As the leaves start to change color and the temperature starts to cool down, hiking in the fall is an incredible experience, especially in the desert southwest. The air is crisp, the landscape is beautiful, and there are so many fun things to do with family and friends.

I recently took a trip to Kanarra Falls just north of St. George, Utah and was totally taken aback by its beauty. That had me looking around for more hikes to take soon! Fall is here, which means 110 degree temperatures are not. It’s safe to step outside and explore!

Here are some of the reasons why hiking in the fall is the best.

The Weather Is Perfect

One of the best things about hiking in the fall is the weather. It’s not too hot or too cold, which makes for perfect hiking conditions. The desert can be quite hot in the summer, so hiking in the fall is a great time to enjoy the scenery without having to worry about overheating. If you’re looking for a moderate challenge, Fall is also a great time to hike one of Arizona’s “seven summits” – Humphreys Peak, Arizona’s tallest mountain at 12,637 feet.

The Leaves Are Beautiful

Another reason why hiking in the fall is the best is because of all the beautiful leaves. The desert southwest has some of the most incredible fall foliage, and it’s truly a sight to see. Apache Junction is home to Lost Dutchman State Park which is a great place to see all sorts of different trees and plants changing color. Hiking through Lost Dutchman in the fall is an experience you won’t soon forget.

There Are So Many Fun Things To Do With Family And Friends

Finally, hiking in the fall is a great opportunity to spend time with family and friends. There are so many different trails and places to explore, and it’s a great way to get some exercise while spending time together. After a long day of hiking, you can relax around a campfire or enjoy some s’mores under the stars. Hiking in the fall is an activity that everyone can enjoy.

Whether you’re looking for stunning views or wanting to spend time with family and friends, hiking in the fall is an activity that everyone can enjoy. With perfect weather conditions and incredible scenery, there are so many reasons why hiking in the fall is simply the best.

I’ve got five hikes below that are worth checking out. Some are in our own backyard, some are a bit of a drive, but all are worthy of your soles.

• The Wave - Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Kanab, Utah

  The Wave is a popular hike located in the Coyote Buttes area of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. The hike is only 3 miles round trip, but it can be challenging as it involves some scrambling over rocks. The Wave is best hiked in the cooler months as it can be extremely hot in the summer.

• Angel's Landing - Zion National Park, Utah

  Angel’s Landing is a popular hike located in Zion National Park. The hike is 5 miles round trip and involves some steep sections with drop-offs. Angel’s Landing is best hiked in the cooler months as well, as it can be very hot in the summer.

• Bryce Canyon Rim Trail - Bryce Canyon, Utah

  The Bryce Canyon Rim Trail is a popular hike that runs along the rim of Bryce Canyon National Park. The trail is 13 miles long and can be hiked in one day or broken up into shorter sections. The trail offers stunning views of the canyon and is best hiked in the spring or fall when the weather is cooler.

• Valley of Fire State Park - Nevada

  Valley of Fire State Park is located just outside of Las Vegas and offers a variety of hiking trails. One of the most popular trails is the 3-mile round trip hike to Mouse’s Tank, which features petroglyphs (rock art) dating back over 700 years. Valley of Fire State Park is open year-round, but it can be very hot in the summer months.

• Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area - Nevada

  Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is located just outside of Las Vegas and offers a variety of hiking trails ranging from easy to difficult. One of the most popular trails is the 3-mile round trip Calico Tanks Trail, which features stunning views of the sandstone cliffs that make up the area. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is open year-round, but it can be very hot in the summer months.

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