Fall Colors in Arizona: Best Places to See Them
Want to see fall colors in Arizona this year? While Arizona is known for its vast deserts, it also boasts stunning landscapes that showcase the beauty of autumn. Imagine driving just an hour or two in any direction and finding yourself surrounded by a whole new world of vibrant foliage. If, like me, you have a deep love for the desert but long to witness the magic of changing leaves, you’re in for a treat. Today, we’re unveiling the ultimate guide to the BEST destinations for fall colors in Arizona. Let’s embark on this extraordinary journey.
Where to See Fall Colors in Arizona
One thing I love about Arizona is fall lasts so long, because of the elevation differences. If fall colors are gone in Flagstaff, they may still be present in Sedona. When Sedona’s fall colors fade, the desert starts to shine! I’m so excited to go over the best place to see fall colors in Arizona with you- let’s go!
1. Flagstaff, Arizona
Flagstaff is undeniably the BEST place to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of fall colors in Arizona. Nestled in the heart of Flagstaff, the Downtown College Area boasts not only charming stores, but delicious restaurants that will surely satisfy your cravings. As you venture further, the local parks in Flagstaff beckon you with their tranquil atmosphere and enchanting foliage, creating the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful picnic. Beyond the parks, there are many beautiful trails in the forest to fully immerse yourself in the fall vibes- let me list a few!
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Inner Basin Trail
*****NOTE: Inner Basin Trail/Road is reopened but did experience the Pipeline Fire in June 2022, so you may see burn marks. This is your reminder to leave no trace.
Inner Basin Trail is a must! Here you will the beautiful yellow-orange display of the aspens in the mountain town of Flagstaff, Arizona. This hike is rated moderate as it is much higher elevation than Phoenix, so bring lots of water. You do need a high clearance vehicle to drive up this road to the trailhead/campground. The best time to see peak color is between Week 1-3 of October. It is a beautiful place to see fall colors in Arizona.
- 3.4 mi roundtrip
- 774 ft elevation gain
- 43 minutes north of Flagstaff to the Trailhead
- Directions: Going north on HWY17 past Flagstaff, turn left directly across from Sunset Crater National Monument, then turn right onto Schultz Pass Rd and follow about 5 miles to the trailhead.
- IMPORTANT: High Clearance Vehicle Recommended (bumpy dirt road)
Aspen Loop
Arizona Snowbowl is one of Arizona’s few ski resorts- yes it snows here! Snowbowl is by far the most popular. It too is one of my favorite places to see Fall Colors in Arizona. When it isn’t snowing, Snowbowl is a destination for scenic ski lifts and hikes galore. In the fall, you can drive up Snowbowl road and stop anywhere you want to take a picture! Just pop “Arizona Snowbowl” or “Aspen Loop” into your GPS and it’ll take you there (it’s about 24 minutes/14 miles outside of Downtown to the top). The photo above was taken a month before leaves change, so if you went in October this photo would be full of yellow leaves! Aspen Loop can e turned into a hike, but we just parked and took photos and relaxed in a hammock close to the road.
Humphrey’s Peak
If you’re up for a challenge and extra fall colors (& less crowds), you should hike Mt. Humphrey’s Trail. Yes, this is the tallest peak in Arizona. If you’re trying to enjoy fall colors, you don’t need to hike the whole thing. You should at least once, but at least go up to the saddle. Mt. Humprehy’s Trail is located up Snowbowl Road outside of the Downtown Area.
- 10.7 miles roundtrip
- 3,395 ft elevation gain
- Dog-Friendly: Yes
- Rating: HARD
2. Prescott, Arizona
Not everyone knows about Prescott, but they should! It’s definitely the most unexpected place to see Fall Colors in Arizona. Prescott is less than 2 hours from Phoenix, making it the perfect weekend getaway! To get your autumn fix, walk around Willow, Watson, or Goldwater Lake, see the festive historic downtown houses, and grab something to eat in Historic Whiskey Row and check out Courthouse Square. You won’t regret it! Close by is Jerome which is also great for fall vibes.
3. Sedona, Arizona
Most people know Sedona has RED rock, but in the fall it also has RED LEAVES. Oak Creek Canyon in Sedona totally LIGHTS UP in the fall with bright red Maples leaves. West Fork Trail in Oak Creek Canyon is THE trail to do in Sedona in the fall. The awesome thing about this trail is you can go as far as you want. You don’t need to feel the need to go the whole way if you’re limited by time or other factors- it’s beautiful the whole way! I also love being able to skip over a creek and enjoy the canyon views. If you’re thinking about seeing Fall Colors in Arizona, you can’t forget Oak Creek Canyon in Sedona.
USE THE LEAF-OMETER WEBSITE TO ACTIVELY TRACK FALL FOLIAGE
West Fork Trail
- 6.5 mi roundtrip
- 567 ft elevation change
- 20 minutes north of Downtown Sedona
- Directions: Going north on Highway 89A. About 10 miles past Downtown, there will be a turnoff on the left called “Call of the Canyon Recreational Area.”
- IMPORTANT: $10 day-use parking fee. You can also try to park along Highway 89A for free and walk. National Park Pass does not apply here.
4. Payson, Arizona
For those in search of vibrant autumn foliage without the long drive to the far north, the area around Payson, Arizona, offers a stunning and easily accessible alternative. Tucked beneath the majestic Mogollon Rim, this region bursts into a brilliant display of fall colors, typically peaking from mid-to-late October or even into the beginning of November (these were November 1). You can take a scenic drive along State Highway 260, which leads you toward the Rim and provides breathtaking views of changing aspens, oaks, and maples. For a more immersive experience, lace up your hiking boots and explore trails like See Canyon or the Rim Lake Vista Trail, where you can walk among the golden and crimson leaves that carpet the forest floor and reflect in tranquil waters. It’s the perfect escape for a crisp autumn day, trading the desert heat for the cool mountain air and a palette of seasonal beauty.
5. Phoenix, Arizona
Wait, why is PHOENIX included on the “Fall Colors in Arizona” post? You’re telling me the desert has fall colors?! Why yes actually, areas in the low desert DO get fall colors, just much later than everywhere else. Let me show you some beautiful places below!
Fish Creek Near Apache Junction
When you think of Arizona, you might not immediately picture vibrant fall colors, but a hike along Fish Creek in the Superstition Mountains reveals a surprising and beautiful autumnal display. Unlike the golden aspens of Northern Arizona, the foliage here is a testament to the desert’s riparian zones. As you make your way through the canyon, you’ll be treated to a mix of sycamores and cottonwoods that turn brilliant shades of yellow and orange, creating a striking contrast against the rugged, rust-colored canyon walls. The best time to experience this unique spectacle is typically in late October or early November, when the cooler temperatures make for a pleasant trek and the leaves are at their peak. It’s a fantastic option for a day trip from Phoenix, offering a different kind of fall beauty that’s closer to home for many Valley residents.
Boyce Thompson Arboretum
Boyce Thompson Arboretum near Phoenix is BEAUTIFUL IN THE FALL. This botanical garden, a short drive east of the Phoenix area, showcases an incredible and diverse display of autumn foliage that peaks later in the season. Unlike the aspens of the north, the arboretum’s fall colors come from a wide variety of trees, including vibrant Chinese pistache, honey locust, pomegranates, and sycamores, which turn shades of gold, orange, and red. The best time to catch this colorful spectacle is typically from mid-November into early December, offering a perfect opportunity to enjoy a cool desert hike while marveling at a different, yet equally beautiful, kind of fall beauty. When you think of autumn, make sure to think of Boyce Thompson Arboretum in the fall, too!
6. Mt. Lemmon in Tucson
Southern Arizona has fall too. Mt. Lemmon in Tucson, Arizona summits at over 9,100 ft. It is termed as a a “Sky Island,” which is an isolated mountain range where vegetation and wildlife is drastically different than the surrounding low level desert. It’s so fun to drive up the scenic road and see how things change. Mt. Lemmon lights up in beautifu fall colors early to mid October. I highly suggest checking out the Cookie Cabin near the summit- it’s delicious! This is one of the best spots to see fall colors in Arizona.
7. Pinetop-Lakeside, Arizona
For a classic and breathtaking Arizona fall experience, head to the White Mountains. Unlike the desert’s subtle seasonal changes, this high-elevation region transforms into a vibrant canvas of gold, yellow, and orange. The stars of the show are the magnificent aspen and Gambel oak trees, which dot the landscape and create a stunning contrast with the deep greens of the surrounding ponderosa pines. The peak viewing time for this spectacular display is typically from late September through the middle of October. Take a scenic drive along State Highway 260 or explore scenic spots near Greer, Big Lake, and Pinetop-Lakeside to immerse yourself in the dazzling colors and crisp mountain air. It’s an unforgettable escape that proves Arizona’s beauty extends far beyond its desert landscapes.
Fall Colors in Arizona: A Summary
Don’t let Arizona’s desert reputation fool you—the state offers a stunning and surprisingly long-lasting fall foliage season for those who know where to look. From the high-elevation forests of the north to the low-desert riparian zones closer to Phoenix, the timing and type of color change can vary dramatically, allowing you to chase autumn’s beauty for months. Whether you seek the classic golden glow of aspens or the unique hues of desert sycamores, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you.
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White Mountains: Known for their classic fall display of golden aspens and oaks. The peak is typically from late September to mid-October.
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Payson & Mogollon Rim: This area features a beautiful mix of maples, oaks, and aspens, with the best viewing time generally from mid-to-late October.
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Fish Creek: A unique desert riparian area in the Superstition Mountains, where cottonwoods and sycamores turn brilliant shades of yellow and orange, often peaking in late October and into November.
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Boyce Thompson Arboretum: Located in the low desert near Superior, this botanical garden boasts a diverse collection of trees that show off their fall colors much later, with peak viewing from mid-November to early December.
