Is there anything better than fall? The cooler temperatures, crisp air, and stunning fall foliage are just a few reasons why this is the perfect season to head outdoors and enjoy some of Mother Nature’s greatest creations. One of the best ways to enjoy the fall months is to go on a hike. You don’t need a long trek, a short-and-sweet fall hike with a spectacular end view will do the trick. Here are just seven of our favorite short, easy, and beautiful fall hikes in Utah.

1. Silver Lake Loop, Big Cottonwood Canyon

Near the Solitude Nordic Center in Big Cottonwood Canyon is Silver Lake. This loop trail is just over one mile and a large portion of this trail is ADA-accessible. If you tackle this trail when fall foliage has hit its peak, everywhere you look you’ll see the most incredible colors — you won’t want to forget your camera on this fall hike in Utah.

2. Emerald Pools Trail, Zion National Park

The Emerald Pools Trail is a popular trail in Zion National Park all year long, but we particularly love to explore this trail during the fall. This trail is three miles round trip and the fall foliage against the red rocks is breathtaking. Plus, don’t forget, you’ll be treated to views of pools and small waterfalls — this hike truly has it all.

3. Grotto Falls

Grotto Falls is a short 0.6-mile out-and-back trail along the Mount Nebo Scenic Byway. You will walk through stunning fall foliage as you follow a stream on your way to the small falls. The trail is easy and well-trafficked, making it the perfect family adventure.

4. Wind Caves, Logan Canyon

Approximately five miles up Logan Canyon you will find the Wind Caves Trail. This is a 3.5-mile out-and-back trail where you’ll capture incredible views and walk through beautiful fall foliage. Once you reach the top of this trail, spend some time just admiring the views — you won’t regret it.

5. Cascade Springs, Alpine Loop

Cascade Springs is one of Utah’s most popular hiking trails to view fall foliage and rightly so. During peak leaf-peeping season, this area comes alive with the most vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. There are three different loop trails you can tackle that total less than one mile and two loops are fully handicapped accessible. This is one of the most kid-friendly fall hikes in Utah and you won’t want to miss it each year.

6. Willow Heights Lake, Big Cottonwood Canyon

While beautiful all year long, the Willow Heights Trail is one of our favorite trails in the autumn. This is a 2.4-mile loop trail, and while it is one of the steeper trails on our list, we couldn’t leave it off. All along the trail, you’ll encounter gorgeous hues of red, yellow, and orange. Once you reach the lake, be prepared for the most incredible views — it’s absolutely stunning!

7. Temple Quarry, Little Cottonwood Canyon

If you want a quick stroll through fall foliage, the Temple Quarry Trail will not disappoint. This is a 0.3-mile paved loop trail. The trail takes you near the quarry where the pioneers used to mine rocks to build the Salt Lake City Temple. Short, easy, and beautiful — this is one fall hike in Utah that definitely deserves to be on your bucket list.

What are your favorite fall hikes in Utah? Are there any hiking trails you'd recommend to view fall foliage in Utah? Let us and your fellow fall lovers know in the comments!