Hiking treasures abound in Greater Zion, and the “ber” months offer the best time to explore on foot.
Comfortable temperatures and clear skies are excellent fall hiking conditions for traversing dunes, lava flows, and dramatic candy-striped canyons that will take your breath away. From short, scenic walks to challenging backcountry treks, the variety of landscapes means you’ll need to hike more than one trail to immerse yourself in all that Greater Zion has to offer.
Extend your stay, lace up your boots, and get ready for vibrant fall colors, crisp air, and golden light on a few of the best hikes in Greater Zion
EASY HIKES
Canyon Overlook Trail
- Location: Zion National Park
- Length: 1 mile (1.6 km) round trip
- Duration: 1-2 hours.
- Type: Out-and-back.
Looking for a fun hike with stunning views of fall colors? The Canyon Overlook Trail in Zion National Park offers amazing vistas without the need for a permit. Peak fall colors typically occur between mid-October and early November, but this timing can vary depending on temperature and moisture patterns. This trail is accessible for more casual hikers and provides a variety of scenic overlooks, each offering a different perspective of the stunning park landscape. It’s perfect for families or anyone who wants to experience the park’s beauty. This hike does have some bridges that hug the curvature of the stone wall. So be prepared to NOT look down if heights make you nervous.
Johnson Canyon Trail
- Location: Snow Canyon State Park
- Length: 1.8 miles (2.9 km)
- Duration: 1 hour
- Type: Out-and-back
In fall, the Johnson Canyon Trail transforms into a kaleidoscope of color against its red rock backdrop. Cottonwoods and willows lining the stream bed turn brilliant shades of gold and amber, creating a striking contrast with the black lava flows and sandstone walls. Cooler temperatures make the hike especially pleasant, and the crisp air enhances the sense of peace and reflection this canyon inspires. When you enter the canyon, you might hear a little spring if there’s been enough rain. Stroll a bit further and look up to see a magnificent 200-foot arch.
This is one of Snow Canyon State Park’s many beautiful hikes. If you have time, add one of the short family-friendly hikes like Jenny’s Canyon to the itinerary; kids especially love playing with the moqui marbles on the Petrified Dunes. A quick stop in the park’s visitor center will help you learn more about the area.
Timing Tip
Zion National Park’s higher elevations, like Kolob Terrace Road, tend to peak a bit earlier than Zion Canyon.
Northgate Peaks Trail
- Location: Virgin, Utah
- Length: 4.2 miles (6.8 km) round trip
- Duration: 3 hours
- Type: Out-and-back
The Northgate Peaks Trail in Zion National Park’s Kolob Terrace offers crisp mountain air, colorful autumn scenery, and a peaceful, family-friendly hike. From the Wildcat Canyon Trailhead, the 2 – 3-hour round trip winds through meadows dotted with late-season wildflowers and pine-shaded woodlands. The trail heads south toward East and West Northgate Peaks, framed by sandstone cliffs and volcanic boulders, with sweeping views across the Kolob Plateaus.
At the overlook, take in dramatic vistas of North Guardian Angel, rugged canyons, and the Subway below. For adventurous hikers, scrambling up the peaks adds a challenge, though proper gear is essential. Perfect for enjoying fall colors and high-country scenery, this trail is a seasonal gem in Greater Zion’s treasure chest.
MODERATE HIKES
Tempi’Po’op Trail at Anasazi Valley
- Location: Santa Clara, Utah
- Length: 3.5 Miles (5.63 km)
- Duration: 2- 3 hours
- Type: Loop
The Tempi’po’op Trail is a must-visit for history buffs. Tempi’po’op (pronounced tumpee poo oop) means “rock writing” in Southern Paiute. This trail is famous for its petroglyphs, offering a firsthand look at the area’s rich history. As you walk along, you’ll be transported back in time by the ancient rock carvings. It’s a unique and educational experience that highlights the indigenous heritage of Greater Zion. Some of the original dwellings have even been preserved, and signs provide information about the petroglyphs and dwellings.
Keep in mind that there’s no shade, so pack plenty of water and wear sun protection. Fall can still be warm in southwest Utah. The first portion of the trail to the Ancestral Pueblo farmstead is relatively gentle and constructed to ABA/ADA outdoor design standards with hard-packed surfaces and mild grades, making it accessible to wheelchairs and strollers. Beyond that, the trail requires more effort in climbs over slickrock and sandy terrain to reach stunning petroglyph panels and panoramic views of the Santa Clara River Valley.
Pro Tip
Hiking in Southwest Utah shouldn’t be taken lightly. Prepare with maps and GPS devices, bring plenty of water, and dress in layers to adapt to cooler mornings and warmer afternoons.
Taylor Creek Trail
- Location: Kolob Canyons Road
- Length: 5.1 miles (8.21 km) round trip
- Duration: 3 – 4 hours
- Type: Out and Back
For a stunning display of fall colors, the Taylor Creek Trail in Kolob Canyon is a must-hike. This moderate trail winds through a shaded canyon lined with cottonwoods, maples, and oaks that burst into vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold during autumn. As you follow the creek, the crisp air and colorful foliage create a peaceful escape framed by towering red cliffs. Along the way, you’ll pass historic homestead cabins, adding a glimpse into the past amidst the beauty of the season. The trail offers a perfect blend of history and natural wonder.
Three Falls Trail
- Location: Hurricane, Utah
- Length: 3 Miles (4.83 km) round trip
- Duration: 1.5 – 2.5 hours
- Type: Out and back
For adventure seekers, the Three Falls Trail in Hurricane is a hidden gem. This rugged path winds through a dramatic desert canyon, guiding you past three towering dry waterfalls carved deep into the sandstone. Along the way, the trail weaves through riparian corridors where cottonwoods, willows, and seasonal wildflowers contrast beautifully with the red rock walls. Keep in mind that the route is rocky and exposed; it requires a bit of scrambling. Wear sturdy shoes, pack plenty of water, and wear a hat.
As the trail climbs, your effort is rewarded with sweeping views of the Hurricane Valley and Pine Valley Mountains, along with opportunities to spot wildlife like lizards, jackrabbits, and a variety of birds. It’s a hike that blends striking desert geology with surprising pockets of greenery, offering a unique look at the rugged beauty of Greater Zion.
STRENUOUS HIKES
The following recommendations are for experienced hikers. Each hike will require research, physical preparation, and appropriate gear. Please do not attempt without a skilled hiker in your party.
Kolob Arch
- Location: Kolob Canyon
- Length: 14 miles (22.53 km) round trip
- Duration: 7-9 Hours
- Type: Out and back
Discover Kolob Arch, one of the world’s largest natural arches, on a hike through Kolob Canyon. The La Verkin Creek Trail takes you through serene wilderness, across Timber Creek, and along scenic canyons to a viewpoint where the massive 287-foot span of Kolob Arch dominates the horizon. While you can’t walk beneath it, the view from the trail is unforgettable. You can complete this hike in one day; however, it is also a great fall backpacking option. It is a challenging but rewarding trail through canyons lined with cottonwoods that show bright yellow in October.
Red Mountain Trail (Full Hike)
- Location: Ivins, Utah
- Length: 16 miles (25.75 km) if you don’t coordinate a drop-off vehicle
- Duration: 4 – 6 hours
- Type: Out and back
For experienced hikers, the Red Mountain Trail is an adventurous option. Winding through desert junipers, rocky paths, and sandy stretches, this trail showcases unique vantage points of Snow Canyon and West Canyon. Along the way, you’ll see sweeping views of multicolored rock formations, rugged canyons, and the expansive wilderness of the Red Mountain area.
While parts of the trail are exposed and challenging, the journey rewards you with unforgettable scenery and a true sense of Greater Zion’s backcountry. A good topographical map and/or GPS will be helpful, if not essential, because there are few, if any, signs, no official trail, and numerous user tracks that often lead to nowhere. Whether you’re tackling a long day hike or a backpacking adventure, the Red Mountain Trail offers an immersive experience for skilled hikers looking to connect with the high-desert landscape and the natural wonders of Greater Zion.
One Hike is Never Enough
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual explorer, Southwest Utah offers a variety of trails that cater to all levels of experience. Plan for a few days to explore some local favorites and experience the unique beauty of Greater Zion.
Content features insight from BRAD BUHANAN. He is a native of Southern Utah. When he’s not working at Tech Ridge Development, building the future of tech in Southern Utah, he’s out experiencing breathtaking beauty.