Fall Colors In Utah National Parks

Fall colors are fading in the Utah high country, but are moving toward perfection in lower elevations including spots in our national parks.

I drove the Nebo Loop today and enjoyed seeing colors in various stages. Down near the mouth of the canyon the foliage was vivid. Up on top, most aspen were naked. The two photos that illustrate this blog post were shot on today's trip.

Right now is one of the most spectacular times to visit our national parks, particularly Zion and Capitol Reef. Here's a rundown of current conditions.

In Zion National Park high country areas, colors have peaked. Mid elevations are ablaze right now and colors are just starting to turn at lower elevations, including Zion Canyon. The park provided this info:

“We've been getting quite a few questions about fall colors! ...Zion Canyon... leaves are starting to turn. Typically, fall colors peak in Zion Canyon around the first week of November.”

In the Capitol Reef area, lower slopes on Boulder Mountain are on fire with color. (Higher elevations have peaked.) The scenic drive, near the visitor center is beautiful right now. The park provided this info:

“Fall is here and we are winding down for the season. The visitor center hours are now 8:00 am - 5:00 pm. There are still many opportunities to enjoy your national park and now is a great time to visit as the Fremont cottonwoods and box elders approach peak fall color.”

Bryce Canyon is at a high elevation where colors have already peaked.

Arches has a fair number trees, mostly junipers and some pinesthat stay green year-round. Cottonwoods and brush along streams are coloring up nicely now.

In Canyonlands, riparian areas have brightly colored trees and brush. Many areas in Canyonlands look much the same regardless of the season.

-- Dave Webb