The Fall Colors in Utah are known for being breathtaking, and we are coming up on the perfect time to explore them!
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature’s autumn display, here are 10 must-visit trails near SLC for fall colors.
But first, here’s when the fall colors will be in full display:
1. Silver Lake Loop (Brighton Resort): Located near Brighton Resort, the Silver Lake Loop offers a family-friendly 0.9-mile hike that circles the lake and is perfect for taking in fall colors. The combination of the lake, wildflowers, and foliage makes this trail a top contender for any fall hike.
2. Mormon Pioneer Trail: Rich in history and fall beauty, the Mormon Pioneer Trail is a 7.5-mile trek that offers breathtaking views of golden aspen groves. The trail follows the historic route of the Mormon pioneers and rewards hikers with stunning scenery, particularly in late September to early October. This trail is perfect for a moderate hike where you can immerse yourself in both history and nature.
3. Willow Heights Trail: For a more challenging hike, head to Willow Heights Trail, located near Big Cottonwood Canyon. This 2-mile trail leads you through a stunning aspen forest, and the fall colors here are nothing short of spectacular. Once you reach the top, you’ll be treated to views of the surrounding mountains and a small pond, all framed by vibrant fall foliage.
4. Rattlesnake Gulch Trail: Found in Millcreek Canyon, the Rattlesnake Gulch Trail offers a moderately challenging hike with unbeatable views of the Wasatch Mountains and Salt Lake Valley. The trail’s fall colors are particularly vibrant, with aspens and maples turning a bright array of reds and yellows. It’s the perfect spot for photographers looking to capture Utah’s fall landscapes.
5. Mount Aire Trail: The Mount Aire Trail is a steep 3.2-mile hike located in Millcreek Canyon, and it’s perfect for those who want a bit of a workout while soaking in the fall colors. The trail offers incredible views from the top, with bursts of red, orange, and yellow blanketing the mountains. While challenging, the payoff at the summit is worth every step.
6. Lake Blanche Trail: For a scenic alpine hike with jaw-dropping fall colors, Lake Blanche Trail in Big Cottonwood Canyon is a must-visit. This 7-mile trail is challenging but worth it for the expansive views of towering peaks and golden aspens. As you reach the lake, the reflection of fall colors on the water creates a postcard-worthy scene.
7. Grandeur Peak: Another Millcreek Canyon favorite, the Grandeur Peak Trail is a 5.6-mile out-and-back hike that offers panoramic views of Salt Lake Valley and stunning fall colors along the way. The aspens and oaks lining the trail make for a fantastic fall foliage display, especially as you near the summit. If you’re looking for a hike that combines great views with a challenging ascent, this one should be on your list.
8. Desolation Lake Trail: Also located in Big Cottonwood Canyon, the Desolation Lake Trail is a 7.8-mile hike that provides access to alpine lakes and lush meadows filled with colorful fall leaves. The trees near the lake provide a striking contrast against the backdrop of the surrounding mountains, making this hike perfect for a peaceful autumn escape.
9. Big Water Trail to Dog Lake Trail: Big Water Trail is an moderate 5.6-mile out-and-back hike. The trail takes you through a beautiful forest of aspens, which glow golden in the fall. The lake at the end of the trail is a serene spot to relax and take in the seasonal beauty.
10. Red Pine Lake Trail: For those looking for a more strenuous hike, Red Pine Lake Trail in Little Cottonwood Canyon is a fantastic option. This 7.7-mile roundtrip trail takes you through groves of aspens and pines, with vibrant fall colors appearing in mid to late September. The lake at the end is crystal-clear, reflecting the changing colors of the surrounding trees.
These trails offer some of the best fall hikes for Fall Colors in Northern Utah, giving you the chance to experience autumn in full bloom.
If you’re looking to experience the fall colors but don’t want to get out of the car, we recommend a) driving to a high elevation area (like Guardsman Pass), or checking out Visit Utah’s “11 Utah Scenic Byways for Leaf Peeping” blog post.
Enjoy the views!
