We’re getting settled into our new life in Europe for the next few months, but I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a little sad to be missing the fall season back home. The Fall colors in Utah really are the best. So, in lieu of being on some of my favorite autumn trails, I’ve rounded up the best scenic hikes and viewpoints across Utah to help you make the most of the season.
This trail list span from northern to southern Utah. To make planning easy, I’ve included links to AllTrails and Google Maps so you can access more info on trail details, driving directions, and additional reviews before you go. Drop in the comments which hikes you’re enjoying and what else I should add to the list.
1. Alpine Loop Scenic Byway
I’ll start with Utah’s most iconic drive: The Alpine Loop. The Alpine Loop is a local favorite for a reason—winding roads, panoramic views, and trails that take you right into and through the color. The perfect Sunday afternoon drive, but be prepared for crowds. Drive slow and be kind! In that same neck of the woods if you’re looking for a hike you can check out:
- Stewart Falls – 3.4 miles, waterfall, aspen groves, great for families.
- Timpanogos Cave Trail – Short and steep, but the views are worth every step.
📍 Best Time to Go: Late September to early October
2. Cecret Lake & Lake Blanche
Located just outside Salt Lake City, Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons are some of my favorite outdoor playground spots in Utah. There are tons of hiking options from classic trails, day hikes, and overnight options. Both canyons are part of a watershed system, so keep in mind no dogs (except for official service dogs) are allowed in either canyon.
- Cecret Lake – An easy hike to alpine lake that has a pretty kid friendly trail.
- Lake Blanche – A more challenging trek (6.9 miles round trip) with slightly less crowds and some elevation.
📍 Best Time to Go: August to mid-October
3. American Fork Canyon
This quieter trail is a hidden gem with incredible mountain views and fall color. The gradual incline makes it feel relaxing, and the overlook offers a great peaceful overlook. It’s not as crowded as other nearby trails, making it great for a more secluded outing with the kiddos. In the fall the colors are especially pretty so it can get crowded on peak color evenings. This one we don’t always make it to the end and just enjoy the trail.
- Primrose Overlook- 3.3 miles round trip with about 700 feet of elevation gain. I would rate this hike has difficult but worth it!
📍 Best Time to Go: Early to mid-September
4. Logan Canyon
Northern Utah’s most loved canyon. The winding drive through Logan Canyon is gorgeous on its own, but you’ll want to hop out and hike to get the full experience.
- Crimson Wall Trail – Moderate 4.8-mile loop with killer views. Not super kid friendly, as there are some drop of spots. Look for moose along the river!
- Wind Caves Trail – 4 miles round trip to unique limestone caves. Very steep, but worth it! A Logan canyon classic.
- Tony Grove Reservoir – A beautiful lake with a small camping ground. There is a mile loop trail around the lake that is great for families.
📍 Best Time to Go: Late September to early October
5. Kolob Canyons (Zion National Park)
While Zion Canyon gets most of the attention, Kolob Canyons in the park’s northwest corner is a fall treasure. Fewer crowds, cooler temps, and unique autumn views with red cliffs dotted with bright yellow trees.
- Taylor Creek Trail – A 5-mile round trip hike through a colorful canyon to a double arch alcove.
📍 Best Time to Go: Mid-October to early November
6. Capitol Reef National Park
Yes, Capitol Reef has fall color! The Fruita Historic District is a great place to be to experience Fall. If you’re not in the mood for hiking you can pick apples or pears in the orchards, which is usually a hit with kids. Visiting in the fall time means cooler temperatures and stunning autumn foliage. This season offers fewer crowds, but shorter days mean less time for activities, so plan accordingly.
— For a detail hiking guide check out my full post on Capitol Reef! —
- Fremont River Trail – 2 miles with great views of the orchards and canyon walls.
📍 Best Time to Go: Early to mid-October
7. Mount Nebo Scenic Byway
Mount Nebo is the highest peak in the Wasatch, and its scenic byway is one of Utah’s most underrated fall drives. Towering aspens and minimal crowds make it perfect for a weekend outing.
- North Mount Nebo Trail – For experienced hikers, this summit trail is jaw-dropping in fall. 8ish miles, but plan to take the whole day! I recommend hiking poles, plenty of water, and snacks.
📍 Best Time to Go: Late September
8. Fishlake National Forest
What’s better than aspens in the fall? Fishlake National Forest is infamous for housing the world’s largest organism called Pando, which is a huge grove of genetically identical Aspens that are thousands of years old. Fishlake itself is a great place for boating, kayaking, and fishing.
- A casual walk along Fish Lake, or explore nearby trails and scenic drives. This area is one a great spot to enjoy Fall colors in Utah!
📍 Best Time to Go: Late September, but before the first cold snap
9. Buffalo peak
Buffalo Peak–This short summit hike offers amazing views over Utah Valley for minimal effort. It’s great at sunrise or sunset and is great spot to see the leaves changing. The drive to the trailhead is on a 3 mile stretch of dirt road, but passable for most vehicles in dry conditions. The last push to the peak is very steep and there is no shade up to, and honestly the view before it is even better so I don’t always go to the peak.
📍 Best Time to Go: September-November
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