The Best Places to View Fall Foliage Near Scottsdale

Arizona might be known for endless sunshine and desert landscapes, but fall has its own way of stealing the show. Just a couple of hours from Scottsdale, canyons and mountain towns trade summer’s heat for crisp air and leaves that glow gold, orange, and crimson. From quick day trips to weekend getaways, here’s where to find the best fall foliage near Scottsdale and make the most of this short but stunning season.

Sedona is always stunning, but in the fall, it feels cinematic. Roughly two hours north of Scottsdale, Oak Creek Canyon becomes a living painting, with golden cottonwoods and fiery maples set against those famous red cliffs. The drive along State Route 89A delivers one breathtaking curve after another, but if you can spare the time, step onto the West Fork Trail. This easy, shaded hike meanders along the creek, where leaves drift lazily across the water.  Late September to mid-October offers peak color and cool, comfortable weather, making it the ideal conditions for a scenic hike followed by a leisurely lunch in town.

For an immersive autumn escape, head to Flagstaff. At over 7,000 feet, the city turns into a patchwork quilt of gold and green every October. The Aspen Nature Loop offers sweeping views of the San Francisco Peaks, while the Kachina Trail winds quietly under a canopy of shimmering aspens. Even a slow drive up Snowbowl Road can stop you in your tracks with its mountain views and bursts of color. Visiting in mid-October is the sweet spot: crisp air, leaves at their brightest, and that unmistakable scent of fall riding the breeze.

Just an hour and a half from Scottsdale, Payson is one of the easiest places to catch fall colors on a whim. The Mogollon Rim unfolds in dramatic layers, with forests and canyons stretching as far as the eye can see. Woods Canyon Lake is a must for its mirror-like reflections of gold and amber leaves. If you’re short on time, the Washington Park Trailhead offers a quick burst of color with the option to extend your walk as long as you like. Mid to late October is prime viewing season, and its proximity makes a spontaneous weekday trip entirely doable.

When you’re ready for a slower pace, the White Mountains make for a rewarding weekend away. Cooler and more tranquil than the Valley, this high-country escape is dotted with aspen groves that seem to glow from within when the afternoon sun hits just right. The towns of Pinetop-Lakeside add charm with cozy cabins, small-town diners, and nearby lakes perfect for a picnic. Late October into early November brings some of the state’s last lingering fall colors, making it worth the extra drive.

Some of Arizona’s best fall moments happen off the main routes. Houston Brothers Trail offers a quiet walk through groves of red maples and golden aspens, while the steeper See Canyon Trail rewards hikers with lush, colorful scenery along a creek. Even a casual drive along Rim Road (Forest Road 300) can surprise you with pockets of vibrant color tucked between stretches of evergreen. These lesser-known routes trade crowds for calm, letting you soak in the season at your own pace.

Arizona’s fall foliage works on an elevation-based schedule. Higher elevations like Flagstaff and Sedona hit their peak first (usually late September through mid-October), while mid-elevation spots like the Mogollon Rim and the White Mountains often hold their colors into November. 

Pro Tip: Check Flagstaff’s “leaf-ometer” before heading out. It’s surprisingly accurate and helps you hit that sweet spot for maximum color.

• Leave early to catch the golden morning light and beat the crowds.
• Bring layers—mountain mornings can be brisk, even if it’s warm in Scottsdale.
• Mix it up with both scenic drives and short hikes so you can enjoy the views from different angles.
• Pack snacks or lunch. Some of the best photo ops are far from restaurants, and you’ll want time to linger.

For Scottsdale residents, these autumn drives are about connection. They’re a reminder to slow down, take in the scenery, and enjoy the best of Arizona’s diversity. One day you’re sipping coffee in the desert; the next, you’re crunching leaves underfoot in the pines. It’s one of the many perks of living in a place where natural beauty is never far away.

One of the best parts of living in Scottsdale is how close you are to Arizona’s most stunning seasonal getaways. From Sedona’s red-rock trails to the aspen-covered slopes near Flagstaff, a weekend escape to crisp mountain air and breathtaking scenery is always within reach.

Matheson Real Estate Team can help you find a Scottsdale home that keeps every adventure close, whether you’re looking for a golf course retreat, a lock-and-leave condo, or a spacious family property. With deep market insight and a commitment to your goals, they’ll make your next move seamless. Reach out today to start your search.