Top 7 Fall Hikes Near St. George & Zion National Park

Experience Southern Utah’s fall magic across landscapes ranging from volcanic lava
flows to towering canyons. These seven hikes—spanning beginner to
advanced—highlight the best of both St. George hiking and Zion National Park
adventures:

1. Lava Flow Trail (Beginner | Snow Canyon State Park)
 

Distance: ~2.3 miles round-trip
Enjoy a family-friendly stroll through cooled lava flows with access to lava tubes. Bring a
headlamp for underground exploration.

2. Scout Cave Trail (Beginner–Moderate | Snow Canyon / near St. George)
 

Distance: ~3.6 miles round-trip
This moderate trail winds across lava fields and streambeds to a scenic sandstone
cave. A fun excursion for families and beginners pushing their limits.

3. Petrified Dunes / Butterfly Loop (Beginner | Snow Canyon)
 

Distance: ~2.9-mile loop
Traverse petrified sand dunes, lava tube overlooks, and red-rock landscapes via this
scenic and engaging loop—perfect for a crisp fall morning.

4. Middle Fork – Kolob Canyon Trail (Moderate | Zion – Kolob Region)
 

Distance: ~5 miles round-trip, ~700 ft gain
Escape the crowds along this quiet, red-rocked canyon trail dotted with historic cabins
and shaded under towering cliffs.

5. Canyon Overlook Trail (Moderate | Zion Canyon)
 

Distance: ~1 mile round-trip, ~150–200 ft gain
Short but rewarding, this trail offers sweeping views over Zion Canyon—ideal for hikers
craving dramatic scenery with minimal effort.

6. Angels Landing (Advanced | Zion Canyon)
 

Distance: ~5 miles round-trip, ~1,500–1,800 ft gain
Not for the faint of heart, this legendary hike features steep switchbacks (“Walter’s
Wiggles”) and a narrow, chain-assisted ridge to a 360° summit view. Permits are
required due to high demand.

7. The Narrows (Advanced | Zion Canyon)
 

Distance: 9.4 miles (bottom-up) or up to 16 miles (top-down); minimal elevation gain
Venture into the river carved by towering sandstone walls. This unique canyon hike
involves wading or swimming through the Virgin River—permit required for top-down
routes. Safety gear and waterproof footwear are a must.

Why These Trails Shine in Fall
 

• Ideal Weather & Color: Fall brings cooler temperatures, clear skies, and rich
  autumn tones across the red and white landscape.
   
• Calmer Trails: Post-summer, popular destinations are less crowded—giving you
  more space and serenity.
   
• Perfect Hiking Conditions: Water levels and heat are more manageable; just
  remain cautious in canyon and river settings during unpredictable weather.
   

Pro Tips for Fall Hikers
 

• Start Early: Capture golden light and beat the trail crowds.
   
• Footwear Matters: Waterproof boots for The Narrows; solid grip for rocky routes
  like Angels Landing.
   
• Permits & Planning: Necessary for Angels Landing and top-down Narrows.
  Apply early. Business InsiderWikipedia
• Layer Smart: Cool mornings can turn warm—layer for flexibility.
   
• Safety First: Be aware of flash flood risks in canyons, especially during sudden
  weather shifts.

Final Thought
 

This fall, whether you're meandering through lava fields near St. George, chasing views
atop Zion’s cliffs, or wading through a river in a slot canyon—these seven hikes provide
a diverse and unforgettable adventure tailored to every skill level. Want to add GPX
downloads, interactive trail maps, or a printable “Trail Readiness Checklist”? Just say
the word!