You Must Visit These 12 Awesome Places In Utah This Fall
Utah offers fantastic foliage and amazing attractions that are just better in cooler weather. These places are great year-round, but they’re particularly awesome in the fall. The next time you’re researching fun things to do in Utah in the fall, we hope this list comes in handy! Ready to start exploring?
When it comes to memorable things to do in Utah in the fall, you can't go wrong with a trip to any of Utah's national parks. Tourists come from all over the world to visit our five national parks; they each offer a unique kind of natural, Utah beauty. In my opinion, fall is the absolute BEST time for Utahns to visit. The tourist season is pretty much over, so the parks are much less crowded. And, instead of sweating like crazy in sweltering, 100-degree weather, you’ll enjoy mild temperatures.
Most farmers don’t appreciate strangers tramping through their corn fields during the growing season. But in the fall, they cut their fields into mazes, charge a small admission, and offer tons of fun! One of our favorite corn mazes in Utah can be found in Lehi.
Many of Utah’s ski resorts offer great deals on lodging before the snow falls, so they’re a great weekend getaway. Most have a lift or two in operation so you can soak in some mountain splendor and even hike or mountain bike back down the hill. Looking for a little inspiration? Check out our list of ski resorts in Utah with affordable lift tickets. You'll be glad you did the research!
Tuacahn is another amazing venue for outdoor entertainment. But of course, it’s hot in the summer. Therefore, fall proves to be the perfect time to plan your trip there. You'll quickly discover why it's considered one of the most unique performance venues in Utah.
Antelope Island is a great place to see wildlife and some beautiful scenery year-round, but it’s a really exciting place to visit during the annual Bison Roundup. If you can't make the trip during the fall, you'll be pleased to hear that Antelope Island in Utah is a great destination in the wintertime too!
Fall offers some of the best fishing in Utah. During the summer, hot temperatures keep fish in the deepest regions of the lake. When the temperature starts to fall during October, the fish move into more shallow waters. They also start trying to gorge themselves to put on a nice, thick layer of fat for the winter. Looking for a little inspiration? Check out our list of the most beautiful lakes in Utah.
Fall is when our local parks are really enjoyable. They’re quiet during the weekday, when kids are in school, and they’re full of activity in the late afternoon when kids play football or soccer. Fall is the perfect time for a picnic in the park. You'll also find that Utah's state parks are beautiful this time of year.
Temple Square during December is a madhouse. Oh, it’s worth it to see the Christmas lights in Utah. But it’s also really crowded and crazy. If you want to avoid throngs of people, wait until after General Conference. Then, make the trip to downtown Salt Lake City for a jaunt around Temple Square, a visit to Main Street Plaza, and dinner at The Roof.
Unless you live in Utah’s Golf Mecca (St. George), you’ve got to get those last few games in before it snows. Mild temperatures make for an enjoyable game and the crowds at the course have started to thin.
You’ll still find plenty of produce at Utah’s various farmer’s markets in the fall. Buy a bunch to freeze, dry, can, or otherwise, preserve for the winter. Support Utah’s local farmers! For one of our favorites, check out one of the oldest farmer's markets in Utah.
The Utah Symphony spends much of the summer at outdoor venues. While it’s amazing to hear the symphony at Deer Valley or Red Butte, it feels a bit like coming home to hear them in Abravanel. It's one of those marvels in Utah that needs to be experienced to be believed.
Abravanel Hall, 123 W S Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, USA
The most popular are probably the Alpine Loop and the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway, but there are dozens of awesome drives all over the state. Many, like the two I’ve already mentioned, burst with gorgeous fall foliage. For more, check out our list of the most beautiful scenic drives in Utah.
What are your favorite things to do in Utah in the fall? Did any of those activities or attractions miss the list? Be sure to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you!
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The OIYS Visitor Center
things to do in Utah in the fall
August 16, 2022
Beth C.
Where can I go to see fall foliage in Utah?
When most people think of fall foliage, they conjure up images of New England, which is famous for its breathtaking display of vivid autumn colors. And yet, you'll be delighted to hear that Utah has its fair share of fall beauty. In fact, we've even put together a road trip that will take you to some of Utah's most stunning fall foliage. The first destination on our itinerary is Big Cottonwood Canyon. It's here that you can stop at Solitude and Brighton for some gorgeous hikes amid golden aspens. Next up is Guardsman's Pass, where the view is like something straight out of a painting. Be sure to bring your camera with you to capture the colorful view. Next up is the small town of Midway, which isn't just full of gorgeous fall foliage but it also features some great spots for lunch. Next up is the iconic Sundance. It's here you can catch a ride on the lift for a breathtaking and unforgettable view of the canyon below.
When is the best time to see the fall colors in Utah?
It's hard to predict exactly when fall foliage will peak in Utah. However, it's typically during mid-September and early October. Some of the best views will come from higher-elevation destinations throughout the state.
What's the best hike to take in Utah in the fall?
Almost all of Utah's hikes are gorgeous during the fall season. However, one, in particular, is a popular choice come autumn. Bells Canyon Falls measures a little under 5 miles and features not only stunning fall colors but a gorgeous waterfall as well.
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Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.
