The Ultimate Guide to Autumn Hiking in Utah
Explore our favorite trails for leaf-peeping, family adventures, and unforgettable solo sprints through Utah’s landscapes.
As the leaves begin their metamorphosis, Utah shifts into a sea of golden aspens to fiery maples and ever green conifers. It’s easy to lose yourself in the magic of fall, but stay sharp on the trails ahead. Whether you’re looking to escape for a peaceful hike with your pup or bring friends out for a day of adventure — autumn is the perfect time to do it!
We’ll take you off the beaten path to explore our favorite local fall hikes. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker looking for a challenge or just looking for a relaxing walk through nature, these trails will leave you inspired by the season.
These are just a few of the many! Let us know your favorites. Read below for hikes or skip to the end for tips and a downloadable hiker’s checklist :)
Why Fall Hiking in Utah is Special
Utah’s diverse ecosystem means that fall brings unique beauty to each corner of the state.
In northern Utah, the forests explode into a sea of orange, red, and yellow as the aspens and maples change color.
Further south, the contrast of fall foliage against the red rock landscapes is stunning.
Fall is also a prime time for wildlife sightings, cooler temperatures, and fewer crowds compared to summer.
Northern Utah’s Must-Hike Trails
Tony Grove Lake Loop
Difficulty: Easy
What to Expect: Located in Logan Canyon, this family-friendly trail circles the serene Tony Grove Lake, offering peaceful views of the surrounding fall foliage. The loop is a great place to spot wildlife and the reflection of the golden aspens in the lake makes for perfect photo opportunities. With cooler temperatures, a light jacket will come in handy for early morning or late afternoon hikes.
Details:
Distance: 1.2 Miles
Elevation Gain: 59 ft.
Type: Loop
Average Time: 24 min.
Need to Know:
Fees below
Dog friendly, kid friendly
Features: Lakes, wildflowers, wildlife, and forest views
Popular: Fishing, Hiking, Paddling, Walking
Access Fees: $15.00: Day Use and TH, $25.00: Weekly, $40.00: Season Pass
Other Notes: The trail is located at higher elevation, so it can be colder in the fall. Snow may start early.
AllTrails: Click here to see photos and explore more
Wind Cave Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
What to Expect: For hikers seeking more of a challenge, the Wind Cave Trail provides a moderate climb through Logan Canyon. The trail offers stunning fall views of the canyon and, at the top, a unique limestone cave formation awaits. Pack layers as the canyon can cool down quickly in the late afternoon, and remember to bring extra water—hydration is just as important in fall.
Details:
Distance: 4 Miles
Elevation Gain: 1,095 ft.
Type: Out and Back
Average Time: 2 h 16 min.
Need to Know:
Dogs on leash
Stunning views of unique rock formations
Easy hike with challenges along the way, few steep spots
Trail conditions are weather dependent (mud, snow)
Features: caves, wildflowers, and views
Popular: Hiking, Running, Walking
Access Fees: No fee for the trail itself.
Other Notes: Logan Canyon is prone to colder temperatures in fall, so dress accordingly. Parking is free but limited.
AllTrails: Click here to start your adventure
Salt Lake Area Trails for Scenic Fall Adventures
Mount Olympus Trail
Difficulty: Hard
What to Expect: For experienced hikers, the Mount Olympus Trail offers one of the best views of the Salt Lake Valley, especially with fall colors decorating the foothills. This strenuous hike rewards you with panoramic vistas, but be prepared—sections of the trail can be steep and rocky. We recommend starting early to avoid being caught by fall’s early sunsets.
Details:
Distance: 6.9 Miles
Elevation Gain: 4,087 ft.
Type: Out and Back
Need to Know:
Dog friendly
Can have spotty cell service
Breathtaking panoramic views at top but gorgeous the whole way
The upper section of this route requires parts of Class 3 scrambling to reach the summit
You can turn around at any point to make this a shorter hike (it’s very common) and enjoyable either way
Not all sections are particularly well marked but it’s one of the busier hikes around (for good reason)
Scramble at top only, rivers, waterfall view across the way, wildflowers, wildlife
If you’re heading out in the snowier end of Fall, check https://utahavalanchecenter.org for avalanche updates! Consider crampons if so (makes all the difference in snowy conditions)
Popular: Hiking
Access Fees: No fee to hike the trail.
Other Notes: The trailhead parking is located in a residential area, so be mindful of parking regulations. Steep, rocky sections make this hike challenging at the top, otherwise in non-snowy conditions it’s pretty moderate.
AllTrails: Plan your ascent
Cecret Lake Trail
Difficulty: Easy
What to Expect: This short, easy hike leads to Cecret Lake, nestled in Little Cottonwood Canyon. In the fall, the aspens and surrounding peaks make for a picturesque setting. It’s a perfect trail for families or anyone looking for a leisurely afternoon hike. Early snow can sometimes blanket the area, so check conditions before you go.
Details:
Distance: 1.8 Miles
Elevation Gain: 465 ft.
Type: Out and Back
Averaged Time: 1 h 1 min.
Need to Know:
Fee
Family-friendly, day trip friendly, unfortunately no dogs
You can relax at the lake and take some family photos
Trail begins at around 9,000’ of elevation
Trailhead is located right by Albion Basin Campground
(Optional) Continue hiking up from this trail to Sugarloaf Peak
Check conditions. If trail is already snowy, you may want to add snowshoes or spikes to your packing list.
Due to limited parking at Cecret Lake/Catherine's Pass Trailheads, it is highly recommended that hikers park in the Albion base area parking lot and hike the Upper Albion Meadows Trail.
Includes: forests, lakes, rivers, wildflowers, wildlife, lots of rocks, and views
Popular: Hiking, Camping
Access Fees: No trail fee but this hike is located in Little Cottonwood Canyon, where the Albion Basin parking lot may require a fee and roads may close depending on early snow conditions.
Other Notes: Check road conditions in fall, as early snow could impact access.
AllTrails: Learn all about Cecret Lake Trail
Park City’s Premier Fall Hikes
Bloods Lake Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
What to Expect: A great hike for families or anyone seeking a relaxed experience, the Bloods Lake Trail offers peaceful views and great fall foliage. This scenic hike is relatively short, and the colors of the surrounding trees reflecting in the lake are a sight to behold.
Details:
Distance: 2.8 Miles
Elevation Gain: 462 ft.
Type: Out and Back
Averaged Time: 1 h 17 min.
Need to Know:
Kid-friendly
Dogs on leash are allowed on most of this trail, but are not allowed at Bloods Lake itself
Hike starts above 9,000 feet
At the top of Big Cottonwood Canyon
Short portions of the trail are steep and rocky
The trailhead can easily be reached from the Wasatch Front, Midway, and Park City-just below Guardsman Pass
The trail connection between Bloods Lake and Guardsman Pass is permanently closed
(Optional) Slight extension to this route (to take in new views) by hopping on the Lupine and Kalamazoo trails to get back to the parking lot
The Bloods Lake Trailhead parking lot has a camera to observe conditions, check for available parking, and plan your trip! To see, visit: https://mountaintrails.org/parking-cams/
Features lakes, wildlife, lovely views, and wildflowers
Popular: Hiking
Access Fees: No fee.
Other Notes: Parking is available at the Bloods Lake Trailhead parking lot, but it can fill up quickly, especially during weekends.
AllTrails: Discover new sights!
Rob’s Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
What to Expect: If you’re after more of a challenge — Park City’s own Rob’s Trail weaves through red, yellow, and green groves and offers breathtaking views of the rolling mountains. Fall’s colors are especially vibrant here, and you’ll enjoy solitude on this longer trail, ideal for day-long adventures.
Details:
Distance: 8.5 Miles
Elevation Gain: 1,863 ft.
Type: Out and Back
Averaged Time: 4 h 23 min.
Popular: Hiking, Mountain Biking
Access Fees: No fee.
Other Notes: Many mountain bikers here, be aware of them and dogs who may be off leash. The elevation change is gradual so it’s good for those of most skill levels. The earlier the better to make it in the parking lot.
AllTrails: The sky’s the limit, discover it
Southern Utah’s Fall Highlights
Canyon Overlook Trail
Difficulty: Easy
What to Expect: Zion National Park is stunning year-round, but fall is something special. The Canyon Overlook Trail offers a short, easy hike with one of the best vantage points in the park. The bright colors of the canyon and trees, combined with cooler temperatures, make this a must-do in the fall.
Details:
Distance: 0.9 Miles
Elevation Gain: 157 ft.
Type: Out and Back
Averaged Time: 25 min.
Need to know:
Fees below
Dogs not allowed, kid-friendly
Some of the most breathtaking views of Zion Canyon
Located in the Upper East Canyon portion of the park
To do this hike, you must enter the park in a private vehicle
Parking and overflow parking down the road
The trailhead is a collection of stone steps that ascend the ridge directly across the road from the first parking area
Features: caves, rivers, breathtaking views
Popular: Hiking, Walking
Access Fees: Yes, located within Zion National Park, so there’s an entry fee of $35 per vehicle (valid for 7 days).
Other Notes: This trail can get crowded, even in the fall. Arrive early to secure parking.
AllTrails: Find out more about Canyon Overlook
Angel’s Landing
Difficulty: Hard
What to Expect: Paved trails and amazing views! Not for the faint of heart. Steep, narrow, and partially paved ways will get you to the top. If you’re ready to get active and have your efforts be rewarded with breathtaking sites — this may be your southern match.
Details:
Distance: 4.3 Miles
Elevation Gain: 1,827 ft.
Type: Out and Back
Need to know:
National Park Fee: $35 per vehicle
No dogs :(
Steep drop offs and very narrow sections
Observation point 1,500 feet above Zion Canyon
The first few miles of this route along the West Rim Trail are on a paved path
Budget extra time for this route due to its technical sections
Anchored support chains are attached along some sections of the sheer cliff to assist your way up and down the carved steps
Features: Partially paved, scramble, rocky, wildlife, no shade, rivers
Popular: Hiking
Access Fees: Yes, also located within Zion National Park (fee above).
Other Notes: Avoid crowds (if that’s your thing) and get up and at ‘em early. Fall is a great time to avoid the heat, but check trail conditions for any closures.
AllTrails: Move up in the world!
Bonus: Slot Canyons
Eastern Utah’s Iconic Autumn Trails
Window’s Loop and Turret Arch Trail
Difficulty: Easy
What to Expect: A short, family-friendly hike in Arches National Park with exceptional views.
Details:
Distance: 1.2 Miles
Elevation Gain: 154 ft.
Type: Loop
Average Time: 30 min.
Need to know:
Fee below
No dogs allowed
There’s good climbing for kids
Until Oct. 31st, you will need a Timed Entry Ticket available for purchase here
Turret Arch is a beautiful free standing arch in the Windows area of Arches NP
Popular: Hiking, Walking
Access Fees: Yes, located in Arches National Park, which has an entry fee of $30 per vehicle (valid for 7 days).
Other Notes: The Windows Section is 12 miles from the park entrance; park here for trails to Turret Arch, North Window, South Window, and Double Arch. Toilets are open year-round. There is no drinking water available at the trailhead. To avoid peak congestion, arrive before 9 am or after 1 pm.
AllTrails: Window Shopping? This is an easy sell.
Fisher Towers Trail
Difficulty: Hard
What to Expect: Southern Utah’s desert landscapes are even more enjoyable in the fall. The Fisher Towers Trail, located near Moab, takes you through towering rock formations, and the cooler fall air makes the hike much more enjoyable. It’s a unique contrast from the usual fall foliage but no less impressive. Features natural towers.
Details:
Distance: 4.2 Miles
Elevation Gain: 1,469 ft.
Type: Out and Back
Averaged Time: 2 h 46 min.
Need to know:
Dogs are allowed on leash, but there is a small ladder 1.5 miles in that may be difficult for large dogs
Limited cell service
Major towers
Nearest town is Moab
Natural rock art along the way
Portable toilet systems required (pack in, pack out)
Check for flash flood warnings before you venture
Popular: Hiking, Running
Access Fees: None.
Other Notes: This trail is located near Moab and can be accessed without fees. The desert can get windy in fall, so prepare for variable weather.
AllTrails: Explore Fisher Towers
Devil’s Garden Loop
Difficulty: Hard
What to Expect: Arches National Park is a fall favorite, thanks to fewer crowds and cooler weather. The Devil’s Garden Loop takes you through arches, rock formations, and stunning desert landscapes. Keep your camera ready—fall’s light makes the red rocks glow even more vividly. Features natural arches.
Details:
Distance: 7.9 Miles
Elevation Gain: 1,085 ft.
Type: Loop
Need to know:
Fee below
Dogs not allowed
Not good for children or those afraid of heights
Large parking area
Until Oct. 31st, you will need a Timed Entry Ticket available for purchase here
Well maintained and wide
One of the longest natural arch spans in the world
Side trips to various arches available or you can skip for faster and easier routes
Partially paved, scramble, wildlife, great views
Popular: Hiking
Access Fees: Yes, located in Arches National Park, which has an entry fee of $30 per vehicle (valid for 7 days).
Other Notes: Fall is one of the best times to visit Arches due to cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, but the parking lots can fill up quickly, especially in popular areas like Devil’s Garden.
AllTrails: Plan your hike at Devil’s Garden Loop
Bonus:
Hiking and Photo Op with the Arches @ Delicate Arch Trail
(Shhh… Utah’s Hidden Gem Hikes)
Adams Canyon Lower Falls
Location: Layton, UT
Difficulty: Moderate
What to Expect: This hike leads to a beautiful waterfall tucked into the canyon. The lower falls are much less crowded than the main Adams Canyon Trail, offering a peaceful place to enjoy the fall colors and listen to the rushing water.
Details:
Distance: 1 Mile
Elevation Gain: 305 ft.
Type: Out and Back
Need to know:
Dogs on leash
Includes waterfalls, rivers, scramble, and lovely views
Popular: Hiking
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: Many people bypass the lower falls for the longer hike, but this shorter option provides an intimate fall experience with vibrant foliage and fewer crowds.
AllTrails: Hike, trip, skip to the dip
Lake Blanche Trail
Location: Twin Peaks Wilderness
Difficulty: Moderate
What to Expect: This trail leads from Tony Grove Lake to White Pine Lake, a stunning alpine lake that sees fewer visitors than the more popular Tony Grove Lake. In the fall, the lake is surrounded by golden aspens and rugged mountain peaks.
Details:
Distance: 7 Miles
Elevation Gain: 2,811 ft.
Type: Out and Back
Averaged time: 4 h 59 min
Need to know:
Dogs and swimming are not allowed at the lakes
This incredible hike is often called one of the best hikes in the Twin Peaks Wilderness Area
The trail starts at the Mill B South Fork Trailhead off Big Cottonwood Canyon Road before turning onto Lake Blanche Trail
At the top are three beautiful lakes: Lake Blanche, Lake Florence, and Lake Lillian
Check avalanche warnings before beginning your trek @ https://utahavalanchecenter.org
It features a beautiful mountaintop lake, rivers, wildflowers, historic sites, awesome views, and abundant wildlife
Popular: Hiking, Camping
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: Beautiful fall colors and lakes that make you work for the view. If you’re looking for a bit of a challenge while being in awe of the lands around you, this is the one.
Bald Mountain Trail
Location: Uinta Mountains, UT
Difficulty: Moderate
What to Expect: A less-traveled peak in the Uinta Mountains, Bald Mountain offers incredible views of the surrounding high-altitude terrain. In the fall, you’ll see golden aspens dotting the valleys below, while the higher altitudes offer a peaceful and brisk hiking experience.
Details:
Distance: 2.7 Miles
Elevation Gain: 1,181 ft.
Type: Out and Back
Averaged time: 2h, 2 min
Need to know:
Fee below
Kid-friendly, dog-friendly
Great for beginners
Peak at about 12,000 ft
Fees: 3-day: $6.00, 7-day: $12.00, Annual: $45.00
Popular: Hiking and Walking
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: This peak sees fewer hikers than other high-elevation hikes, and the fall season makes it a quiet, breathtaking trek.
AllTrails: This hike may knock your socks off, but your hair should be safe. Bald Mountain ahead. Giddy up!
Ghost Falls Trail
Location: Draper, UT (Corner Canyon)
Difficulty: Easy
What to Expect: This hidden gem takes you to a small but beautiful waterfall tucked away in Corner Canyon. The fall colors in this area are stunning, and the hike is perfect for families or anyone looking for a short and sweet fall adventure.
Details:
Distance: 3 Miles
Elevation Gain: 449 ft.
Type: Out and Back
Averaged time: 1 h 20 min
Need to know:
Kid-friendly, no dogs
Not accessible by vehicle
Hike from the Peak View Trailhead
Popular: Hiking and Mountain Biking
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: While Corner Canyon is popular for biking, this quiet trail to Ghost Falls is lesser-known and offers a peaceful retreat during the fall months.
AllTrails Link: Think it’s bad when a human falls for you? Wait until a Ghost Falls for you… Ghost Falls, see the unseen!
Diamond Fork Hot Springs (Fifth Water Hot Springs)
Location: Spanish Fork, UT
Difficulty: Moderate
What to Expect: This trail leads to natural hot springs surrounded by colorful fall foliage in Diamond Fork Canyon. The vibrant colors and the cool fall air make the warm springs even more inviting.
Details:
Distance: 4.5 Miles
Elevation Gain: 636 ft.
Type: Out and Back
Averaged time: 1 h 57 min
Need to know:
Dogs on leash
Parking and a bathroom are available at the trailhead
Parking on the street is discouraged and subject to ticketing
Popular: Hiking
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: While becoming more popular, this hike is still a hidden treasure in the fall. Many people visit in the summer, but fall offers cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a perfect time to soak in the hot springs.
Gloria Falls
Location: Big Cottonwood Canyon, UT
Difficulty: Moderate
What to Expect: If you’re looking for an easygoing outing to enjoy the seasonal changes… look no further. Putting the Gloria in glorious.
Details:
Distance: 2.2 Miles
Elevation Gain: 534 ft.
Type: Out and Back
Need to Know:
No dogs :(
Slight bushwhacking
Features: forests, rivers, views, waterfalls, wildflowers, wildlife
Popular: Hiking and Walking
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: Despite its proximity to Salt Lake City, this trail remains under the radar, providing a peaceful fall escape with vibrant colors.
AllTrails: Experience new Heights!
Packing Recommendations and Safety Tips for Fall Hikers
When heading out for a hike this time of year, it’s important to be prepared. Utah’s weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains. Here are some tips:
Pack layers: Fall mornings and evenings can be chilly, while noon temperatures might still be warm. Bring a light fleece, a waterproof jacket, wear moisture-wicking clothing (merino wool preferred) and your favorite hiking socks.
Bring extra water and snacks: Fall hikes may take longer due to changing trail conditions, so it’s important to stay fueled and hydrated!
Start early: Days are shorter — plan to be off the trail before sunset.
Watch for wildlife: Fall is a time when wildlife is more active (so be alert) especially during dawn and dusk.
Footwear matters: Waterproof boots are a must for potentially wet or muddy trails (and hence, extra socks). Trekking poles can provide extra stability on slippery leaves or uneven terrain.
Check out our guide below for more!
Key Notes for Fall Hiking:
National Parks: Zion and Arches National Parks both require entry fees.
Parking Considerations: In some areas (like Little Cottonwood Canyon or Park City), parking might be limited or require fees. It’s always best to check ahead, especially for road closures or restrictions due to weather.
Weather Conditions: Some trails (like Tony Grove Lake or Mount Olympus) may be prone to early snowfall or icy conditions. Make sure to check trail conditions before heading out.
Experience the Best of Fall with Us
We encourage all hikers to:
Stay on designated trails
Follow Leave No Trace principles
Respect the wildlife that calls these forests home.
If you’re looking for more expert advice on Utah’s forests or need help managing your own property, get in touch with us! We’re here to support you in protecting and preserving Utah’s wild places.
My Personal Go-To Hikes
Close to SLC
Quick PT Hike:
Jack’s Peak (aka Jack’s Mountain or Jack’s Mailbox Peak)
Near Salt Lake City, UT
Easy parking in residential area at cul-de-sac
Two summits, slightly rocky and slippery in some areas
Takes me a little less than an hour
Amazing panoramic views from both peaks!
Hiker momentos in mailbox at the top
No fee
Dog-friendly, on leash
2.5 miles
1,305 ft. elevation gain
2.5 h is averaged (low commitment for getting out there!)
History: Back in 1995, a toddler named Jack Edwards died of leukemia. In tribute to their son, Jack's parents spread his ashes on this mountain and placed two mailboxes in his memory.
Good for hiking, running, and birding
2. Full PT Hike:
Cherry (aka Orson Smith Trail or Cherry Canyon Logging Trail)
In Draper, UT
Easy parking with two parking lots at trailhead, has bathrooms, and overflow parking on street.
Great elevation gain for a personal training hike, especially weighted
Amazing views at the top. You can see the whole city and beyond!
Challenging but not soul crushing. We did this for crew PT hikes.
Plenty of switchbacks here, a waterfall and bridge on nearby trails
The Orson Smith/Park area is full of various hikes to choose from!
No fee
11.9 miles
5,341 ft. elevation gain
Est. 9 h 4 min.
Out and Back: Customize your hike. Go the whole way or set a goal and turn around after.
Dog-friendly trails with kid-friendly options. There’s a trail for most out here: kids, families, and pets of most abilities. Note: There are some timber stairs and logs to get over so it’s not for everyone.
Shorter, family friendly versions:
Orson Smith Trail (1.1 mi, 357 ft. elevation gain, 41 min.)
Smith Park to Draper Suspension Bridge Loop (2.3 mi, 439 ft. elevation gain, 1 h 7 min.)
Go the distance:
Looking for a full day commitment?
Use this hike to get to Lone Peak: Lone Peak via Cherry Canyon Logging Trail
3. For Funsies:
Info above, under “Salt Lake Area Trails”
Great fun with amazing views! It’s an out and back, so easy to customize (go all the way or turn around at any point)
Good amount of sun, good amount of shade
For full hike, you need to be prepared for all conditions and scrambling
Small water crossing and river rest space.
No fee
Always good to bring tons of water, the right equipment, lots of snacks, extra socks, and a big ‘ole smile.
Especially if doing a short version, it’s great solo or with your own wolf pack (friends, family, and the like).
In Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest
Great fun solo or with your person/people
Not very steep, gradual incline, and lovely views
There’s a nice lookout area where you can turn around if you like
The beginning of the hike is well shaded, then becomes exposed. Surrounded by wildfowers and views into the canyon
$5 fee per vehicle when you leave the area. There are various trails in this area associated with that single fee, and if you dine at the esteemed Log Haven you get a free voucher for entry.
4.2 Mile Loop
1,230 ft. elevation gain
2 h 30 min on average
Kid-friendly, hiking, running
What are your favorite hikes? Got any hiking tips? We’d love to hear!
