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Logo of Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort featuring stylized text and a tree design.

Fall Leaf Peeping and East Zion Adventures 

As cooler temperatures make their way to Zion in fall, colorful autumn foliage will be close behind. Elevations within park boundaries vary from about 3,600 to 8,700 feet, so if you want to see the fall colors between mid September and early November, you're in for a treat!

If you're wondering what Zion is like in the fall, here's what you can typically expect:

Visiting Zion in Early September

A jeep parked on a rocky terrain surrounded by lush green trees and vast red canyons under a blue sky.

 

What to expect: September is a great time to visit Zion. Highest elevations may begin to show some color change but most foliage remains green.

What to do: Our Top of the World Jeep tour gives a birds-eye view of Zion's highest elevations. Cool down after your adventure in our two-tiered swimming pool. 

Mid-September

Three riders on horseback traverse a sandy trail through rugged canyon landscapes under a bright sky.What to expect: Trees at high elevations begin to change color.

 

What to do: Our White Mountain horseback tour combines a beautiful ride plus a fun slot canyon experience into one amazing adventure. There's no other tour like this in all of southern Utah and the scenery can't be beat! 

Late September

A person standing on a rock inside a narrow, vibrant orange canyon.

 

What to expect: Beginning of peak season.

What to do: We suggest a canyoneering adventure. We have six to choose from for adventurers of all skill levels. Relax later that evening with a stargazing night tour or enjoying the starry skies from the hot tub on the deck of your Zion Ponderosa vacation home

Visiting Zion in Early October

Aerial view of a vibrant forest showcasing a mix of green, orange, yellow, and red foliage.

 

What to expect: Fall colors peak in Zion National Park and at Zion Ponderosa in early October. 

What to do: October is the perfect time of year for the Brushy Cove Jeep Tour. As you ascend over 1500 feet, the views and the fall foliage are simply spectacular. 

Mid-October

image of rugged canyon cliffs under a cloudy sky.

 

What to expect: Higher elevations are past their peak but colors still abound at middle to lower elevations.

What to do: Conditions should still be favorable for the Brushy Cove Jeep Tour, depending on weather conditions. With weather cooling down and crowds thinning, this is a good time to hike Angels Landing. If you didn't score a permit in the lottery, East Zion Adventures' expert guides can take you on a guided adventure of one of Zion National Park's most iconic hikes!

Late October/Early November

A group of six hikers walks along a fallen log surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage.

 

As October melts into November, it's peak fall season in main Zion Canyon. This is a great time of year for hiking in the cooler temperatures. Here are some great family-friendly trails for catching the colors:

  • Riverside Walk
  • Emerald Pools Trail
  • Pa'rus Trail
  • Canyon Overlook Trail 

A tractor drives down a dirt path surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage.

The magic of late fall in Zion

Want to extend your leaf-peeping season? Visit Zion from mid-October to early November! Late fall is a great time for hiking without the heat. Don't forget to check out our seasonal specials