Person on a fall hike in Utah's Little Cottonwood Canyon

With its combination of vibrant foliage, crisp weather, and fun autumn events, fall is one of the most special seasons in Utah. Travel to the mountain towns of Alta and Snowbird and experience the magic of the season with Canyon Services. Reserve one of our vacation rentals in the mountains and experience fun for the whole family just 30 miles from Salt Lake City. 

Whether you want to join one of the best Oktoberfest celebrations in the country or see vibrant foliage from the trails, there are fall activities for everyone in our Utah mountain towns. 

1. Attend Snowbird Oktoberfest

Put on your lederhosen and head to Snowbird for the annual Oktoberfest celebration from early August to mid-October. Sample your favorite German beer and specialty beers made by local Utah breweries. Pair your drink with German specialties like bratwurst, weisswurst, sauerkraut, apple strudel, and pretzels. Walk around the grounds and enjoy the sounds of live music, and browse handcrafted items from over 40 local vendors. Purchase tickets for Oktoberfest and join the festivities!

2. Fall Foliage Hikes

Immerse yourself in the vibrant fall foliage of the Wasatch Mountains on the hiking trails near Alta and Snowbird. Find trails for every skill level at Snowbird Resort and breathe in the crisp mountain air as you enjoy panoramic views of Salt Lake Valley. Discover even more breathtaking fall hikes within Little Cottonwood Canyon. The fall foliage season varies from year to year, but generally peaks around mid-September to early October. 

3. Scenic Tram Ride

See fall foliage from a new perspective on a scenic tram ride at Snowbird. Tram rides are open till mid-October, and take you 1.6 miles up the mountain to the top of Hidden Peak. Take in panoramic views of Salt Lake Valley, Twin Peaks, and Mt. Baldy. Once you have arrived at the top, we recommend stopping for drinks and food at The Summit–Utah’s highest restaurant!

4. Scenic Drives

Embark on a scenic drive and experience leaf-peeping from the comfort of your car. Take a back road from Salt Lake City or start driving from your Canyon Services vacation rental along the Little Cottonwood Canyon Scenic Drive. You may even spot some local wildlife along the way!

5. Fishing

Fall is one of the best seasons for fishing in Utah. Bring your fishing gear and cast your line at the lakes in the Albion Basin near Alta. Access Lake Mary, Lake Martha, or Lake Catherine from the Catherine Pass Trailhead and target brook and lake trout. 

Plan Your Fall Vacation in Utah’s Little Cottonwood Canyon

Travel to Alta and Snowbird this fall and spend your time enjoying activities like hiking, scenic driving, fishing, and celebrating Oktoberfest. Book your Utah fall getaway at Canyon Services and stay close to the attractions of both resorts. Spend quality time with your loved ones in our vacation homes, and enjoy amenities like fully equipped kitchens, washers and dryers, cozy fireplaces, and hot tubs. With homes ranging from two to five bedrooms, we offer rentals to suit groups of all sizes. Book with us today!