7 Spectacular Spots to See Utah’s Fall Colors
Utah’s fall colors stretch from golden aspens in the northern Wasatch Mountains to the cottonwoods set against red rock formations in the south. Central Utah has classic drives like the Nebo Loop, while Fishlake National Forest features one of the world’s largest aspen groves.
Read on for our all-time favorite fall destinations in Utah.
When to Visit Utah for Fall Colors
Peak foliage times in Utah can vary a lot by elevation. Colors typically start at the highest elevations in mid-September, gradually moving downward as temperatures drop. Most locations reach their peak from late September through early October, though lower elevation areas can have a slightly longer season.
Plan your trip based on elevation: destinations like Guardsman Pass and the Alpine Loop peak earlier, and lower canyon floors and southern Utah locations often hold their colors into mid-October.
Temperatures in the early fall are comfortable for outdoor activities, making it ideal for hiking, photography, and RV travel.
Top Places for Fall Colors in Utah
1. Alpine Loop Scenic Byway
Color explosion along the Alpine Loop
Northern Utah, near Sundance
This 20-mile, 2–3 hour route is Utah’s quintessential fall drive, consistently ranked as one of the state’s best. You’ll see stunning views of Mount Timpanogos set among colorful aspen and maple forests.
If you want to stretch your legs, the Timpooneke Trail is a popular 7-mile round-trip hike to Mount Timpanogos Cave, with excellent fall foliage viewing along the way.
Nearby RV campground: Lake Shore RV Park sits on Utah Lake and features full-service hookups and amenities including WiFi, laundry facilities, and recreational activities.
2. Nebo Loop National Scenic Byway
The curvy drive on Nebo Loop in the fall
Central Utah, near Payson
This 38-mile scenic drive takes 2-4 hours and is often called the best-kept secret for fall foliage by locals. You’ll get to see breathtaking, high-elevation views with fewer crowds than the Alpine Loop, making it perfect for travelers who want spectacular autumn colors away from the masses.
The route climbs to over 9,000 feet elevation, so you’ll experience some of the earliest and most vibrant fall colors in the state.
Nearby RV campground: Springville/Provo KOA Holiday is in Springville, just north of the Nebo Loop’s entrance, and has full-service hookups, a swimming pool, and other amenities that make it a comfortable base for exploring the byway.
3. Little Cottonwood Canyon
A patch of golden aspen in Little Cottonwood Canyon
Northern Utah, just south of Salt Lake City
Plan 30-45 minutes for photo stops in pullouts along this 7-8 mile scenic drive during peak fall season. The canyon is known for its incredible mix of maple, oak, and aspen trees (plus world-class ski areas) set against sheer granite walls.
If you want to hike, take the 2.4-mile round-trip Lisa Falls Trail to a beautiful waterfall with excellent fall color viewing along the way.
Nearby RV campground: Mountain Shadows RV Park is in Draper, a suburb south of Salt Lake City, and has full-service hookups, WiFi, laundry, a dog run, and a playground.
4. Big Cottonwood Canyon
Northern Utah, southeast of Salt Lake City
This canyon is a more sprawling, scenic drive experience compared to its "little" counterpart and is home to Solitude and Brighton Ski Resorts. The 15-mile scenic drive through the canyon takes 25-30 minutes non-stop, but allow 45-60 minutes for photo stops and foliage viewing.
For hikers, the Lake Blanche Trail is a challenging 6-mile round-trip hike to a beautiful alpine lake surrounded by colorful foliage.
Pro tip: Consider taking the Guardsman Pass route (described below) from Big Cottonwood Canyon for an extended scenic loop.
Nearby RV campground: Sun Outdoors Salt Lake City is north of the city and has full-service hookups, WiFi, laundry, and recreational activities.
5. Guardsman Pass Scenic Byway
Glowing aspens the the top of Guardsman Pass
Northern Utah, between Park City and Big Cottonwood Canyon
This high-elevation drive climbs above 9,000 feet, connecting Big Cottonwood Canyon and Park City. It’s is a favorite among locals for its golden aspen displays and mountain vistas.
You’ll drive up Big Cottonwood Canyon past Solitude, then turn left onto Guardsman Pass Road just before Brighton. The 35-40 mile loop takes 2-3 hours including stops and brings you back via Park City and I-80.
Note: The pass is seasonal and typically closed November through late May.
Nearby RV campground: Park City RV Resort has full-service hookups (and fit rigs up to 75 feet), heated pool, hot tub, pickleball courts, dog park, and direct Rail Trail access to downtown.
6. Zion National Park
Southern Utah, near Springdale
Zion is a completely different fall experience compared to northern Utah’s canyons. Cottonwood and maple foliage contrast against Zion’s iconic red rock cliffs, creating a rich and incredibly photogenic landscape.
Take a walk on the Riverside Walk (1-mile round-trip paved trail) or hike to the Emerald Pool trails (1.5-3 miles depending on which pools you visit) to see this stunning contrast up close.
Nearby RV campground: Zion River Resort has full hookups, a heated pool and spa, and amenities like a charcoal grills, a playground, a mining sluice, and a store.
7. Capitol Reef National Park
South-Central Utah, near Torrey
Capitol Reef has the best fall colors among Utah’s Mighty 5 national parks thanks to its historic pioneer orchards with apple, pear, and cherry trees set against towering red cliffs and rock formations. Plus the cottonwood trees along the Fremont River turn brilliant shades of gold and yellow, creating a stunning visual contrast with the red cliffs.
The Hickman Bridge Trail is a must-do 1.3-mile round-trip hike which leads you to a magnificent natural stone bridge with panoramic views.
Nearby RV campground: Fruita Campground sits among old orchards inside the park and has basic amenities including restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings, but no hookups.
Bonus Spot: Fishlake National Forest
Pando in Fishlake National Forest
East-Central Utah, near Richfield
For something truly special this fall, head to Fishlake National Forest, home to “Pando”—one of the world’s largest living organisms. About one mile southwest of Fish Lake, this massive colony of quaking aspens is an awe-inspiring sea of golden leaves that stretches as far as the eye can see.
The forest has several scenic drives and hiking trails where you can experience the sheer scale and uniformity of this spectacular autumn display.
Nearby RV campground: Fish Lake Lodge RV Park has amenities including hookups, restrooms, and picnic areas in a lakeside, high-mountain setting surrounded by aspens.
Plan Your Fall RV Adventure in Utah
Experience the magic of fall in Utah from the comfort of your RV. Each destination offers gorgeous fall scenery and well-equipped campgrounds to make your journey memorable.
So, pack up, hit the road, and prepare to be amazed by Utah's autumnal beauty!
