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Cue the plaid scarves and pumpkin spice; with the coziest season of the year here by the end of the month (officially), chances are you’re already thinking fall. And if summer didn’t offer enough opportunities to get away, consider the convenient simplicity of an autumn staycation right here in the Beehive State.
Southeastern Utah’s natural beauty and cultural diversity comes alive during the fall months, with cooler weather welcoming road-trippers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. So, if you’re ready for an autumn vacay, check out everything San Juan County has to offer.
Abajo Mountains
You might picture the Wasatch Front when you think of Utah’s most iconic mountains, but if you haven’t experienced the Abajo Mountain region, it’s time to branch out to southeast Utah.
Autumn brings crisp mornings and cooler weather, turning the Abajo region into a wonderland of vibrantly colored foliage. Be sure to bring your hiking shoes, mountain bike or ATV to explore Abajo’s countless trails.
Blanding dinosaur museum/Bears Ears National Monument
Talk about distance learning! Utah’s Canyon Country is an archeological mecca, with historical sites dating back millions of years. Check out the Dinosaur Museum in Blanding for an up-close look at the region’s most exciting discoveries.
Prehistoric animals aren’t all San Juan County has to offer. While you’re there, check out Newspaper Rock in Bears Ears National Monument, an ancient petroglyph panel depicting over 650 symbols left by Ancestral Puebloans, Fremont people, Navajo people, and Anglo-Americans. The autumn months are the perfect time to visit—the blazing summer heat is finally relenting, making an outdoor adventure all the more appealing.
Scenic highways and byways
Finding a little joy in the journey is easy in Utah’s Canyon Country, where the landscape isn’t just scenic— it’s silver-screen worthy. In fact, San Juan County’s Monument Valley is a popular Hollywood filming location—and for good reason. Scenic Byway 163 provides a stunning view of the red rock desert with its large spire-shaped rock formations. But don’t stop there; Utah’s Canyon Country also recommends the scenic drives along highways 95, 163, 191, 261, 275, 276.
San Juan County restaurants
If you’ve never had a Navajo taco, it’s time to stop depriving your taste buds. The Four Corners area of Southern Utah is known for its Native American-influenced cuisine, heavy on Navajo-grown vegetables like beans, squash, and corn. The Navajo taco loads fried meat and fresh veggies on delicious, golden Navajo fry bread. While you’re in the area, be sure to try Twin Rocks Café in Bluff or grab a quick bite at the locals’ favorite Goulding’s Stagecoach Restaurant for delicious Navajo tacos. If you do stop at Goulding’s, you’re sure to want their Navajo taco recipe. You can find that here.
San Juan River
It might be visually breathtaking, but the San Juan River isn’t just for admiring—it’s as much a playground as it is a backdrop. San Juan River rafting is a cherished pastime in southeastern Utah, and it’s one everyone can enjoy.
Half-day and one-day trips are perfect for families, novices and those on a time crunch, while those with more time (and a greater taste for adventure) can enjoy a few days on the raft. Get a guide from Wild Expeditions and see Utah’s Canyon Country from the very heart of Canyon Country – the San Juan River. You’ll see the autumn sights from one of the most thrilling seats in the metaphorical house.
Natural Bridges National Monument
Worth a visit any season of the year, Natural Bridges is particularly spectacular—and enjoyable – in autumn’s vibrant colors and cooler weather. Take in the three towering natural bridges— some of the largest in the world—on one of the area’s many hikes suited for all ages and abilities.
And don’t hurry back; after dark, the skies around Natural Bridges provide a breathtakingly celestial view with thousands of stars visible.
Unique local accommodations
While traditional hotels and campsites abound, San Juan County gives you all sorts of opportunities to get out of your comfort zone—while sleeping comfortably. From rustic cabins to fully equipped campsites to yurts, teepees and even traditional Navajo hogans, you can get a good night’s sleep with a side of culture in San Juan County.
Hideout Golf Club
There’s a reason for all the five-star reviews on TripAdvisor; Hideout Golf Club in Monticello is a must-play, challenging even seasoned golfers with its 18 holes of varying elevations while delighting them with a stunning view of the Abajo Mountains.
Often referred to as Utah’s best-kept secret, the Hideout is the perfect venue for golfers of all ability levels.
Valley of the Gods
Located near Bears Ears National Monument and Mexican Hat, Valley of the Gods is often considered a miniature version of Monument Valley, offering scenic rock formations in a much less-trafficked area. Take in a scenic hike or stop for a picnic in the crisp fall air.
Summer might be over, but that doesn’t mean vacations are too – especially when culture, scenery and adventure are practically in your own backyard. Head to southeast Utah to discover all the reasons you’ll fall for Utah’s Canyon Country.
