There’s nothing quite like fall in Davis County. As long summer days give way to crisp mountain air, the Wasatch Front comes alive with golden aspens, vibrant red maples, and rich shades of orange and yellow. Of course, all you really have to do is look up at our mountains to see autumn in full bloom right before your eyes!
We know there are plenty of places along the Wasatch Front to catch the changing foliage, but you don’t need to drive for hours deep into the backcountry. Sometimes you just need a quick afternoon or evening outing right in your own backyard. Whether you’re looking for a rugged canyon hike, a scenic mountain drive, or a smooth paved stroll with the kids, here are five of our favorite local spots to take in the fall colors before the leaves are gone!
Fall Foliage Quick Reference
| Trail | City | Trail Type | Dog Friendly? | Peak Colors |
| Fernwood Trail | Layton | Unpaved Dirt / Moderate | Yes (Leashed) | Late Sept – Early Oct |
| Farmington Canyon | Farmington | Scenic Drive | Yes (Leashed) | Mid Sept – Early Oct |
| Mueller Park Trail | Bountiful | Unpaved Dirt / Moderate | Yes (Leashed) | Mid Sept – Early Oct |
| Deuel Creek Trail | Centerville | Unpaved Dirt / Moderate | Yes (Leashed) | Late Sept – Early Oct |
| Lagoon Trail | Farmington | Paved / Easy | Yes (Leashed) | Early Oct – Mid Oct |
Fernwood Trail
Nestled high on the Layton bench, the Fernwood Trail offers sweeping views of the valley framed by fiery red scrub oaks and golden maples. Discover more and plan your trip here.
- Why Visit: You don’t have to hike far to enjoy the scenery. The base of the trail features a shaded picnic area surrounded by fall color, making it an ideal spot for a low-effort autumn lunch..
- Nearby Pairing: Before heading up the bench, grab a handcrafted latte and a warm Argentine pastry or empanada from Aconcagua Bakery on Main Street, or swing by Daily Rise Coffee on Antelope Drive for local Northern Utah-roasted espresso.
Farmington Canyon
Farmington Canyon offers two distinct ways to experience fall foliage, depending on your preferred pace.
- The Scenic Drive: Take the dirt road up toward Bountiful Peak for dramatic high-elevation foliage. Note: The upper road is narrow and unpaved; drive cautiously and yield to oncoming traffic.
- The Hike: Prefer to travel on foot? Follow the Farmington Creek Trail, which winds along the stream under a thick canopy of changing leaves, past historic ruins and small waterfalls.
- Nearby Pairing: After exploring the canyon, head down to historic Main Street in Farmington and warm up with a hot cocoa, specialty latte, or fresh crepe at Caffè Torino, a cozy local favorite.
Mueller Park Canyon & Trail
Mueller Park is one of the most popular trail systems in Davis County for hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers—and autumn is its prime season.
- Why Visit: The trail gently climbs through dense groves of maples and evergreens. Look up as you hike: the autumn sun filtering through the overhead canopy creates a natural stained-glass effect.
- Key Landmark: Hike 3.5 miles in (7 miles round-trip) to reach Elephant Rock for a panoramic vantage point over the vibrant canyon canopy.
- Nearby Pairing: After working up an appetite on the trail, head into Bountiful for brunch at Penny Ann’s Cafe. Grab a hot cup of coffee and a stack of their famous “hot cakes”
Deuel Creek Trail
Following a rushing stream up Centerville Canyon, Deuel Creek is a favorite autumn hike for families and trail enthusiasts. This fun trail actually has two trailheads you can start from that end up in the same place— a beautiful waterfall at the end of the canyon.
- Choose Your Trailhead:
- South Trailhead: The more kid-friendly option, offering easier footings and immediate shade.
- North Trailhead: Slightly rockier, converging with the South route about a mile in.
- Nearby Pairing: If you’re hiking early, grab a coffee or breakfast avocado toast at Daily Rise Coffee Centerville. Finishing up around dinnertime? Head over to Hug-Hes Cafe for their famous beer-battered fries and casual local comfort food.
Lagoon Trail
Short on time or pushing a stroller? The Lagoon Trail offers all the fall beauty without the steep incline or rocky terrain.
- Why Visit: This smooth, paved path loops around the perimeter of Lagoon Amusement Park and follows Haight Creek. If you visit during late September or October, you can catch the spooky seasonal ambiance of Lagoon’s Frightmares in the background!
- Nearby Pairing: Stop by Station Park for a wide variety of food options. Pair your crisp autumn stroll with a soup and gourmet sandwich at Plates & Palates, or grab a custom dirty soda from Fiiz for the walk.
Leaf-Peeping Tips for Davis County
- Elevation Matters: Canyon colors peak 1–2 weeks earlier than valley locations. If lower trails are still green, head up Farmington Canyon or upper Mueller Park.
- Leave No Trace: Stay on designated paths, pack out all trash, and keep pets leashed to protect these trail systems for seasons to come.
Have a favorite fall photo in Davis County? Tag us on Instagram at @DiscoverDavis or use #DiscoverDavis for a chance to be featured on our page!
We hope everyone has a wonderful fall season and gets out to see all the beauty our wonderful county has to offer! For more hiking recommendations head to our blog to read more about the best hiking trails in Davis County!
