Autumn is spectacular in Utah. As leaves begin to turn, Davis County 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. 

Scarecrow Walk at the USU Botanical Center, 80 E. 725 South, Kaysville

Bring in the autumn season with an easy stroll through the Scarecrow Walk at the USU Botanical Center. This annual event brings the community together to celebrate the harvest season. Visitors walk through beautiful gardens to view the array of scarecrows crafted by individuals, schools and organizations. Each scarecrow is unique with themes ranging from traditional to humorous. 

Vibrant autumn colors in the Varga Arboretum are on full display this time of year and the peaceful surroundings capture the coziness of fall. The walk is about ¾ of a mile, along dirt and paved paths that are wheelchair and stroller accessible. The Scarecrow Walk runs Sept. 28 to Oct. 6, from dawn to dusk, and admission is free. Visit the calendar at extension.usu.edu for more info. 

Cross E Ranch Fall Festival, 3500 N. 2200 West, Salt Lake City

The Cross E Ranch Fall Festival is a tradition that embraces the spirit of the season in the heart of Salt Lake City. 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.

Pack Farms Pumpkin Patch, 1700 W. Glovers Lane, Farmington

Pack Farms is a must for fall activities, offering a perfect blend of family-friendly fun and seasonal traditions. Visitors can explore the sprawling patch to find the perfect pumpkins or get lost in the hay maze, a favorite challenge for kids and adults. The giant slide and pumpkin tetherball are popular attractions along with a variety of fall-themed games.

The Pack Farms pumpkin patch opens Sept. 28 and runs Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays have extended hours (closing at 11 p.m.) and the farm is closed on Sundays. Admission is $5 per person and free for kids 3 and under. Visit packfarms.com for additional information. 

Hike, drive or picnic in Farmington Canyon

In autumn, breathtaking fall colors are on full display in Davis County. Take a drive up Farmington Canyon to enjoy leaves at their peak. Find an overlook to stop and take in the views of the valley, and maybe pack a picnic lunch to enjoy the fall foliage.  

If hiking is your thing, a stroll along the Farmington Creek Trail will take you through beautiful trees, several stunning lookout areas and a gorgeous waterfall. Walking the Grotto in Hornet Canyon is a must for fall, with its waterfalls and weeping wall. The Robert N. Hasenyager Great Salt Lake Nature Trail in Farmington is another family-friendly walk that takes visitors past wetland areas and offers bird-watching opportunities. 

A Night on Antelope Island

The Cottages at Bridger Bay on Antelope Island provide a cozy fall getaway. Each cottage sleeps five or six people and includes a full-size refrigerator, a bathroom with a shower, a shade pavilion and a fire pit. Pets are also welcome. If camping in a tent is more your thing, several campgrounds on the island are available, with a range of amenities. 

Enjoy the island scenery with a hike or bike ride while watching the bison, deer, bighorn sheep, antelope and thousands of birds. Be sure to enjoy the night sky as Antelope Island has a Dark Sky designation. For more information, visit stateparks.utah.gov/parks/antelope-island.