In my opinion, the number one most underrated thing Utah has to offer is our rocky mountains. They are no joke right in our backyard! It took me just one short 10-minute drive to get to these incredible beauties. Denver can't even say that. I didn't even knock one notch on my gas tank during this entire drive. This is seriously saying something since I drive a Jeep Wrangler.
The first two weeks of October require a family drive up into the mountains. There aren't many prettier sites to see. The trees are in the perfect transition from green to gone. Don't go too late or you might miss it! It only takes one cold storm to roll through and wipe away all the leaves. Or even worse, it could snow! So definitely make sure to go early, but not too early... it's a balancing act for sure. We went on October 2nd and it was perfect.
This year we decided to take immigration canyon east to dell reservoir and south to 1-80. This makes a short 20-minute drive that is easy but still amazing. Immigration canyon starts just right above the Hogle Zoo. But be aware, this road does see quite a lot of bikers. If you take your time and are not in a rush, they won't bother you at all. But if you are someone who sometimes panics.... this route might not be for you. There is the cutest little restaurant at the base of the canyon that usually has a 2-3 hour wait for brunch. So, unfortunately, we haven't been able to go this year. But just the short 5 minute drive up to this restaurant and you'll see plenty of pretty trees.
At the top of the canyon, you'll see an overlook that has a parking lot and the start of a hike. This is a must-take picture spot and is usually the turnaround spot for all the bikers. Past this, you'll head down to the Dell reservoir. Unfortunately, Dell reservoir is the main water source for Salt Lake City, so we couldn't bring our dog. You can also head north-east past Dell to East Canyon State Park. They do allow dogs there and the smaller road to get there is very pretty as well. We wanted to keep our trip short, so instead, we ate lunch at the overlook. It had just as nice of views. If you don't have a dog with you, know that Dell reservoir is $5 to drive all the way down to the water. There is a free parking lot just to the left where you can get just as pretty of pictures in my opinion.
And that's it! After Dell reservoir, if you turn right and head south you'll end up directly on 1-80 which is only a 5-minute drive back into the city. This route is perfect for a busy family that will only have 30 minutes to kill. (or someone who doesn't want to use too much gas like me).
There are plenty of other amazing drives you can take here in Utah. My absolute favorite is in Huntsville Utah. Take the scenic backway to Pineview reservoir for amazing views of rolling hills. That one is about a 1-hour drive there and a 1 hour back to Salt Lake. Also a more popular route to up in the high Unitas over to Mirror Lake. This can get pretty busy but the views are worth it. This is about 2 hours there and 2 hours back to Salt Lake City.
Wherever you go, just make sure to go! This is such an easy family-friendly activity that'll get you into the fall spirit.
Comments
Post a Comment