Fall in Utah County is an enchanting time, with vibrant foliage, cool breezes, and a variety of seasonal activities to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, festive events, or cozy culinary experiences, there’s something for everyone. Here are 19 fall activities to enjoy in Provo and Utah County.
1. Scenic Drives
- When: Late September to October
- Where: Alpine Loop, Nebo Loop, Provo Canyon, Hobble Creek Canyon, Spanish Fork Canyon, Highway 68
Enjoy the stunning fall colors by taking a scenic drive through Utah Valley’s canyons and mountain roads. The Alpine Loop and Nebo Loop are particularly renowned for their breathtaking views. These routes offer winding roads, vibrant leaves, and various spots to stop and enjoy the scenery. Pack a picnic, take your camera, and spend a day immersed in the natural beauty of fall.
2. Fall Scenic Lift Rides at Sundance Mountain Resort
- When: September to October
- Where: Sundance Mountain Resort
Experience the fall colors from above with a scenic lift ride at Sundance Mountain Resort. Ride up to Mandan Summit and take in the panoramic views of Mount Timpanogos and the changing foliage. For an added experience, continue up Red’s Lift to Bearclaw at Arrowhead Summit for lunch with a view. It’s a tranquil way to enjoy the beauty of autumn in the mountains.
3. Pick Sunflowers at the Sunflower Festival
- When: Late August to late September
- Where: Spanish Fork
Celebrate the transition from summer to fall at the Sunflower Festival in Spanish Fork. Wander through over 15 acres of sunflowers, perfect for picking and photos. The festival also includes family-friendly activities such as train rides, mini-golf, hayrides, and more. It’s a great way to soak up the last rays of summer while welcoming the fall season.
4. Pick Apples at Rowley’s Red Barn
- When: Late August to October
- Where: Santaquin
Head to Rowley’s Red Barn in Santaquin to pick your own apples directly from the orchard. The harvest season extends from late August through October, offering a variety of apple types. This activity is perfect for families and provides a wonderful opportunity to enjoy fresh, local produce. After picking, visit the barn store for delicious apple products like cider, slushes, and pies.
5. Make Your Own Fall Candle at Wick Lab
- When: September to November
- Where: Provo
Create your own custom fall-scented candle at the Wick Lab in Provo. Choose from a wide range of fragrances, including autumn-inspired scents, and craft a personalized candle to take home. This activity is perfect for a date night or family outing and provides a cozy memento to enjoy throughout the season.
6. Seasonal Restaurants
- When: September to November
- Where: Various locations in Utah County (Communal, Black Sheep, Foundry Grill at Sundance)
Enjoy fall-inspired dishes at local restaurants that feature seasonal ingredients. Spots like Communal, Black Sheep, and the Foundry Grill at Sundance offer menus that change to highlight the best of fall flavors, such as squash, apples, and pumpkins. Savor a warm meal that perfectly captures the essence of autumn.
7. Spooky Activities (Haunted Houses)
- When: October
- Where: Provo, Lehi, Spanish Fork
October is filled with spooky fun in Utah County. Visit haunted houses like the Haunted Forest or Strangling Brothers Haunted Circus for a thrilling experience. If you prefer something less scary, try family-friendly options like the Pumpkin Train on the Heber Valley Railroad or local city Halloween parties. There’s no shortage of ways to get your adrenaline pumping or enjoy some spooky fun.
8. Cornbelly’s (The Quintessential Fall Festival)
- When: Late September to Early November
- Where: Thanksgiving Point, Lehi; Spanish Fork
Cornbelly’s is the ultimate fall festival destination in Utah County, featuring over 90 attractions, including corn mazes, pumpkin patches, hayrides, and even a haunted area for older kids and adults. This family-friendly event is packed with fun activities for all ages and is a must-visit to celebrate fall.9
9. Football Tailgating & Game Day
- When: September to November
- Where: LaVell Edwards Stadium, Provo
Join in the excitement of football season by tailgating and attending a BYU football game. The atmosphere at LaVell Edwards Stadium is electric, and tailgating adds an extra layer of fun to the game day experience. Gather with friends and family, enjoy the festive spirit, and cheer on the Cougars!
10. Pumpkin Patches
- When: Late September to October
- Where: Hee Haw Farms (Pleasant Grove), Glen Ray’s Corn Maze (Spanish Fork), Wilkerson Farm (Orem), Jaker's Jack-O-Lanterns (Springville)
Visiting a pumpkin patch is a quintessential fall activity. Pick the perfect pumpkin at one of Utah County’s many patches, where you can also enjoy hayrides, corn mazes, and petting zoos. From giant pumpkins to small gourds, these patches offer a variety of choices for your fall decorating needs.
11. Corn Mazes
- When: Late September to October
- Where: Cornbelly’s (Lehi), Hee Haw Farms (Pleasant Grove), Glen Ray’s Corn Maze (Spanish Fork), Wilkerson Farm (Orem)
Challenge yourself to find your way through one of Utah County’s corn mazes. Cornbelly’s at Thanksgiving Point offers one of the most extensive corn mazes, complete with interactive challenges and nighttime experiences. Other local farms also provide fun and unique maze adventures suitable for all ages.
12. Heber Valley Railroad - Fall Scenic Train Ride
- When: September to October
- Where: Heber City
The Heber Valley Railroad, known as the "Heber Creeper," offers scenic train rides through the picturesque Provo Canyon during the fall. Enjoy the vibrant foliage and the peaceful journey, with special themed rides like the Pumpkin Train and the Wizard’s Train available for additional seasonal fun.
13. Roast Marshmallows Among the Fall Leaves in Provo Canyon
- When: September to October
- Where: Provo Canyon Parks (Big Springs Park, Vivian Park, South Fork Park)
Enjoy a classic autumn activity by roasting marshmallows in the mountains surrounded by fall colors. Provo Canyon parks like Big Springs Park and Vivian Park offer the perfect setting with fire pits and picnic areas. Gather your loved ones, enjoy the crisp air, and create warm memories around the fire.
14. Fall Farmers Markets
- When: June to October
- Where: Provo Farmers Market (600 W Center St, Provo), Lehi Farmers Market, Orem’s Sunset Farmers Market, Springville’s Sunset Farmers Market
Support local farmers and enjoy fresh, seasonal produce at Utah County’s farmers markets. The Provo Farmers Market, Lehi Farmers Market, and others offer a variety of fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and artisanal products. This is a great way to celebrate the harvest season and stock up on fall favorites.
15. 5 Best Pie Shops for Fall Pies
- When: September to November
- Where: Various locations in Utah Valley (The Pie Sisters, The Crust Club, Grapefruit & Thyme, The Dessert Collective)
Treat yourself to delicious fall pies from Utah Valley’s top pie shops. From classic flavors like apple and pumpkin to unique combinations like pistachio raspberry cream, there’s a pie for every taste. These local bakeries provide the perfect cozy dessert for any fall occasion.
16. Fall Hiking Trails
- When: September to November
- Where: Stewart Falls, Battle Creek Falls, Timpanogos Cave Trail, Grotto Trail, Lake Hardy Trail
Take advantage of the cooler temperatures and explore Utah County’s hiking trails. Trails like Stewart Falls and Battle Creek Falls offer stunning views of fall foliage, while others, like the Grotto Trail, provide a peaceful retreat into nature. Hiking is a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of the season and get some fresh air.
17. Visit Timpanogos Cave National Monument
- When: September to mid-October
- Where: American Fork Canyon
Visit Timpanogos Cave National Monument before it closes for the season in mid-October. The cooler fall weather makes the steep hike to the cave more enjoyable, and the cave itself provides a unique adventure. Explore the cave’s fascinating formations and learn about the geology and history of the area.
18. Fall Camping
- When: September to October
- Where: Whiting Campground (Maple Canyon), Lakeside RV Campground (Provo), Payson Lakes Campground (Nebo Loop)
Experience the beauty of fall up close by camping in Utah County’s scenic spots. With cooler temperatures and colorful foliage, fall camping offers a unique and cozy experience. Sites like Whiting Campground and Payson Lakes Campground are great choices for setting up a tent or parking an RV to enjoy the autumn nights.
19. Restaurants Open for Thanksgiving
- When: Thanksgiving Day
- Where: Gourmandise, Magleby's, La Jolla Groves & More
Skip the cooking this Thanksgiving and dine out at one of the local restaurants offering special Thanksgiving meals. Places like Slate at Provo Marriott, Magleby’s, and Rodizio Grill offer dine-in and take-out options with all the traditional fixings. Enjoy a stress-free holiday with delicious food and good company.
There’s no better way to embrace the beauty and fun of the fall season than by exploring these activities in Provo and Utah County. From scenic drives and outdoor adventures to festive events and seasonal dining, make the most of your autumn with these 19 exciting activities!
