Whether your summer vacation plans were put on hold or you’re just looking for the perfect destination for a getaway this fall, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Southern Utah.

While most people think of New England when they think of fall vacations, Utah is no less beautiful this time of year. The stunning colors of the changing leaves are only enhanced by the red rock cliffs and incredible backdrops they’re set against. If you’re ready to get away this season, keep reading to learn why fall might just be the best season to visit Southern Utah.

Temperatures Have Cooled

It’s not abnormal for temperatures to reach triple digits in Southern Utah in the middle of the summer. Zion National Park, in particular, is known for being a hot destination during the popular tourist season. This can make hiking to the top of Angels Landing or even waiting in line for the shuttle a drag.

Fall brings some welcome relief to the region. By September, the average daily high has dropped to 79 degrees Fahrenheit. In October, the daily average high is 66 degrees Fahrenheit, and by November, it’s 53 degrees. The cooler temperatures are great for enjoying some longer hikes, but not so cold that you’ll find yourself bundling up to spend time outdoors. 

Plus, chilly fall mornings are perfect for enjoying a hot cup of coffee on your rental’s patio. Overnight temperatures can dip even cooler though, so be sure to bring a jacket or sweater for sitting outside on your deck at night to take in the stars!

Crowds Have Thinned

This summer in particular brought some record-breaking crowds to Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks. While Zion’s massive size does make it possible to get away from the crowded hot spots and still enjoy the park no matter the season, lines did form at the shuttle stops and at popular trailheads.

But now, school is back in session for many kids. Families are getting back into routines, and most adults are headed back to the office. While visitors may still flock to the park on weekends or around the holidays this fall, for the most part, this season is a great time to visit Zion and other local attractions without the summer crowds.

Whether you’re dreaming of hiking The Narrows or just want to take a relaxing ride into the park and maybe stop off at the Visitor Center or some other spots to take photos, this is a great time to do so. While the winter months see the fewest number of visitors to the area, fall is a good time to skip the lines while still enjoying great weather for hiking and other outdoor activities.

Color Has Arrived

Southern Utah is home to some beautiful desert landscapes. But what many summer visitors don’t realize is that the area does experience all four seasons.

After the heat of the summer subsides, many of the native trees in the region do begin to prepare for the colder months. This means that their leaves turn from green to a variety of shades of orange, yellow, and red. The region’s cottonwood trees, in particular, come alive in the fall in a vibrant display of bold yellow. This color is even more stunning when you see it against a backdrop of brilliant red rock cliffs.

Southern Utah features many different elevations. This means that different areas will experience fall colors at different times throughout the season. So if you don’t see a lot of color from the start during your visit, take a nice scenic drive and you might just get lucky!

There’s No Shortage of Activities to Enjoy

While the tourist season may be coming to a close, you won’t have to worry about running out of things to do. From off-road rentals to hiking to a variety of dining and shopping options, you can still enjoy every activity that you would during the summer season.

Even though the temperatures are cooler, you should still prepare yourself if you plan to do any hiking. Pack plenty of water, and give yourself breaks to cool down during a steep climb.

Planning a Fall Visit to Southern Utah and Watchman Villas

Hundreds of thousands of visitors make their way to Southern Utah each summer. Whether you didn’t have a chance to visit this summer or want to enjoy the region with fewer crowds and cooler temps, fall is the perfect time to plan a vacation. Book your stay at Watchman Villas and you’ll find yourself right in the middle of the action—and the stunning fall colors!