It’s fall and we couldn’t be more excited. Autumn in Zion is in Zion is just incredible. Whether you’re hiking in the main canyon or canyoneering in the backcountry, you’re in for breathtaking colors that are perfectly complemented by Zion’s red sandstone. And let’s not forget how pleasant Zion National Park is with autumn’s cooler temps and smaller crowds. Check one or all of these East Zion Adventures off your fall bucket list and experience the magic for yourself.

1. Explore Zion National Park

Drive the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive or explore the trails on foot to see East Zion’s fall colors up close. With crowds thinning out and cooler temperatures prevailing, this is one of the best times of year to get out and explore Zion National Park.

2. Choose the trail less traveled

While it’s great to hike Angels Landing and The Narrows, there are other trails inside Zion National Park that fewer people ever experience. If you’re looking for hikes to beat the crowds, try The Watchman Trail, Hidden Canyon, or Taylor Creek in Kolob Canyon. Don’t forget that we offer guided hikes all over Zion, customizable to your ability level and schedule.

3. Hike through the autumn leaves

Or go trail running across Zion Ponderosa’s 4,000 private acres. Hit the trails to Cable Mountain or Observation Point across Zion Ponderosa’s 4,000 forested acres. It’s a great way to work off the Halloween candy and Thanksgiving desserts.

4. Canyoneering adventures

Exploring the Zion area slot canyons is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. See the canyon glow for yourself and enjoy views for days. Guided canyoneering adventures are just the thrill you’ve been wanting to add to your Zion itinerary, and East Zion Adventures guides are committed to making sure you’re safe and stoked every step of the way.

5. Guided Jeep tours

Off the clock, off grid, and off road. East Zion Adventures offers six unique jeep tours to check off your fall bucket list. You pick the one that speaks to you, we’ll provide the wheels, an expert guide and, of course, the snacks.

6. Head out on horseback

Listen to the autumn leaves crunch softly as you clip-clop on horseback along the quiet, beautiful trails. East Zion is home to the most scenic riding trails in the west. With three guided trail rides to choose from, you’ll be able to √ this off your fall bucket list with pleasure.

7. Hike or Jeep to Jolley Gulch

Fall also means Halloween, so here’s a spooky adventure to check off your fall bucket list. Legend says that Jolley Gulch is haunted – are you brave enough to hike through the ponderosa pine forest, past the abandoned Jolley cabin to the overlook? Maybe a haunted Jeep ride is more up your alley. Either way, ask to hear the spine-tingling tale that inspired the rumor or read about it here.

8. Open up to new adventures

If you’re just hanging out around Zion Ponderosa and looking for some quick activities, we’ve got those too! Check out our zip line, climbing wall, paintball course, shooting range, mini-golf course and more.

9. Take a day trip to Cedar Breaks

Located in the beautiful Dixie National Forest and less than an hour and a half from Zion Ponderosa, Cedar Breaks National Monument is a fun day trip from Zion that shouldn’t be missed. Cedar Breaks is the lesser known little brother of Bryce Canyon, but just as spectacular. Winter comes early to Cedar Breaks National Monument, so visit before mid-October.

10. Host your annual family reunion.

Beat the summer heat by gathering with family over fall break or Thanksgiving break. But instead of spreading out across different hotel rooms (or worse, different hotels), gather under one roof in a luxury Zion vacation home. There’s plenty of space so everyone can retreat for a little peace and quiet while still enjoying family reunion time and adventures together.

For help planning your Zion fall vacation, click here.