The first tinges of fall color are seeping into trees at higher elevations. A hint of pale green here, a trace of amber there. Soon the aspens will be ablaze in caution yellow, warning that winter is just ahead.
There's no better way to see nature's fall display than from the back of a mountain bike. And Utah is still in a golden age as far as the sport goes - the trails are plentiful and the crowds are thin.So while there's still fine fall weather to be had, grab your bike and head for the hills. Here's a listing of mountain bike trails we suggest - two in Provo and two near Strawberry Reservoir:
Willow Creek in the Strawberry Valley
Uinta Forest Officer Julie Jensen recommends this ride. It's easy, as much fun as a waterpark - and potentially just as wet - and scenic.
Bring binoculars and watch for birds, deer and other wildlife. Beaver have dammed up a section of stream along the north loop of the ride. Many wildflowers are still blooming through the meadows, particularly mountain bluebells and thistle.
But the best part of the ride is the dirt road that passes through a shallow stream seven times. Kids love it! Just after the third stream crossing you'll see what's known as a "hog's back" formation on your left. The rock ridge runs up the side of the mountain and then comes back out on the north section of the loop.
Note that the Willow Creek loop is open to motorized vehicles and dispersed camping is allowed in the area. My family tried the ride over the Labor Day holiday; we encountered only two other groups of bicyclists, three cars and three campsites.
Also, there is a section of fairly steep hill. I admit I'm a wimp. I walked my bike up part of the hill.
To get there, take U.S. 189 up Provo Canyon to Heber, then go right (southeast) on U.S. 40 to Daniels Canyon. Turn left at the Strawberry River sign marker, about 22 miles up Daniels Canyon and just before the Strawberry Visitors Center. Take the graveled road to the junction marked "092." That's where you park your car, haul out your bikes and head out. The loop ride is about nine miles long.
Clyde Creek/Mud Creek Loop
Here's another nice ride at Strawberry recommended by Jensen, which begins just beyond the Strawberry Visitors Center.
This 14-mile loop route climbs up Clyde Creek, along the Strawberry Ridge and back down Mud Creek. Along the ridge you get a spectacular view that sweeps from Lone Peak in the north to Mount Nebo in the south.
About half the route is graveled; the road is also open to motorized vehicles. It passes through nice sections of aspen and pine trees. It is rated as an "intermediate" route in recognition of the lengthy climb to the ridge.
To get there, take U.S. 189 through Provo Canyon to Heber, and then head right (southeast) on U.S. 40 to Daniels Canyon. Turn right at the Strawberry Visitors Center marker. Travel just past the center to Clyde Creek (Forest route 299). Park your vehicle near the cattle corrals and get pedaling.
Provo River Parkway
One of two trailers a little closer to home, this is an easy trail that meanders through the southwest part of Provo down to Utah Lake.
The trail passes through parks, horse pastures and along the river before spilling out near the lake. Most of the trail is graveled.
Start your ride on Columbia Lane, just west of Provo Fire Station No. 3. at about 600 West. The ride is about nine miles round trip.
Provo River/Canyon Parkway
This is also an easy trail that travels along the north end of University Avenue and then up Provo Canyon. You can ride as far as Nunn's Park.
The trail is paved to the mouth of the canyon; it's dirt beyond that point. You have to cross two train trestles on the canyon portion of the route. Children can handle the round-trip ride, which is about 10 miles long, just fine.
Start your ride on the paved trail behind Will's Pit Stop, 36 W. 3700 North and head north.