If you’ve glanced at the mountains lately, you’ve probably noticed a hint of color creeping in—that means fall is officially on its way! The leaves always seem to change too quickly (and disappear even faster), which makes soaking them in feel extra special. We get a few magical weeks to enjoy the show. First, the colors light up the mountains, then they drift down into the foothills, and finally, they brighten our own neighborhoods. Why not make a date night (or two!) out of it? In this post, I’ll share creative ways to turn leaf peeping into a cozy, memorable outing, plus the best spots right here in Davis County to see autumn in all its glory.

Fall Leaf Peeping Date Ideas

Take a cup of hot cocoa or cider along for the ride

For me, hot chocolate season officially begins the moment the leaves start to turn and the crisp fall air hits in the mornings. There’s just something about wrapping your hands around a warm cup while watching the mountains explode with color. Sipping hot cocoa (or cider, if that’s your style) during a scenic drive to see the fall leaves is one of my favorite ways to enjoy the transition. If you want to make this part of your date night, check out this post on hot chocolate date ideas for some fun twists and my roundup of the best places to grab a cup of cocoa in Davis County before you head out leaf peeping.

Bonus idea: Grab two different flavors and trade halfway through your drive. It’s the perfect excuse for an extra taste test date!

Roll the windows down

If your leaf-peeping date takes you on a drive, don’t just watch the scenery through the window glass; open your sunroof or roll the windows down. The air this time of year is magical! It’s still warm enough to be comfortable, but with that perfect cool breeze that lets you know fall has arrived. Let the crisp air fill the car, breathe in that earthy autumn scent, and take in the leaves with more than just your eyes.

Bonus idea: Queue up your favorite playlist, belt out a song together, or see who can spot the first bright red tree.

Enjoy the crunch of leaves under your feet

Stretch your legs and soak in the fall colors up close. The reds, oranges, and golds are even more breathtaking when they surround you, and nothing beats the sound of crisp leaves crunching under your feet as you walk together. It’s a simple pleasure, but one of the best parts of fall.

Bonus idea: Challenge each other to find the “prettiest leaf” on your walk and take a photo holding them side by side or kissing behind them.

Snap some photos together

There’s a reason fall is the most popular season for family photos; the colors are unbeatable. Golden leaves, crisp air, and mountain views make the perfect backdrop. Turn your leaf-peeping date into a mini photo session. Scout out your favorite fall spots, then plan a time for couple or family pictures. Or, keep it simple and snap a few selfies while you’re out exploring and share your favorite local leaf locations with friends on social media.

Bonus idea: Take a silly photo along with the serious ones. Capture the true dynamic of the two of you as a couple.

The Best Places to See the Fall Leaves in Davis County

Farmington Canyon

We’ve driven up Farmington Canyon a few times as a family, and every single time it takes my breath away. The colors at their peak are unreal, and a canyon drive here feels like stepping straight into a postcard. Pack a picnic to enjoy from the top, where you can look out over both the valley and the canyon, bursting with color.

Not big on driving? Farmington Creek Trail is a gorgeous option, too! Check out Discover Davis’ guide to Farmington Creek Trail for details on the hike.

Fernwood Trail

A friend of mine hikes Fernwood Trail regularly, and a couple of years ago, I joined her right when the leaves were glowing. It was stunning! This spot also makes the list on Discover Davis’ Best Places to See Fall Leaves in Davis County list, so you know it’s worth the trip.

If you’re looking for more of a challenge, check out Discover Davis’ directions for turning this into a bigger hike by connecting to Adams Canyon from Fernwood.

Wild Rose Trail

I love the Wild Rose Trail, especially in the evening. Dress warm and head up before sunset to catch amazing views of the valley, the horizon glowing, and even planes taking off and landing in the distance. And of course, this time of year, you’ll hike through plenty of colorful leaves on your way up. Bring a thermos of your favorite warm beverage to enjoy together as the sun sets and the temperatures drop.

Related: Wild Rose Trail Sunset Hike

Mueller Park Canyon

If I had to pick a personal favorite for fall, it’s Mueller Park Canyon. Driving east on 1800 S in Bountiful from Orchard Drive, you come up over a hill and the canyon opens up in front of you. It’s one of those jaw-dropping moments you never forget! Of course, driving into the canyon or hiking the trails is beautiful too, but honestly? I could make that 1800 S drive every day in the fall and never get tired of it.

If a mountain hike or canyon drive isn’t on your agenda, don’t worry, you don’t have to leave town to soak in the colors. Davis County has plenty of spots right in the valley where you can enjoy a cozy fall walk, snap a few photos, or grab a treat while you leaf peep.

Lagoon Trail

Right in the heart of Farmington, the Lagoon Trail is a paved path surrounded by trees. No matter which stretch you choose, you’ll be treated to a canopy of color as the valley leaves start to change and fall. It’s also one of the prettiest spots for family or couple photos this time of year.

Farmington Main Street

Take a walk (or drive) down Main Street between State Street and 500 North, and you’ll be treated to tree-lined streets glowing with fall color. At the south end, stop in at Caffè Torino for crepes, coffee, or hot cocoa and enjoy the cozy fall views while you eat. The tree-lined historic street and the quaint cafe are like something straight out of a Hallmark movie.

Nicholls Park

Tucked along a creek on the north side of Nicholls Park is a quiet trail shaded by trees. In the summer, it’s cool and green, but in the fall, the colors transform it into a hidden gem. It’s the perfect low-key walk to take when you want to slow down, enjoy the crisp air, and soak in the season together.

If you want to make a day of it, check out this mini road trip you can take to see gorgeous fall leaves all over Northern Utah!

A fall leaf date is one of the most limited-time activities you can plan. Those colors don’t stick around for long! Take advantage of the season while it lasts, soak in the gorgeous views, and enjoy a relaxing date with the one you love.

Drop your favorite Davis County leaf-peeping spots in the comments so other couples can add them to their fall bucket lists.