Utah Ranked Second for Fall Foliage Nationally
A new industry study recognized Utah as a top destination for experiencing autumn colors this season.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in National Parks
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Do you plan to travel within your state to view fall foliage this year?
Utah has secured the second-place ranking for fall foliage in a comprehensive study conducted by Maaltalk. The assessment evaluated states across the United States to determine the best locations for autumn scenery.
Why it matters
The ranking highlights the state as a premier destination for those seeking seasonal travel experiences. It underscores the regional appeal of Utah's natural landscapes as the autumn season officially begins.
Utah earned the 2nd place position in a national evaluation based on forest coverage, scenic drives, and peak foliage duration. The analysis further incorporated metrics such as national park accessibility, social media interest, and weather patterns.
The players
Maaltalk
Maaltalk is the organization that conducted the study ranking U.S. states based on their fall foliage offerings.
The details
The ranking process conducted by Maaltalk utilized a multifaceted approach to evaluate states. Criteria included camping friendliness, TripAdvisor reviews, and the quality of scenic driving routes throughout the regions.
Timeline
September 22, 2026, marked the first day of fall.
Travel Outlook
This study reflects broader seasonal tourism trends where state rankings influence visitor movement during the peak autumn travel window. These findings mirror historical shifts in travel demand as tourists increasingly prioritize scenic accessibility and social media appeal.
Travelers looking to capture the best autumn colors should prioritize visiting the state early in the season to align with peak foliage timing. Monitoring local park conditions will help tourists navigate potential surges in popularity and scenic road traffic.
The takeaway
Travelers can use this data to identify prime areas for autumn landscapes that feature extensive forest coverage and accessible scenic drives. Planning trips around these top-rated locations may lead to a more reliable viewing experience during the short fall season.
Further reading
Explore more about the region in the National Parks section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by ABC 4.
Live Poll
Do you plan to travel within your state to view fall foliage this year?
