Fall is right around the corner, so I wanted to share a few great places to see fall leaves. There are so many amazing places to see fall colors and these ones are spectacular! These were taken in late September and early October. It will depend on the temperatures and weather this fall to know exactly when the colors will be at their peak.

Cascade Springs is a boardwalk loop that goes around natural springs, stream, tiny waterfalls and is a premium spot to see fall color. The fall leaves are my favorite part. This trail does have optional stairs, so it is not entirely wheelchair accessible, but a large part of the trail is accessible.

There are two parking lots to Cascade Springs. They are both nice and it’s less than a mile to walk around the whole path. If you are in a wheelchair or have limited time or mobility, I recommend parking in the lower lot. If you are coming through the Alpine Loop, this will be the second lot. I will describe the path from this route. Right from the parking lot this is a beautiful trail through the trees and near a meadow.

There are periodic signs that show what wildlife and plant life live in this area.

Soon you will come to quaint little bridge. There is a junction at this point that combines the two paths from the lower parking lot. Either way you have come, cross the bridge to get to the main Cascade Springs.

The boardwalk winds back and forth around Cascade Springs which has little waterfalls and ponds. There are fish in the ponds if you look closely.

It’s all very scenic. This is a very popular spot on the weekends in the fall, so if you can go early or on a weekday you can avoid some of the crowds.

At this point you can choose if you want to head up the stairs or across the bridge. There will be a few more opportunities to cross over the water higher up. Despite the drought, the water is still going quite fast.

The fall colors are astounding!

Above the waterfalls there is a wider river that is quite shallow now. The path goes all the way around or you can cross below it. Just above this is where the higher path from the parking lot connects.

The trail from the upper lot is also is paved through the trees.

Here are a few more shots from our visit on 9/29/21.

Here are some photos from past years.

While the kids were collecting leaves from the ground, they found this lady bug pupae. They shed their skin several times as they develop their exoskeleton and those little leg-looking things are pieces of the last skin. Watch this 3-minute YouTube video if you want to know more about the Lady Bug life cycle.

The entire Alpine Loop is an amazing scenic drive to look for the fall colors. Here are a few photos to illustrate.

The Deer Creek Overlook is an especially stunning viewpoint. It is only 7 minutes south of Cascade Springs, closer to the Provo Canyon side. There is a parking lot to pull over and you’ll definitely want to do so!

Distance – 0.8 mile loop
Approximate hiking time – 1-2 hours
Elevation gain – 88 feet
Difficulty – Easy
Trail – Paved with a few optional stairs
Bathrooms – At Trailhead
Seasons to hike – May-October
Permits needed – $6 per car or a National Parks Pass
Pets allowed – Yes

Deer Creek Overlook