As fall semester rolls out and temperatures drop, Utah County’s trails are seeing a resurgence of hikers hitting the trails.
“The fall season is by far my favorite time to hike in Utah,” Olivia Dent, a BYU senior and hiking enthusiast, said. “The temperatures are perfect, the leaves are gorgeous and the trails are less crowded than in the summer.”
Dent, who has led hiking groups for more than two years, isn’t alone in her love for Utah’s fall hiking season.
Fall foliage on the Wasatch Front
In Provo, it is always time to get out and go for a hike, the Provo Parks and Recreation website said.
For those looking to explore the trails this fall, popular destinations such as Stewart Falls, Mount Timpanogos and the Dry Canyon Trailhead offer panoramic views of the foliage. The Provo River Parkway and Hobble Creek Canyon are also popular spots for more casual walkers or cyclists, according to the website.
Hikers should be prepared for varying trail conditions as the season progresses. According to Utah Search and Rescue Assistance, hikers should have a "know before you go" plan. They should know where they are going and when they will return, be aware of current weather conditions and terrain, and travel with a partner or group.
Utah Search and Rescue Assistance provides additional hiking safety information through a downloadable PDF checklist available on its website.
BYU group hiking events
Hiking in groups is recommended for the safest and most enjoyable experience on the trails.
According to Allie Cross, a BYU Outdoors Unlimited staff member, Autumn brings new opportunities to connect with fellow hiking enthusiasts, get out, get active and take a break from studying with like-minded individuals.
Residents interested in hiking this fall can view current trail information, such as weather and trail conditions, using apps such as AllTrails.