Salt Lake City in October
October weather, activities, events & insider tips
October Weather in Salt Lake City
Is October Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak fall foliage season - Wasatch Mountains display brilliant gold aspens from 2,100-2,700m (7,000-9,000 ft) elevation, best viewing mid-October
- Ideal hiking weather with comfortable daytime temperatures 12-16°C (54-61°F) and crystal-clear visibility extending 80+ km (50+ miles) on most days
- Lowest tourist crowds of the year at major attractions like Temple Square and Podgorica, with 40-60% fewer visitors than summer months
- Perfect skiing prep season with Alta and Snowbird typically opening final week of October, offering early-season powder at fraction of peak pricing
Considerations
- Dramatic temperature swings require constant layering - morning temperatures near freezing can jump to 16°C (61°F) by afternoon
- Mountain weather becomes unpredictable with potential October snowstorms above 2,400m (8,000 ft) that can close hiking trails with 24-hour notice
- Daylight hours shrink rapidly from 11.5 to 10.5 hours throughout the month, limiting outdoor photography and evening activities
Best Activities in October
Wasatch Mountains Fall Foliage Tours
October is the only month to catch Utah's spectacular aspen displays at peak color. The narrow elevation band where aspens thrive creates a brief 2-3 week window of golden hillsides. Cool mornings preserve colors while warm afternoons provide comfortable hiking. Mountain air clarity in October offers unobstructed views extending to distant ranges.
Great Salt Lake State Park Birding
October marks peak fall migration with over 250 species passing through. Cool weather reduces lake smell while dropping water levels concentrate waterfowl. Early morning temperatures 3-5°C (37-41°F) mean birds are less active until 8-9am, perfect for photography. Western winds typical in October bring rare species from Pacific flyway.
Historic Downtown Walking Tours
October's mild temperatures 10-14°C (50-57°F) make 3-4 hour walking tours comfortable without summer heat stress. Fewer crowds mean better access to Temple Square, Pioneer Park, and historic buildings. Clear October air provides excellent photography lighting, especially for Mormon Temple architecture during golden hour.
Park City Mountain Biking
October offers ideal mountain biking conditions with comfortable temperatures, minimal mud, and impressive fall colors. Trails at 2,100-2,400m (7,000-8,000 ft) provide perfect riding weather while higher elevations may have early snow. Mid-Mountain Trail and Round Valley trails showcase peak aspen colors against evergreen backdrop.
Antelope Island State Park Wildlife Viewing
October brings rutting season for American bison herds, offering dramatic wildlife photography opportunities. Cool weather makes 15-20 km (9-12 mile) driving tours comfortable while animals are more active during moderate temperatures. Clear October skies provide excellent visibility across the 109 km² (42 square mile) island.
Local Brewery and Distillery Tours
October's cool weather makes indoor tastings appealing while harvest season brings special autumn beer releases and whiskey bottlings. Utah's unique 5% ABV beer laws create distinctive brewing styles worth exploring. Comfortable walking weather connects multiple venues in downtown brewing district.
October Events & Festivals
Utah State Fair
Major annual fair featuring local agriculture displays, regional food vendors, and traditional carnival rides. October timing showcases fall harvest with pumpkin competitions, apple cider, and seasonal crafts. Fairgrounds located at 155 North 1000 West offer easy public transit access.
Salt Lake City Marathon and Half Marathon
October's cool weather provides ideal marathon conditions with temperatures starting near 3°C (37°F) and reaching 14°C (57°F) by finish. Course runs through downtown and into foothills with spectacular fall foliage views. Creates significant downtown traffic restrictions on race weekend.