Autumn is spectacular in Utah. As leaves begin to turn, the Wasatch Front transforms into a colorful playground. Whether you’re enjoying an evening in the canyons, attending local harvest festivals or feasting on delicious fall fare, these five experiences will help create long-lasting memories for the season. 

Dinner and a hike at Storm Mountain, Big Cottonwood Canyon

Located three miles up Big Cottonwood Canyon, Storm Mountain is picturesque in the autumn with its towering granite cliffs, vibrant trees and the soothing sounds of Big Cottonwood Creek. Storm Mountain is perfect for an easy hike through colorful foliage, taking in the breathtaking views of the canyon. It’s also a fun place for roasting hot dogs, making s’mores and telling ghost stories around the campfire. 

Kids of all ages like to play at the historic stone amphitheater and compete in a game of horseshoes. Flush toilets are available but guests must bring drinking water. Because Storm Mountain is located in a watershed, no pets are allowed. Picnic areas can be reserved for $22 which includes tables and a fire pit. Make reservations at Recreation.gov. 

Witchfest at Gardner Village, 1100 W. 7800 South

Clean out your cauldron because Witchfest at Gardner Village is celebrating its 24th anniversary with more spooky activities than ever before. This bewitching fall celebration brings the magic of Halloween to historic Gardner Village with activities including breakfast with a witch, a creepy tribute to Edgar Allan Poe at Mystique Dining, the Witches of Mystic Manor escape room and the popular witch displays and scavenger hunt. 

Witchfest runs from Sept. 20 through Oct. 31, Monday through Saturday. Admission is free but there are parking fees on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Visit gardnervillage.com/witch-fest for more information.

Cross E Ranch Fall Festival, 3500 N. 2200 West

The Cross E Ranch Fall Festival is a tradition that embraces the spirit of the season in the heart of Salt Lake County. Set on a picturesque, working ranch, the festival offers an array of activities for all ages. Visitors can explore the sprawling corn maze, pick the perfect pumpkin or take a scenic hayride. From the petting zoo to the delicious farm-fresh treats, the Cross E Ranch Fall Festival is a celebration of all things autumn, offering an authentic taste of rural life.

Visitor favorites include the pig races, mega slides and pony rides. The festival runs Sept. 22-Oct. 30 (closed Sundays). Tickets must be purchased online at crosseranch.com.

The Kinlands Pumpkin Patch, 11887 S. 4000 West

The Kinlands Pumpkin Patch is a fall destination set at a beautiful working farm. Visitors can immerse themselves in the simple joys of autumn while selecting the perfect pumpkin for Halloween. With pumpkins in white, green and orange, everyone can find their favorite. 

Explore the area by visiting with farm animals, taking in the colors of the season and playing on the swings. The Shoppe is a place to find autumn-based products including dried flowers, natural home products, syrups and sauces, body creams and lotions, fall gifts or delicious cocktail mixers. 

The Kinlands Pumpkin Patch is open seven days a week, from Sept. 20 through Oct. 31. For information, visit thekinlands.com.

Wheeler Farm Pumpkin Days, 6351 S. 900 East

Wheeler Historic Farm is the setting for a popular fall tradition; selecting a Halloween pumpkin from the farm’s patch. The patch offers pumpkins in all shapes and sizes, perfect for carving, decorating, or enjoying as a seasonal display. Located in the north parking lot, pumpkins can be found for as little as $3. 

Take a wagon ride or walk the trails through the 75-acre farm and visit The Country Store. The playground is perfect for letting kids play in the autumn sunshine and enjoy visiting the goats, cows, horses, sheep and chickens. 

Wheeler Farm is open every day, from dusk to dawn. Admission to the farm is free. Pumpkin Days runs from Sept. 22-Oct. 21. Learn more at slco.org/wheeler-farm.