Salt Lake City Fall Colors in Utah 2025

As autumn approaches, Salt Lake City transforms into a picturesque destination filled with vibrant fall foliage. Put on your fuzzy cardigan, take a cup of warm cacao or mulled wine, and get ready to enjoy top-notch fall foliage spots in and near Salt Lake City. Whether enjoying a scenic drive along the Alpine Loop or hiking through the colorful trails of Millcreek Canyon, the beauty of Utah’s autumn landscapes is truly captivating.

Top Spots to Enjoy Fall Colors

Memory Grove Park

Located in the heart of Salt Lake City, Memory Grove Park offers a hidden paradise of red and yellow leaves. This park, situated at a lower elevation than the mountains, retains vibrant colors late into the season.

City Creek Canyon

Adjacent to Memory Grove Park, City Creek Canyon is a 6.5-mile (10.5 km) out-and-back trail that immerses visitors in dense red, yellow, and orange foliage. The trail usually takes about two and a half hours to complete and offers stunning views.

Big Cottonwood Canyon to Park City

A short drive from the city, Big Cottonwood Canyon is renowned for its breathtaking alpine scenery and abundant biking and hiking opportunities. The road to the canyon is accessible via I-215, following the 6200 South exits.

Alpine Scenic Loop

Connecting American Fork Canyon with Provo Canyon, the Alpine Scenic Loop is a 24-mile (40 km) route that takes approximately 45 minutes to drive. The byway showcases glacially carved peaks and Mount Timpanogos, ideal for a memorable fall foliage experience.

Millcreek Canyon

Millcreek Canyon is a picturesque canyon in the Wasatch Mountains on the east side of the Salt Lake Valley. With plenty of hiking trails, it offers excellent fall color panoramas. Popular trails include Elbow Fork, Bowman Fork, Big Water Trail, and Dog Lake Trail. To get to Millcreek Canyon, take I-215 to Wasatch Blvd and turn onto Mill Creek Canyon Road.

Activities and Amenities

In these locations, visitors can engage in a variety of activities, such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. Memory Grove Park and City Creek Canyon are perfect for leisurely strolls, while Big Cottonwood Canyon and Millcreek Canyon offer more challenging hikes. The Alpine Scenic Loop provides opportunities for both hiking and scenic drives. For those looking to enjoy a meal or a drink, several cafes and restaurants can be found near these locations. Big Cottonwood Canyon, for instance, has cafes and eateries in nearby Brighton and Solitude.

Entry Fees, Operating Hours, and Parking

Most of these locations do not charge an entrance fee, but some, like Millcreek Canyon, require a $5 fee per car. Operating hours vary, but generally, parks and trails are open from dawn to dusk. Parking is available at all these sites, with ample space in larger areas like Big Cottonwood Canyon and Alpine Scenic Loop.

Selfie Spots

For those looking to capture the perfect autumn photo, the Utah State Capitol grounds, with its fiery hues, and Liberty Park, with its 100-year-old trees, provide stunning backdrops. Main Street Salt Lake City offers a unique blend of skyscrapers and luminous yellow leaves, creating a striking contrast between the urban environment and nature. In the Sugar House neighborhood, the area around 1500 S 800 E boasts a tunnel of golden colors formed by arching historic trees, ideal for creating leaf confetti for that perfect shot. Additionally, the Alpine Scenic Loop and Millcreek Canyon offer numerous picturesque spots for memorable fall photos.

Nearby Attractions

In addition to fall foliage, visitors can explore other attractions near these locations. For example, the Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort in Little Cottonwood Canyon hosts the famous Oktoberfest, offering a unique combination of fall colors and festive activities. Liberty Park and Main Street in Salt Lake City offer cultural experiences and dining options.