Utah County is a great place to live for outdoor enthusiasts, students and families. With the first day of all fall right around the corner, there are several activities awaiting you! From traditional fall festivals to a scenic drive in the mountains, there are countless things to add to your fall bucket list this season.
1. The Great Outdoors
If you prefer the outdoors, taking a scenic drive or hike is the perfect way to enjoy the autumn weather and scenery. Located in the southern part of Utah County lies Nebo Loop. This 35-mile paved road is the perfect way to enjoy the 12,000-foot Mount Nebo and its diverse vegetation found along the scenic byway.
A second scenic drive in Utah County is the Alpine Loop, which begins at the base of Sundance Ski Resort in Provo, Utah and ends in American Fork Canyon. This scenic drive provides a wide difference in landscape from that found on the Nebo Loop. From towering cliff sides to beautiful pine trees, it won’t disappoint. This drive also provides access to Timpanogos Cave National Monument and Sundance Mountain Resort. For your planning purposes, please be aware that this loop is only open until late October each year.
These scenic drives provide spectators opportunities to enjoy picnic sites and hikes. Trails that lead from the road into the Mt. Timpanogos and Lone Peak Wilderness areas can be found along the Alpine Loop. As a tip, consider taking a light jacket for any sort of hike you may do.
2. The Gridiron
Nothing says fall like football. There are many citizens in Utah Valley who are avid football fanatics. BYU football games are a great way to involve the community and enjoy a fall weekend. Not a BYU fan? Consider looking at local sports events or community leagues, where you can participate yourself!
3. Fall Favorites
Who doesn’t enjoy traditional fall activities? Corn mazes, concerts, pumpkin patches, and harvest markets? Utah County has the perfect selection of activities for you or your family to enjoy during the fall. The Cornbelly’s festival, located at Thanksgiving Point in Lehi, is a local fall favorite. It has activities for all ages, ranging from haunted attractions for adults to corn mazes for the whole family.
If a harvest market is more your scene, consider checking out local markets. A local favorite is the annual Spanish Fork Farmer’s Market. Location on Main Street, this farmer’s market is famous for its fresh and seasonal fruit, vegetables and baked goods. Running from July 20th to November 5th, every Saturday, this market is a fun fall weekend activity.
In the mood for something a little more thrilling? Utah County has several haunted attractions to take part in late September through October. A local favorite, the Haunted Forest is a sure way to get your heart racing. From grueling zombies to terrifying clowns, this popular attraction is a great way to celebrate the fall and Halloween season!
4. Staying Active
Fall can be a perfect time for runners and cyclists to enjoy the cool, crisp air the season provides throughout the state of Utah. Spanning over 15 miles, the Provo River Parkway trail is a popular paved trail to enjoy a safe run, walk or bike ride. If the cool weather is keeping you from staying active, there are several recreation centers throughout Utah County that provide exercise equipment, indoor tracks, pools, and classes.