips:

• This adventure requires a moderate fitness level
• Sunscreen and plenty of water and snacks are a must
• Bring a rain poncho because the Fall weather can vary considerably within the same day and from day-to-day

2. ZION NATIONAL PARK - UTAH

The fall is a great time to visit Zion National Park because the temperatures are lower than summer, when it can be over 100 degrees. The top three things to do in Zion, from easiest to most difficult:

The Narrows – are the beautiful slot canyons of Zion. You’ll need to take the park shuttle, to the very last stop in the canyon. Walk from there to the entry point of the trail and be prepared for water--- yes, there’s a high likelihood that you will get wet! Start early to avoid the crowds and get beautiful views of the sun lighting up the canyon. There are rocky spaces to enjoy a little picnic or rest, but don’t forget whatever you pack with you must come back to your campground or vehicle for proper disposal.

Angel’s Landing – Hike up this famously tall and steep rock formation in Zion. Get there early (take the first shuttle if you can, you’ll be happy you did) to avoid the crowds later. The best thing you can bring with you – patience and civility because it definitely gets crowded. If you have problems with vertigo or heights, this might not be the best outing for you. The incredible view about 1,500 feet above the ground is worthy of a couple photos or two.

Photo by Fineas Anton by Unsplash

The Subway – if you’re looking for more of a physical challenge than The Narrows or Angel’s Landing, you can try hiking and canyoneering at the Subway. It’s a fairly strenuous 9.5-mile hike that requires rappelling and rope skills, and you’ll need to swim through several small, but deep pools of cold water.

You’ll need to apply for the lottery to get a permit for this one, up to three months in advance. But it’s worth it as the environment is beautiful and very unique. The Subway is a series of slot canyons, above the more famous and more accessible Narrows.

Insider Tips:

• Bring water shoes, trekking poles or walking sticks. If you don’t have any you can always rent some at the local gear shop in Zion.
• If you are bringing a phone or camera to take photos, put it in a waterproof pouch or dry bag to make sure it doesn’t get wet when you fall in the water
• If you’re taking things with you (snack bars, water bottle, extra layers, etc.) bring it in a backpack, you’ll definitely want your hands free when you get to the top of Angel’s Landing.
• Get up early, pack the right gear for your hike, and stay informed with a park map.