Experience the Best of Fall at Utah State Parks

Fall is the perfect time to explore Utah State Parks. With the vibrant colors of changing leaves and the crisp, refreshing air, the parks come alive in a whole new way. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, there’s something for everyone this season.

From scenic hikes through colorful forests to cozy campfire nights, Utah’s state parks offer plenty of ways to enjoy autumn. Take a moonlit hike, join a ghost tour, or experience one of the many other exciting events happening at parks across the state.

We’ve compiled a guide to this season’s top activities, events and must-see locations. Be sure to check back for updates as the season unfolds.

Start planning your autumn adventure today:

AUTUMN FUN
DARK SKY
HIDDEN GEMS
OUTDOOR ESCAPES
OFF THE BEATEN PATH
AUTUMN SAFETY

AUTUMN FUN

Ghosts of Camp Floyd
Camp Floyd State Park Museum
October 5, 11 & 26 – 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Is Camp Floyd haunted? The public is invited to participate in a paranormal investigation of Camp Floyd. 

Participants are encouraged to explore the museums at Camp Floyd during daylight starting at 6:00 PM, with the event beginning at 7:00 PM. The investigation will conclude at 9:00 PM. Participants are also encouraged to bring their own flashlights, recorders, cameras, and digital or infrared equipment. Park staff will assist in using the equipment to find paranormal orbs, mists, and sounds.

A brief presentation will familiarize participants with paranormal investigation techniques and findings as the event begins. All participants will be invited to present their findings at the conclusion of the investigation and will have the opportunity to view photographs and other paranormal evidence gathered at this historic site.

• Each date is limited to 40 participants
• Admission fees are $10 per person
• Reservations are required

For more information, please call (801) 768-8932 or email campfloyd@utah.gov. 

Reserve Your Spot Here:

Saturday, October 5
Friday, October 11
Saturday, October 26

Little Haunts
This is the Place Heritage Park
October 11, 12, 18, 19, 25 and 26

It’s not scary at the Park during the day, so put on your costumes and come to the Village for a fun-filled, family-friendly Halloween celebration!

Enjoy visiting the Story Telling Witch, trick-or-treating, getting up close with creepy crawlies at Creature Encounters, and participating in all of the Park’s daily activities, such as train rides, the petting coral, pony rides, take-home crafts, and so much more. Make it part of your family’s Halloween tradition.

Admission:

• $18.95/adults
• $16.95/seniors (65+)
• $14.95/children (3-11)
• Free/children (2 and under)

For more information, call 801.883.8700.
Purchase Little Haunts admission

Haunted Homestead
Frontier Homestead State Park Museum
October 17 – 5:30 PM

Experience spooky fun for the whole family at Haunted Homestead! Enjoy cemetery tours, a haunted house, games, and more activities. Admission is $4 per person or $20 per family.

Be sure to check with us for each day’s offerings. Cemetery tours are available October 22 through 24.

2024 Annual Bison Roundup
Antelope Island State Park
October 26 – 10:00 AM

Spectators, come and witness over 200 riders on horseback as they round up the island’s 750 bison during the annual bison roundup. This event is a crucial part of both bison and island management.

Park Impacts: Increased traffic on roadways. All trails except Buffalo Point, Ladyfinger Point, and Lakeside Loop will be closed.

Roundup Watch Party / Exposition
Join us in White Rock Bay starting at 10:00 AM to watch the team of riders make the final push, leading the bison into the corrals. We’ll have food, games, and fun activities for families. Please bring cash, as some vendors may not be able to accept credit.

Vendors, community partners, and anyone with questions should contact tackley@utah.gov.

Skulls and Bones Table
Goblin Valley State Park
October 26 – 12:00 PM

Get into the Halloween spirit with a visit to the Skulls and Bones Table! Join a ranger at the observation point to check out some spooky bones and learn about the fascinating wildlife of Goblin Valley. Perfect for curious minds of all ages!

Spooky Junior Rangers
Snow Canyon State Park
October 26 – 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM

Bats, spiders, and all things creepy! Come to the Campground Picnic Area in your favorite costume and learn about some of the spookiest critters that call Snow Canyon home. Perfect for young adventurers!

Registration required. Space is limited. Program registration is held two days prior to the event. Register by phone or in person. For more information or to register for a program, contact park staff at the Snow Canyon Visitor Center: (435) 628-2255.

Shadows of the Past Candlelight Tour
Territorial Statehouse State Park Museum
October 26

At this annual event, travel through the historic Territorial Statehouse in the dark with only a candle to guide you, stopping in each room for a unique history lesson.

Park activities include a glow-in-the-dark ground maze, lawn bowling, and more!

Admission Prices:

• Candlelight tour only: $1 per person
• Candlelight tour and park activities: 2-11 years old: $3; 12 years and older: $5; or $20 per household

Working of the Bison
Antelope Island State Park
October 29-31

Join us at the bison corrals for an up-close (and safe) opportunity to see bison and learn about how and why they are managed.

Educators and Group Organizers: Group tours must be scheduled in advance and cannot be guaranteed otherwise. Please contact tackley@utah.gov for more information.

Park Impacts: None

Creepy Crawlers
Dead Horse Point State Park
October 31 – 1:00 PM

Happy Halloween! We are celebrating with a talk about some of our more creepy crawlers that live in the park. We will meet at the Dead Horse Point Overlook at 1:00 PM.

Maple Tapping Workshop: Tubing Systems
Wasatch Mountain State Park
November 2 – 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM

Learn the art of maple tapping with Dr. Michael Farrell! Join us for an informative and hands-on workshop where Dr. Farrell will demonstrate the installation of natural gravity-based vacuum tubing systems for tapping maple trees. Whether you’re a home hobbyist or part of a commercial operation, this workshop is for everyone interested in maple syrup production.

Dr. Farrell, who ran the Cornell University Maple Syrup Research & Extension Program for 13 years before starting his own business, will share his expertise in the field. Through the Forest Farmers, he now taps over 150,000 trees annually across multiple locations.

This workshop is free, but registration is required. Everyone is welcome!

Register Here

Iron Mission Days
Frontier Homestead State Park Museum
November 8 & 9

Join us for Iron Mission Days, a special community event featuring living history, pioneer craft demonstrations, and hands-on activities. Admission is $4 per person or $20 per family.

Veteran’s Day
Jordanelle State Park
November 11

Free day use for all Veterans. Simply show your ID at the gate.

Holiday Lights Wagon Rides
Jordanelle State Park
November 25 – Dates coming soon!

Experience the holiday magic with a festive wagon ride through a dazzling light show, pulled by a team of Percheron draft horses! Suitable for all ages, this event is curated to sprinkle a little magic into your holiday season. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on-site every Friday and Saturday evening, interacting with guests and posing for photos—so be sure to watch for them!

Event Details:

• Ride Duration: Approximately 15-20 minutes (ride length may vary depending on the horses’ pace).
• Time Slots: Rides begin at 6:00 PM and run until 9:30 PM, departing every 30 minutes. Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your scheduled reservation time. For example, if you book a 6:00 PM – 6:30 PM slot, check-in at 5:50 PM, and your wagon will depart between 6:00 PM and 6:30 PM.
• Ticketing: Each time slot can accommodate up to 105 people. If your party exceeds 15 people, please book multiple reservations for the same time slot. Private rides are also available.
• Food and Drink: Christmas treats like s’mores, hot chocolate, and cider will be available for purchase.
• Accessibility: Please note that because this is an interactive light show involving lasers, it is not sensory-friendly. If you are sensitive to light, take necessary precautions for your safety and comfort.

Important Information:

• Ticket Sales: All sales are final. The event operates rain, snow, or shine.
• Contact: For assistance with booking, call 435-654-1655 or email rmo.reservations@gmail.com.

Click here for tickets

We look forward to having you join us for this enchanting holiday experience!

Fillmore City Christmas Lighting Celebration
Territorial Statehouse State Park Museum
November 30

Free Admission

Join us for this annual celebration on the Saturday evening following Thanksgiving. Enjoy park activities including a visit from Santa, musical performances, a park full of festive lights, and refreshments!

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DARK SKY

Star Party with Ogden Astronomical Society
Antelope Island State Park
October 12 – 6:00 PM

Join OAS at the White Rock Bay event area starting at 6:00 PM for (safe) solar viewing through telescopes. After dark, the scopes will be switched for night sky viewing. This is an open, come-and-go-as-you-wish event. For more information about our hosts, visit Ogden Astronomical Society.

There is no fee for this event. If you have questions, please contact tackley@utah.gov.

Park Impacts: Increased evening traffic in White Rock Bay.

Astronomy Party
Snow Canyon State Park
October 12 – 8:00 PM to 9:30 PM

Join us at the Upper Galoot Picnic Area to celebrate National Astronomy Day! Enjoy a night of constellation tours and telescope viewing under the stunning desert sky.

Registration required. Space is limited. Program registration is held two days prior to the event. Register by phone or in person. For more information or to register for a program, contact park staff at the Snow Canyon Visitor Center: (435) 628-2255.

Bat’s Incredible! Bat talk
Dead Horse Point State Park
October 26 – 7:00 PM

As we get closer to the celebration of Halloween join us for another night of learning more about the amazing bat species that call Dead Horse Point State Park home. We will meet at the Visitor Center at 7:00 PM and will take a short quarter of a mile walk as we talk about the bats.

Spooktacular Star Party
Dead Horse Point State Park
October 30 – 7:30 PM

Join us as we get ready for Halloween. During this spooktacular event we will tour the constellations and stars talking about some of the more spooky or strange stories that are told about our night skies. Meet in the Visitor Center parking lot at 7:30 PM.

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HIDDEN GEMS

Tortoise Adventure
Snow Canyon State Park
October 4th – 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM

Join us for a moderate hike during Desert Tortoise Week as we explore the park and search for these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat. Learn more about the desert tortoise and how you can help protect this unique species.

Registration is required. Space is limited. Program registration is held two days prior to the event. Register by phone or in person. For more information or to register for a program, contact park staff at the Snow Canyon Visitor Center: (435) 628-2255.

Outdoor Drawing from Observation
Antelope Island State Park
October 5 – 1:00 PM

Join us at the picnic area at Fielding-Garr Ranch for an afternoon of guided pencil drawing! We’ll draw from a variety of still lifes, including wild plants, ranch tools, and animal skulls. Come for the fresh air, stay to learn something new in this low-pressure art environment. All ages and all skill levels are welcome!

Basic materials (No. 2 pencils, clipboards, and colored pencils) will be provided, but you are encouraged to bring your own materials and boards if you care for a higher-quality result. There is no fee for this activity—regular park entry fees apply. Contact tackley@utah.gov with any questions.

Tortoise Stroll
Snow Canyon State Park
October 5 – 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM

Take a leisurely stroll through Snow Canyon and learn about the desert tortoise. Keep your eyes open—you just might spot one of these elusive creatures in their natural environment!

Registration required. Space is limited. Program registration is held two days prior to the event. Register by phone or in person. For more information or to register for a program, contact park staff at the Snow Canyon Visitor Center: (435) 628-2255.

Celebrate Desert Tortoises
Snow Canyon State Park
October 6 – 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM

The first week of October is Desert Tortoise Week! Stop by our ranger table at the Chuckwalla Trailhead to learn about these fascinating reptiles and their role in the desert ecosystem.

Registration required. Space is limited. Program registration is held two days prior to the event. Register by phone or in person. For more information or to register for a program, contact park staff at the Snow Canyon Visitor Center: (435) 628-2255.

Sunset Talk
Dead Horse Point State Park
October 11 – 6:00 PM

Sunset can be a spectacular time to come and view what the park has to offer. Watch the sunset and while you do, a ranger will talk to you about what makes this park so special. Meet by the bathrooms out at the Dead Horse Point Overlook at 6:00 PM. We will be walking a little ways down the west rim trail. You are welcome to bring a chair if you would like.

Plants and Wildlife Table
Goblin Valley State Park
October 12 – 1:00 PM

Stop by the observation point and chat with our rangers to discover the fascinating plants and wildlife that make Goblin Valley their home. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the natural wonders of the park!

Sunset Hike
Snow Canyon State Park
October 16 – 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM

Join us for a moderate hike as we watch the park transition from day to night. Along the way, learn about the animals that come alive at dusk and experience the desert in a whole new light.

Registration required. Space is limited. Program registration is held two days prior to the event. Register by phone or in person. For more information or to register for a program, contact park staff at the Snow Canyon Visitor Center: (435) 628-2255.

Plants of Snow Canyon
Snow Canyon State Park
October 20 – 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM

Want to learn more about the diverse plant life in Snow Canyon? Join us for a moderate hike as we explore the local flora and discuss the fascinating plant species that thrive in this unique desert landscape.

Registration required. Space is limited. Program registration is held two days prior to the event. Register by phone or in person. For more information or to register for a program, contact park staff at the Snow Canyon Visitor Center: (435) 628-2255.

Sunset Talk
Dead Horse Point State Park
October 24 – 5:45 PM

As the sun begins to lower itself below the horizon, join a ranger as they talk about the amazing things inside and outside the park. Meet by the bathrooms at the Dead Horse Point Overlook at 5:45 PM. We will be walking a little ways down the west rim trail before getting to our spot.

The Gunlock Rock Talk!
Gunlock State Park
October 24 – 6:00 PM

Join Ranger Aide Conner Bennett for an engaging talk about the ancient layers of rock in Gunlock State Park. This fun and educational event is open to all ages—come explore the park’s geological history with friends and park staff!

BYOC Sunrise Stroll
Snow Canyon State Park
October 27 – 7:30 AM to 9:00 AM

Bring your own coffee and start your morning with a peaceful stroll as the sun rises over Snow Canyon. Walk alongside a ranger and enjoy the beauty of the early desert morning.

Registration required. Space is limited. Program registration is held two days prior to the event. Register by phone or in person. For more information or to register for a program, contact park staff at the Snow Canyon Visitor Center: (435) 628-2255.

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OUTDOOR ESCAPES

Trail Hero
Sand Hollow State Park
September 30 – October 5

Join us for Trail Hero 2024, an off-roading event focused on guided trail rides and rock crawling sports. The event also features a free vendor show with food trucks and kids’ activities. From October 3rd to October 5th, enjoy live music from different bands during our music fest.

For more details, visit TheTrailHero.com.

UTV Take Over
Sand Hollow State Park
October 15 – 20

Join us for the UTV Takeover at Sand Hollow State Park, an exciting off-roading event running from October 15th to 20th. In addition to thrilling off-road activities, explore vendor row for various products and services.

Notification of Upcoming Event Restrictions:
Please note that some OHV areas within Sand Hollow State Park will be blocked off and used exclusively for this event. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

For more details, visit the UTV Takeover website.

Hike with a Ranger
Antelope Island State Park
November 22 – 5:00 PM

Join the park naturalist at the Buffalo Point trailhead at 5:00 PM for a guided hike. Enjoy breathtaking views of the setting sun across the Great Salt Lake as we explore Antelope Island’s rich history.

There is no program fee for this event. Standard park entry fees apply. For more information, contact tackley@utah.gov

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OFF THE BEATEN PATH

Autumn in Utah invites you to explore on your terms. If you love discovering new paths and creating your own adventure, we’ve handpicked three top self-guided experiences just for you. These unique adventures promise excitement and enjoyment at your own pace:

North Region

Horseback Riding at Antelope Island
Antelope Island State Park

Experience the thrill of horseback riding with Rhodes Valley Outfitters at Antelope Island! All levels of riders welcomed and encouraged to participate in this exciting Antelope Island experience.

Rhodes Valley Outfitters invites you to experience the unparalleled beauty of Utah’s Antelope Island from a one-of-a-kind vantage point – on horseback. Our seasoned horses are your trusted companions as you explore the heart of the Great Salt Lake. With our commitment to safety and personalized service, every ride is tailored to your preferences and experience level, ensuring an unforgettable adventure. Take a journey through captivating trails and panoramic views, where the scent of sagebrush fills the air and the native wildlife echoes across the landscape. Escape the ordinary, and experience the beauty of Antelope Island with Rhodes Valley Outfitters!

Contact Us To Book Your Adventure

Antelope Island Ride Rates

• 1 Hour Antelope Experience:  $85.00 per rider
• 2 Hour Antelope Experience:  $105.00 per rider
• Additional Time:  $40.00 per hour, per rider when available
• Bring Your Own Horse Experience:  $50.00 per hour, per rider when available

Tips To Keep In Mind When Booking

• Trail rides are offered year-round.
• Riders must be 8 years old to participate.
• No double riding allowed.
• One-hour rides are recommended for riders 8 to 12 years old.
• Riders under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
• All rides start off with a 10 to 15-minute arena lesson to introduce horse and rider.
• Please arrive 20 minutes prior to your scheduled time.
• There is a weight limit of 230 lbs, and each rider must be able to mount their horse unassisted.

BOOK YOUR RIDE TODAY!

East Region

3D Archery Range
Fred Hayes State Park at Starvation

Our 3D archery range is located just west of the entrance station near Indian Bay. Practice your skills with shots ranging from 15 to 60 yards at varying angles and difficulty, at a variety of life-size targets.  All ages are welcome.  There is a waiver form located at the range that everyone must sign and if you are under 18 years of age you will need a parent’s signature on the waiver form.

Cost to use the range is free with paid $10 park day-use fee, any camping fee, or an annual pass.

The range is open from April through November.  However, due to staffing shortages during some of those months, the gate may be locked.  Please call ahead or find us at the park to open the gate (or you can just walk in from the gate).  From the end of May through the end of September, the gate is open from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Southwest Region

Kodachrome Penny Press Geocache Challenge
Kodachrome Basin State Park

We recently set up a penny press geocache challenge. We have four different smashed pennies available in our gift shop and now we have four geocaches where you can find these pennies in a small container in the park. The coordinates for the geocaches are:

1-Cool Cave: N 37°31.864′ W 112°00.833′

2-Shakespeare Trail: N 37°30.403′ W 111°58.952′

3-Grand Parade: N 37°31.404′ W 111°59.185′

4-Angel’s Palace: N 37°31.651′ W 111°59.467′

See if you can find them all! Happy hunting…

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AUTUMN SAFETY

As the weather cools down, safety remains vital for your outdoor adventures! Here are some essential tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:

• Check your gear before heading out. Ensure it’s in good condition for the season’s activities.
• Inform a trusted person of your destination and estimated return time. 
• Pack a kit with essentials for handling minor injuries. Bring important items like sunscreen and bug repellent. Communication devices such as cell phones or radios are vital for reaching out for assistance in an emergency.
• Avoid going solo. Bring a friend when exploring for an extra layer of security.
• Stay informed about weather forecasts and park conditions, including boat ramp closures and fire restrictions.
• Keep an eye on changing weather conditions and seek shelter if storms approach unexpectedly. If you are on the water and see signs of an approaching storm, it’s best to err on the side of caution and return to shore. Prioritize your safety and seek shelter until conditions improve.
• Always wear appropriate safety gear, including life jackets for boating and helmets for off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding. Be aware of Utah’s laws regarding life jacket and helmet requirements.
• Temperatures can drop significantly, especially in the evening and at higher elevations. Dress in layers so you can adjust to changing conditions throughout the day. Bring a jacket, even if the day starts out warm.
• Know the boating rules and regulations before hitting Utah’s lakes and reservoirs. Observe speed limits, watch for other watercraft, check water levels and hazards, and never boat under the influence. Always designate a sober driver. For more tips, visit the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation.
• Always check fire restrictions in advance and practice campfire safety. Never leave fires unattended, contain them in approved pits or cleared areas, avoid windy days and keep water or a fire extinguisher nearby. For more tips, visit utahfiresense.org. 

Prioritize your safety and have a fantastic time exploring Utah’s stunning landscapes! 

Autumn at Utah’s state parks is full of beauty and adventure waiting to be explored. So, grab your favorite flannel, bring along family and friends and experience the best of the season. Whether it’s the crunch of leaves underfoot or the thrill of discovering something new, this fall is all about making lasting memories.