Fall Colors in Utah Northern Canyons: 8 Drives to See the Leaves Change

Northern Utah is home to some of the most breathtaking fall foliage in the western United States. As the leaves change, the canyons come alive with vibrant red, orange, and yellow hues. If you're looking to experience the beauty of autumn, a scenic drive through the northern Utah canyons is one of the best ways to take in the stunning fall colors.

The peak season is from late September to October, but the best colors come in early October. You can even stop and hike to experience the beauty at a close range. Here are the eight best routes to see fall color in Utah's Northern Canyons.

Logan Canyon Scenic Byway

Logan Canyon is a well-known gem in northern Utah, and its scenic byway offers one of the most stunning fall foliage displays in the state. Starting in the town of Logan, drive along the U.S. Highway 89, winding through a narrow canyon where towering cliffs rise on either side, and the Logan River runs alongside the road.

The mix of deciduous trees, such as maples, aspens, and oaks, creates a vibrant palette of fall colors that light up the canyon. The drive's highlight is the Bear Lake Overlook, where you'll be treated to panoramic views of the turquoise waters of Bear Lake, surrounded by the changing leaves. The higher elevations in the canyon offer different perspectives on the fall colors, and the many pullouts and picnic spots make it easy to stop and admire the views.

Ogden Canyon Scenic Byway

Ogden Canyon, located just east of Ogden, offers a shorter but equally beautiful drive through a canyon known for its towering cliffs and the Ogden River. The route along State Route 39 is easily accessible and takes you through a winding canyon where fall foliage, including bright red maples and yellow cottonwoods, lines the road.

This scenic drive also provides plenty of recreational opportunities. Pineview Reservoir is located at the top of the canyon. It is a popular spot for fishing, boating, or just enjoying a picnic by the water while surrounded by the colors of autumn. There are also numerous hiking trails in the area, such as the Wheeler Creek Trail, which provides a beautiful way to experience the fall colors up close.

East Canyon Scenic Byway

East Canyon Scenic Byway is a fantastic option to experience history and natural beauty during your fall drive. This route follows State Route 65 through East Canyon, which is rich in Utah history. It was part of the route taken by early pioneers and the Donner-Reed party as they made their way west.

The trail starts at Mountain Dell and goes all the way to Henefer. In the fall, the rolling hillsides are covered in golden aspens and fiery red maples, creating a stunning contrast against the blue waters of East Canyon Reservoir. The reservoir itself is a great spot to stop for a picnic or to enjoy a quiet afternoon surrounded by the beauty of autumn. You can also go boating, fishing, hiking, and camping.

Alpine Loop Scenic Byway

The Alpine Loop Scenic Byway is perhaps the most famous fall drive in all of Utah, and for good reason. This narrow, winding byway takes you through the majestic Wasatch Mountains, passing by towering peaks, waterfalls, and dense aspen groves that light up in vibrant yellows and oranges.

Starting in American Fork Canyon, the drive takes you past the Timpanogos Cave National Monument. You can stop here for a guided cave tour, but the real star of the show is further along the road as you ascend into the high alpine environment. At the summit, the views of Mount Timpanogos are breathtaking, and the fall colors create a magical backdrop for photos.

As you descend into Provo Canyon, stop at Cascade Springs, a beautiful area of natural springs and ponds surrounded by lush foliage. The loop can be completed by driving down Provo Canyon, where the Provo River flows gently through red and yellow foliage, providing a peaceful end to the journey.

Mirror Lake Scenic Byway

If you're looking for a high-altitude drive with some of the best mountain scenery in Utah, Mirror Lake Scenic Byway should be at the top of your list. This drive takes you deep into the Uinta Mountains, climbing to over 10,000 feet and offering stunning views of alpine lakes, pine forests, and aspen groves.

The fall colors along this route are nothing short of spectacular. The road climbs steadily in Kamas, passing several campgrounds, picnic areas, and hiking trails. The highlight of the drive is Mirror Lake itself, a pristine alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks and aspen trees ablaze in yellow.

There are plenty of spots to stop and take in the scenery or go for a short hike. The Bald Mountain Trail is an excellent option for those looking to stretch their legs; it's a moderate 2.8-mile hike that offers 360-degree views of the surrounding area.

Blacksmith Fork Canyon Drive

Blacksmith Fork Canyon is a hidden gem located just south of Logan. This serene drive takes you through a narrow canyon filled with dense groves of maples, oaks, and aspens. Starting in Hyrum, the road follows Blacksmith Fork Creek and gradually climbs toward Hardware Ranch, a wildlife management area.

The colors in Blacksmith Fork Canyon tend to peak in early October, and the winding road offers plenty of opportunities to pull over for pictures or a quiet walk along the creek. At the end of the road, Hardware Ranch provides an additional attraction: during the winter months, the area is home to a large herd of elk, but the scenery in fall is equally captivating.

Weber Canyon Scenic Drive

Weber Canyon, located just east of Ogden, follows the Weber River as it carves its way through a rugged canyon. This scenic drive is relatively short, but the views are no less impressive. The route along Interstate 84 offers easy access, making it an excellent option for those looking for a quick and scenic fall drive.

The surrounding hillsides are filled with trees that turn into a mosaic of fall colors, including bright oranges, yellows, and reds. A notable feature along the drive is Devil's Slide, a unique rock formation easily visible from the road. There are also several places to pull off and enjoy a picnic by the river.

Monte Cristo Scenic Drive

Monte Cristo Scenic Drive is a less-traveled route in northern Utah. However, it is perfect if you want a quiet route with less traffic and stunning fall beauty. This drive takes you from Huntsville through the Monte Cristo range, which rises to over 9,000 feet. The higher elevation means the colors peak earlier here than in the valleys, usually in late September.

The drive features wide open meadows filled with bright yellow aspens, rolling hills covered in orange and red, and expansive views of the surrounding Wasatch Range. As you descend into Woodruff, the landscape becomes more rugged, but the vibrant fall colors continue to make the drive memorable.

Monte Cristo Drive is great whether you want a mere drive or want to engage in other activities. You can get off the road to hike to Monte Cristo Peak or branch out to Ant Valley Road to head to Hardware Ranch Wildlife Management Area.

Conclusion

Northern Utah's canyons offer some of the most beautiful fall drives in the region. These routes are great whether you are looking for a quick day trip or a full weekend adventure. They provide an unforgettable way to enjoy Utah's fall foliage at its best.

That said, you need a car with front-wheel drive and all-weather tires to drive comfortably through these scenic drives in Utah's Nothern Canyons. Therefore, if you are looking to buy a new or used 4x4 but don't have enough cash to purchase it outright, consider taking out a low-interest auto loan.