Visiting Zion National Park in the Fall
Fall in Zion National Park is pure magic. With crisp mornings, golden cottonwoods and the way the late afternoon light sets the cliffs on fire - it’s a season that invites you to slow down, to breathe deeply and to connect with the land. Whether you’re coming for the vibrant colors or the quieter trails, autumn is one of the best times to visit.
Here’s how to spend a perfect fall day in Zion, blending adventure, with good food, great views and the yoga class of a lifetime.
BREAKFAST: BONRUE BAKERY
Stop by Bonrue Bakery on your way into the park to grab a selection of amazing pastries and a coffee to take along on your morning hike. This local spot has blown up in recent years, and for good reason. My personal favorite is their triple baked almond croissant.
SUNRISE: HIKE CANYON OVERLOOK
Load your pastries in your backpack and head to Canyon Overlook for sunrise. This short but rewarding trail offers one of the most breathtaking sunrise views in Zion. As the first light spills into the canyon, watch as the sandstone cliffs glow in shades of pink and gold, with golden cottonwoods glowing in the canyon below. It’s a peaceful way to connect with nature before the crowds arrive, and to enjoy breakfast with a view. After your hike, finish driving the scenic East Canyon of Zion for more Fall colors, epic views and a mile long tunnel through the cliffs that was built in the 1930’s.
LATE MORNING: STROLL THE PA’RUS TRAIL
By mid-morning, head to Pa’rus Trail for a gentle and scenic walk by the river, where the cottonwoods turn brilliant shades of yellow and gold in October and November. The sound of the river, paired with the rustling leaves, makes this a peaceful stroll through the park.
LUNCH: WHIPTAIL GRILL
For a flavorful midday stop, head to Whiptail Grill in Springdale. Their Chile Relleno is an absolute must-try - probably my favorite meal in Springdale. It’s breaded, stuffed with goat cheese and surrounded with house made sauces that will blow your mind. The casual, friendly atmosphere makes it an easy spot to relax and soak in the small-town charm of Springdale.
AFTERNOON: COSMIC FLOW YOGA
After lunch, slow down and center yourself with a Cosmic Flow Yoga session. Held with Zion’s towering cliffs as your backdrop, this practice blends breathwork, meditation, sound healing and movement, leaving you refreshed, empowered and ready to take on the world leading with your heart. Cosmic Flow is not your average yoga class.
SUNSET: DRIVE TO KOLOB RESERVOIR
As the afternoon winds down, take the scenic drive up Kolob Terrace Road. This lesser-traveled route climbs out of the canyon into high-country meadows and aspen groves. In the fall, the aspens shimmer gold against the red rock cliffs. It’s a completely different side of Zion that many visitors miss. The road takes you to Kolob Reservoir, a peaceful alpine lake that reflects the fiery sunsets of autumn. It’s the perfect way to end your day, with fewer crowds and expansive, soul-stirring views.
DINNER: BLACK SAGE
End your perfect fall day with dinner at Black Sage, one of Zion’s standout restaurants. Their menu focuses on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients with dishes that are both creative and comforting. Whether you choose a perfectly cooked steak, fresh fish or one of their vegetarian specials, each plate is thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented. The warm, inviting atmosphere and attentive service make it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of hiking, yoga and scenic drives.