The 4 best Northern utah fall photo spots!
Fall in Utah is short but spectacular. The aspen leaves turn golden, the oaks turn red, and you you can catch some truly magical color. I just with Autumn here lasted more than 3 weeks (sort of joking, mostly not). I've been taking families and couples to these spots for years, and they never disappoint…especially with some nice colorful leaves and crisp air. Here are 4 of my favorite fall color locations that work great for portraits!Tunnel Springs
Tunnel Springs Park in North Salt Lake is surprisingly good for fall! If you are looking for the most colorful trees, then this is not for you. The trees along the walking paths turn yellow and orange, but the star of the show here is the golden grasses and smaller crowds than in the summer. The open space and rolling hills give you nice separation from backgrounds. Best in mid to late October.
Big Springs Park
- Big Springs Park in Provo has some beautiful maples and cottonwoods that give you warm golden tones. The park is big enough that you can find pockets of color and still have grassy areas for big groups. It's also flat and accessible, which is great if you have little ones or grandparents joining the session. Usually peaks around the first week of October. This one is great all through October as well though.
Jordan Pines
- Jordan Pines up Big Cottonwood Canyon is one of those classic Utah fall spots. The aspens here are dense and when they turn it feels like you're surrounded by gold. The light filters through the leaves in the morning and it's just stunning. It also has a lot of evergreens, the mix between the golden aspens and green pines is lovely. It does get busy on weekends, so I usually recommend going early or on a weekday if you can swing it. Peak color is usually late September to early October depending on the year.
Trappers Loop
- Trappers Loop near Ogden is less known but absolutely worth the drive. You get mountain views, winding roads lined with aspens, and usually fewer people than the Cottonwood Canyons. The elevation gives you a slightly earlier peak, often late September. there are a few great spots along this road for photos. Snowbasin ski resort is also a quick detour from this route for an alternate spot!
Bonus mention: if you want something more adventurous, the Alpine Loop between American Fork Canyon and Provo Canyon is unbeatable, but it's also packed. I'd go with one of the spots above for a portrait session unless you really want that epic mountain backdrop and don't mind the crowds! To be fair though, anywhere in northern utah will have some crowds during peak fall color.
Fall color is unpredictable and it moves fast, so if you're thinking about a session this season reach out soon. I'll help you pick the right spot and timing so we catch the leaves at their best! YAY FOR FALL!!
