There's no better way to savor autumn than to explore the beautiful tapestry of changing colors in and around Zion National Park. With this 2024 leaf-peeping guide, we're taking you through the most scenic spots at the right times and elevations, with a splash of science for those who love understanding our natural world! With no further ado, here's where you can experience autumn's magic in Zion, Bryce Canyon, the Grand Canyon, and beyond.

Late September: Head to Higher Elevations

As autumn sets in, cooler temperatures and shorter days signal aspens at elevations above 8,000 feet to turn gold. This is the season's earliest, most vibrant display, and Bryce Canyon National Park, the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, and Cedar Breaks National Monument are perfect high-altitude destinations for soaking up these first signs of the changing season. If you're wondering what's happening within the leaves themselves, it all comes down to chlorophyll (which we promise is far from boring). As chlorophyll fades away in the aspens's leaves due to shorter days, these high-elevation trees reveal their hidden pigments—a glowing yellow and gold. So, lace up your hiking boots and head to the high country for some of the most breathtaking views!

• Guide Tip: Explore Aspen-Mirror Lake near Cedar Breaks National Monument for a peek at a few of our region's most expansive golden aspen groves. It's a photographer's dream and a leaf-peeper's paradise!

October: Mid-Elevations Bring Fall into Zion

October is the prime time for the heart of Zion Canyon and surrounding Southern Utah communities like Kanab, Orderville, and Mount Carmel Junction, which sit around 5,000 feet. Here, rabbitbrush (also called Chamisa) and cottonwood trees show off their deep yellow, casting a warm glow over the already dramatic Navajo sandstone cliffs. Cottonwoods, iconic to Zion's riparian ecosystem along the Virgin River, are actually related to our high-elevation favorite, aspen trees! Both trees are members of the genus Populus, which is part of the willow family. This is why both trees radiate a similar golden hue during autumn, and if you take a peek at their leaves, you'll realize they are almost identical in shape (but not always in size)!



• Guide Tip: Beat the crowds in Zion and head to one of our favorite hidden gems, Lower Pine Creek Waterfall. This leisurely trail offers a vibrant display of cottonwoods and rabbitbrush as well as an up close and panoramic views of Zion.
  

Early November: Lower Elevations for a Last Taste of Autumn

By early November, fall colors drift to lower elevations. The rabbitbrush and cottonwood trees are in full, late-autumn splendor, especially around St. George, Utah, and Snow Canyon State Park, both of which lie below 3,000 feet. This is your last chance to catch autumn's magic before winter begins its quiet transformation. The colors here can be subtle but offer a beautiful contrast against the blue skies and red rocks. A wet growing season is one of the biggest factors in predicting how vibrant our Southern Utah fall display will be. Increased moisture followed by dry, sunny autumn days with crisp (not freezing) nights usually yields the best colors.

• Guide Tip: Catch the final dance of fall at Red Cliffs National Reserve, where golden hues accent the stunning red cliffs. The contrast along the Red Reef Trail is something quite special, especially in the early morning or late afternoon light. 

Go Guided. Go Beyond.

To truly experience the full spectrum of fall colors in and around Zion, go guided with All Ways Adventure. Our expert guides know the best trails, viewpoints, and hidden gems to make your autumn adventure unforgettable. We'll help you explore elevations from the high golden aspens to the glowing cottonwoods, taking you beyond the main paths to fully immerse you in Southern Utah's fall beauty. With a guided experience, you'll capture the season's best colors, avoid the crowds, and discover the wonders of Zion and beyond that you might otherwise miss. So what are you waiting for? Go beyond just leaf-peeping—go guided and experience Zion and Southern Utah like never before!