When fall comes around, all your warm dreams come true. 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. The best time to enjoy fall foliage in Salt Lake City is the last two weeks of September and early October.
Memory Grove Park
Memory Grove Park is right in the heart of Salt Lake City. It’s a hidden paradise with hints of reds and yellows along the way. Since this park is located at a lower elevation than the mountains, it offers vibrant colors even late in the season.
City Creek Canyon
If you are in Memory Grove Park, don’t miss a chance to visit City Creek Canyon. To get there, just follow the trail north, and you’re there. City Creek Canyon is a 6.5 mile (10.5 km) out-and-back trail filled with dense red, yellow, and orange trees. Usually, this route takes two and a half hours and offers picturesque views.
Big Cottonwood Canyon to Park City
The Big Cottonwood Canyon Road is one of the best fall foliage destinations near Salt Lake City. Take I-215 to the 6200 South exits and follow the signs to Big Cottonwood/Brighton/Solitude ski areas. This destination will impress you with breathtaking alpine scenery with many biking and hiking opportunities.
Alpine Scenic Loop
The Alpine Scenic Loop connects American Fork Canyon with Provo Canyon. The route is approximately 24 miles (39 km) and takes about 45 minutes to drive. Offering glacially-carved peaks and the awe-inspiring Mount Timpanogos, this byway is ideal for an unforgettable fall foliage experience. You can stop off for a short hike to Cascade Springs to slow down and breathe in the fresh air.
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. Elbow Fork, Bowman Fork, Big Water Trail, and Dog Lake Trail are the most popular trails you can walk. To get to Millcreek Canyon, take I-215 to Wasatch Blvd and turn onto Mill Creek Canyon Road.
Practical info
When is the ideal time to view the fall foliage in Salt Lake City?
Salt Lake City is home to some amazing fall foliage which peaks during the last two weeks of September and early October. Shades of brilliant green turn to yellow, red, and orange, giving the area beautiful dense forests of color. The comfortable and cool weather at this time is perfect for extended stays, and the perfect vista will take your breath away. Show more
What are the top Salt Lake City spots to immerse myself in fall colors?
There are several places to enjoy the vibrant fall foliage around Salt Lake City. The Alpine Scenic Loop is one of the best to explore and offers dramatic views of Mount Timpanogos and glacially-formed peaks. City Creek Canyon, Memory Grove Park, Millcreek Canyon, and Big Cottonwood Canyon Road all have colorful red, yellow, and orange trees. You will not be disappointed when exploring these picturesque spots. Show more
How is Alpine Scenic Loop long and how long the drive will take?
If you are looking to explore the scenic Alpine Loop, you will be pleased to know that the 24-mile long (39km) road only takes about 45 minutes to drive. The area is renowned for its magnificent views and is a great vantage point to fully absorb the stunning landscape. A brief detour to Cascade Springs your drive may offer opportunities to spot some amazing wildlife and see the natural beauty of the area at a much slower pace. Show more
When is the best time to see fall colors in Millcreek Canyon?
Millcreek Canyon transforms into a beautiful natural painting during the best time to see fall colors in Salt Lake City. The stunning panorama of the canyon is best witnessed during the last two weeks of September and early October when fall foliage is at its peak. To experience the best that this oasis has to offer, it is recommended to try popular hiking trails such as Dog Lake Trail, Big Water Trail, Bowman Fork, and Elbow Fork during this period. Show more
How can I find the trailhead for hiking in City Creek Canyon?
If you are on the lookout for an excellent hiking experience, make your way to Memory Grove Park's trailhead and take the northbound trail towards the City Creek Canyon. The 6.5-mile (10.5 km) out-and-back trail offers the perfect distance an amazing view of the red, yellow, and orange foliage. It's a great way to spend two hours of your day and enjoy the fresh air while keeping healthy and revitalized. Show more
