Where to See Fall Colors in Northern Arizona

The Quiet Beauty of Fall in Northern Arizona

Autumn in northern Arizona is an underrated secret. While most travelers think of desert landscapes, those who visit in October find golden forests, mountain air, and peaceful roads lined with color.

From Highland Grand Canyon, you can reach some of the most beautiful fall scenes in the state in under two hours. Whether you want a gentle drive through the forest or a crisp walk among the aspens, here’s where to go.

1. Kaibab National Forest AKA Right Outside Your Tent

You don’t have to go far. Highland sits inside a private land island surrounded by Kaibab National Forest, where fall colors quietly appear in small pockets. Oak trees near the forest floor turn warm shades of orange and red, while taller pines frame the sky in deep green.

Walk a short way from your tent and you’ll find soft light filtering through the branches, perfect for morning photos or a coffee stroll.

2. North Rim of the Grand Canyon

The North Rim sees some of the most dramatic fall color in Arizona. While it begins to close for the season by mid-October, early in the month the drive is breathtaking. Aspen groves along Highway 67 shimmer gold in the sunlight, especially near Jacob Lake and the meadows around the lodge.

It’s quieter than the South Rim and well worth the drive if the roads are still open.

3. Bill Williams Mountain – Williams, AZ

About an hour from Highland, the slopes of Bill Williams Mountain near Williams offer a lovely mix of oak and aspen. The drive up Route 66 toward Forest Road 140 is especially scenic in mid to late October. You can park and walk short trails where the forest glows with warm color and crisp air.

Grab a warm drink in downtown Williams afterward and browse the vintage shops before heading back to camp.

4. Lockett Meadow – Flagstaff

Lockett Meadow, part of the San Francisco Peaks near Flagstaff, is one of Arizona’s most famous fall color destinations. The narrow road to the meadow winds through groves of aspen that light up in gold. Once there, you can walk the Inner Basin Trail for wide views of the peaks framed by golden trees.

It’s a longer day trip from Highland, but one of the best in the state. Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and bring a picnic lunch to enjoy under the aspens.

5. Oak Creek Canyon – Between Flagstaff and Sedona

For a totally different fall experience, drive south through Oak Creek Canyon. The canyon’s steep red walls and running water contrast beautifully with bright yellow cottonwoods and deep red maples. The mix of color against the red rock is pure Arizona magic.

While it’s a few hours from Highland, it makes a great loop drive if you plan to explore Sedona during your trip.

Tips for Fall Color Viewing

• Plan your trip around mid to late October for the best variety

• Mornings offer the softest light for photos

• Bring layers, as temperatures can swing between warm and cool

• Always check road conditions for forest roads before heading out

• Leave no trace and pack out everything you bring

Why Fall Feels Special at Highland

After a day chasing colors, returning to Highland feels like stepping into your own quiet refuge. The tents glow softly at sunset, and the scent of pine fills the air. You can grill dinner under the pergola, sip local wine by the fire, and reflect on everything you saw.

This is what makes glamping Grand Canyon so unique — you get the wild beauty of northern Arizona paired with warmth, comfort, and peace.

Ready to see Arizona glow in gold? Plan your October stay at Highland Grand Canyon and experience fall colors right from your tent porch.