Fall Colors in Park City, UT 2025

Park City is known mainly as a winter skiing destination, but during the fall season, it turns into a golden wonderland. The colorful time of year in Park City is short yet breathtaking. You can see tons of reds, yellows, and oranges in the city and its outskirts. To get the best snapshots of the fall foliage and get the most out of leaf-peeping, take a stroll through Park City's many attractions, including Big Cottonwood Canyon and Rockport and Wasatch Mountain State Park.

Best Time to See Fall Foliage

You can go to Park City when leaves start changing colors in late September. The trees in the mountains start transforming first. The fall-foliage season lasts only a few weeks, ending in early October. By this time, Park City turns all shades of flaming red, bronze yellow and vibrant orange. So you may want to plan your fall trip in advance to get the most out of it.

Places to See Fall Foliage in Park City

There are several awesome places in Park City to visit. The area has many hiking trails, drives, and other cool spots to enjoy the autumn fairytale. Guardsman Pass Byway offers a breathtaking drive through Park City's natural wonders, while Big Cottonwood Canyon boasts picturesque views of mountain lakes and Storm Mountain. Rockport State Park and Wasatch Mountain State Park serve as prime destinations for fall camping and leaf-peeping.

Guardsman Pass Scenic Byway & Overlook

The Guardsman Pass Byway is a two-hour drive through Park City’s backcountry. However, if you make stops along the way, it may take even longer. The route boasts amazing views of the autumn flora. You’ll be able to spot red, orange, and yellow trees against the gorgeous mountain background. This scenic drive is a perfect leisure activity for a single-day weekend. In addition, be sure to visit the Guardsman Pass Scenic Overlook and take some Pinterest-like photos there. The pass is usually closed during winter, so consider traveling here before the first snow.

Big Cottonwood Canyon

This canyon is one of the best spots for a leaf-peeping trip. Big Cottonwood Canyon is only a 30-minute drive from Park City. Both the route to the location and the canyon itself are extremely picturesque. You’ll enjoy great views of the stunning golden hills, early fall reds and oranges, and even the spectacular Lake Blanche (but you’ll have to drive for another 10 minutes to get there). Remember to grab your camera to capture this golden scenery. If you venture further into the Wasatch Forest, you'll find numerous options for hiking and picnics. Admission to the Canyon is completely free.

Rockport State Park

Located just 14 miles (23 km) away from Park City, Rockport State Park is one of the most beautiful natural destinations in the state of Utah. The area boasts impressive flora and fauna, with chipmunks, mule deer, badgers, foxes, and other wildlife roaming around the park. While hiking through Rockport woods, you'll find some of the oldest trees in the region, which turn yellow and red during fall. Birches are especially wonderful this time of year. Fall season at Rockport State Park is also a great chance to go fishing and boating. The park operates from 6 am until 10 pm year round. Admission costs $15 for adults and $10 for seniors.

Wasatch Mountain State Park

Another park worth visiting during fall foliage season in the Park City area is the Wasatch Mountain State Park. Nestled near beautiful landscapes of Heber Valley and 18 miles (29 km) from Park City, the park boasts an impressive spacious area of 21,592 acres (8738 ha). Black willow trees, cottonwood, maples and oaks all create a gorgeous fall landscape, with leaves changing into their crimson and golden attire. The park is open year-round from 9 am until 5 pm. Admission costs $10 per car with 8 people and $5 per car with 8 seniors over 65 years old.