September Vacation Ideas for Nature Lovers

With summer coming to an end and fall just around the corner, September is the perfect time to be outside enjoying the pleasant weather. Summer crowds are winding down, and the first hints of early fall colors are here. You will find an ideal outdoor climate that is the perfect balance between warm and cool on scenic hikes in mid-September. It is warm enough for outdoor adventures like hiking or kayaking in warm waters; however, it is cool enough for cozy evenings by the fire. What’s more, staying at unique boutique hotels or glamping resorts can add an extra layer of charm and welcoming vibes to your stay. Read more to discover September vacation ideas that immerse you in natural beauty during your travels.

Travel in September to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park

September is a magical time to visit Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. It offers the perfect balance of fewer crowds and warmer weather. You will find sunny days at the best beaches, and crisp hiking weather without humidity for your adventures. Maine in September has average temperatures from the low 70s to the low 50s. This makes it much warmer than the fall and winter months to come. With the summer rush having passed, there will be quieter streets and easy access to the most popular trails. Additionally, you will be the first to experience the early signs of fall and the picturesque scenery that comes with it.

Acadia in September is a playground for nature lovers, with outdoor parks at their best, post-peak summer season. You can start your day by climbing to the top of Cadillac Mountain for the sunrise. Then, enjoy sunny skies as you spend time kayaking along the coast. End your night in Bar Harbor, a charming coastal town, where you can enjoy local events and waterfront shops. A visit here surely fits in among the best September vacation ideas.

September Vacation Ideas: Stay at Terramor Resort

To enhance your visit in September, staying in a glamping resort will allow you to be even more engaged with the pure magic of the season. The dry weather during September is perfect for glamping. Being less than five miles from Acadia National Park, glamping at this resort will have you in a sweet spot within the gorgeous landscapes of the area. In addition to being within proximity to many must-see attractions, the resort itself is an experience like no other. The resort features five different styles of luxury tents to choose from. Each tent is carefully designed to include modern necessities and luxuries, including electricity, WiFi, plush linens, and portable heaters. Some tent styles even include private outdoor showers!

Visit in September: Stowe, Vermont

September is a fantastic time to visit the gorgeous Stowe, Vermont, as the Green Mountains are beginning to transform into the colors of Autumn. The weather during this month is finally cool enough to spend most of your day outside. Additionally, with the tourist season now over, there is no better time to visit. There are endless trails to hike in this area, which is perfect for nature lovers. You’ll find options in Smugglers’ Notch State Park or along Mount Mansfield’s Ridgeline.

If you seek a balance of outdoor activities with local town exploration, check out the local art galleries in the historic district. On this friendly town’s main street, you will find stunning architecture within the historic buildings. Additionally, this street wraps around the base of Vermont’s tallest mountain, providing spectacular views. There are also many great places to eat and explore unique local foods. A great example is Cold Hollow Cider Mill, which offers fresh apple cider and cider donuts. There are also several maple syrup farms that you can visit. This mountain town offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and cozy atmosphere, making it ideal for September vacation ideas.

September Vacation Ideas: Stay at Outbound Stowe

This breathtaking renovated mountain lodge features many different room styles that will have you settling in for a cozy transition into fall weather. You’ll enjoy pillow-top beds, luxury linens, and all of the fixings for comfort and charm. In addition to the luxurious, cozy accommodations, there is a range of amenities that will enhance your experience with nature throughout your stay. Enjoy the Stowe Recreation path, which is perfect for a scenic stroll through nature and is accessible from the property. When you are done, take a dip in the pool on warm days. Alternatively, the hot tub is great on cool evenings, all with mountain views. After your day of exploring nature in Stowe, unwind by the fire pit, or even roast some marshmallows.

Enjoy Great Weather in September in the Great Smoky Mountains

September is an ideal month to go on an adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains near Robinsville, North Carolina. As the first pops of color start to emerge, this area will offer a mountain escape far from tourist crowds. This area is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy scenic views of rolling hills covered in early autumn colors. Nature lovers will thrive while hiking through the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest. Here, you can explore some of the oldest and largest trees on the east side of the United States. And if you enjoy water activities, the warm weather during the day in September is perfect. The nearby Nantahala River offers experiences like kayaking and white water rafting, perfect for even more nature adventures.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park also has an abundance of active wildlife that you can look for during your getaway. You may see black bears, wild turkeys, foxes, and white tailed deer. If you enjoy fishing, you will also find opportunities in the cool mountain streams and nearby lakes. And if you like slower-paced leisure activities but still want to be immersed in nature, take a slow paddle down Lake Santeetlah.

For even more adventure, take a drive over the mountains to Knoxville, Tennessee. This city, just two hours from Robinsville, offers a very different experience that you may want to add to your trip. Here, you can swap quiet mountain roads for a lively city scene, making it perfect for a day trip. Enjoy wine tastings, live music, food festivals, and more.

September Vacation Ideas: Stay at Huffman Creek Retreat

Located in Robinsville, North Carolina, in the heart of Appalachia, this will be your new favorite private mountain escape. This one-of-a-kind resort is a short drive from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering so much adventure to nature lovers. The resort itself boasts miles of private hiking trails, perfect for a mountain getaway. There are even three onsite waterfalls! Huffman Creek Retreat also offers a very private feel, with only seven unique cabins. This experience is truly a luxurious way to enjoy September. Guests can take in unobstructed creekside views, utilize private firepits, and receive convenient firewood delivery and s’mores kits. The cabins also range in size to accommodate various party sizes, are family-friendly, and are pet-friendly if you want to include your pet in your September vacation ideas.

Plan Your September Escape with Nook Outdoors

Make your stay unforgettable by booking one of Nook Outdoors‘ unique resorts in the best locations for nature adventures. Avoid summer crowds and enjoy fewer tourists on your nature adventures when you visit in September. Whether you want to enjoy water activities while it is still warm enough, or hiking because it is finally cool enough, September is the perfect shoulder season month. Want even more ideas for places to visit on nature-focused adventures? Browse our full collection of boutique hotels, luxury glamping destinations, cabin rentals, and more below to find your ideal September escape.