Exploring the Best Fall Hikes and Drives in Utah: A Guide to Autumn Adventures

Get ready, because Utah's fall season is on the horizon, and it's shaping up to be a dream come true for leaf-peepers. The secret to a dazzling display of fall colors often lies in the right balance of moisture, and this year, Mother Nature seems to be cooperating. Thanks to a substantial snowpack followed by nourishing spring rains, Utah's autumn hues are expected to burst forth in splendid fashion, according to Katie Wagner, an associate professor of horticulture at Utah State University.

Peak Time For Fall Colors

While the exact timing of Utah's fall foliage varies from year to year, some general guidelines can help you plan your leaf-peeping adventures. In the northern reaches of the state, the best window to witness nature's artistry typically opens from the end of September through early October, with October 9th being the pinnacle of color explosion. Down south, the fall extravaganza usually unfolds later, peaking in late October or early November.

Utah's Best Scenic Fall Drives 

Utahns are in for a treat as they hit the road to encounter breathtaking autumn scenes. While residential areas occasionally reveal their own share of fall colors courtesy of ornamental trees, it's the scenic drives that truly steal the show. Here's a roundup of the best routes to explore:

1. Big Cottonwood Canyon Scenic Byway and Little Cottonwood Canyon Scenic Byway: Near Salt Lake City.
2. Ogden River Scenic Byway: East of Ogden, where the fall palette unfolds in all its glory.
3. Logan Canyon National Scenic Byway: A journey through Cache Valley that promises unforgettable sights.
4. Provo Canyon Scenic Byway: Winding through Utah and Summit counties, a splendid fall adventure awaits.
5. Alpine Loop: A scenic drive through the picturesque American Fork Canyon.
6. Energy Loop: Huntington and Eccles Canyons National Scenic Byway: Explore the enchanting Manti-La Sal National Forest in southeastern Utah.
7. Fish Lake Scenic Byway and Beaver Canyon Scenic Byway: On either side of the Fish Lake National Forest in south-central Utah.

Best Fall Hikes in Utah

For those seeking a closer connection with nature, Utah offers an array of scenic hikes that take you deep into the heart of autumn's vibrant tapestry. Here are some top picks:

• Cascade Springs Trail: Venture along the Alpine Loop Scenic Backway (State Route 92), near Provo and Heber. This is one of Utah’s most popular hiking trails to view fall foliage and rightly so. During peak leaf-peeping season, this area comes alive with the most vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. There are three different loop trails you can tackle that total less than one mile and two loops are fully handicapped accessible. This is one of the most kid-friendly fall hikes in Utah and you won’t want to miss it each year.
• Bloods Lake in Bonanza Flats: is quite popular—for good reason—making it a great weekday option. The three-mile out-and-back trail has a mellow grade and consistent surface twisting through aspen before tipping up over the last .4 miles to the eponymous lake, where it’s common to spot a moose taking a dip. Start from the new parking area in Bonanza Flats.
• Donut Falls in Big Cottonwood Canyon: The quick out-and-back trail to Donut Falls in Big Cottonwood Canyon starts from the Mill D parking area. There is limited parking a half-mile up the summer trail, but on weekends it’s almost certain to be full. The well-maintained trail ends with a rocky scramble up to the gorgeous falls. Give the little ones a hand because it’s well worth the extra effort.  
• Grotto Falls: is a short 0.6-mile out-and-back trail along the Mount Nebo Scenic Byway. You will walk through stunning fall foliage as you follow a stream on your way to the small falls. The trail is easy and well-trafficked, making it the perfect family adventure.
• Temple Quarry Trail: If you want a quick stroll through fall foliage, the Temple Quarry Trail will not disappoint. This is a 0.3-mile paved loop trail. The trail takes you near the quarry where the pioneers used to mine rocks to build the Salt Lake City Temple. Short, easy, and beautiful — this is one fall hike in Utah that definitely deserves to be on your bucket list.