Utah is absolutely a four-season playground. No matter the season, there’s always something fun to do. Yes, we might be famous for our amazing winters and having some of the best skiing in the world, but when it comes to sheer beauty, fall has a special place in our hearts.
Maybe it’s because the season is so fleeting. Maybe because it’s a reprieve from the summer heat. Maybe it’s the exciting build-up before ski season. Whatever the reason, fall in Utah is a beautiful time of year filled with promise and fun (but also a few important to-do items to get out of the way).
Here’s how to enjoy fall in Utah.
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First, the Fun
Autumn in Utah is an extension of summer when it comes to activities. The only difference? It’s not so darn hot! If you love enjoying the outdoors but wish it were just slightly less warm, fall is for you. But that’s hardly the best part. The spectacular changing leaves in the fall completely transform our landscape into something magical. Some of the best fall activities in Utah include:
- Mountain Biking – It’s a little less hot out, so you can wear more layers and go for longer rides. Whether you’re heading out for a ride on the local black diamond Bobsled or Lost Lad trails, or just taking an easy spin on the Jordan River Trail, there’s no better way to spend a crisp fall day than on two wheels!
- Hiking – Salt Lake City has some of the most glorious trails all within city limits. In the fall, hiking is a great way to appreciate the fall colors. In addition to the local trails, we also recommend hiking around Big and Little Cottonwood Canyon, Silver Lake, and Mount Timpanogos if you’re looking for something different! Many ski resorts also offer fall foliage chairlift rides, where you can take the chairlift to the top and then hike trails at a higher altitude.
- Driving – A family drive on a lazy afternoon is made even more special when the leaves start to change. Guardsman Pass is a great trip to take with breathtaking mountain views.
What about the weather? Unlike spring, which is known around here as ‘mud season,’ fall is much more amenable to a little rain. The trails are usually a little parched from the dry summer months, so a little rain in the fall is not the end of the world.
But if you’re making outdoor plans in the fall, don’t sit on them for too long. Autumn in Utah is fleeting, and although the weather is nice now, it can change quickly. Before you know it, the snow will be flying!
Which brings us to the next point…
Looking for more fun ways to spend a day in Salt Lake City? Check out these posts next:
- Mountain Biking From Your Back Door
- Our Favourite Spot For White Water Rafting Near Salt Lake City
- 5 Quintessential Winter Activities in Salt Lake City
Preparing Yourself For Winter
It might seem premature, but any local knows that fall is the best time to prepare for the ski season ahead. Here’s a quick checklist to help you prepare:
- Get your ski passes – Whether you’re looking for an Ikon or Epic Pass, or you’re looking for a pass at your favorite mountain, there are often deals to be had in the fall when it comes to buying a ski pass.
- Get your skis serviced – If you simply put your skis away at the end of last season, you should look into getting them serviced. Shops will only get busier as we approach ski season. Get them serviced now so you don’t have to wait later!
- Rental packages – If you rely on renting skis in the winter, it’s a good idea to get your packages sorted ahead of time. Much like the ski passes, many businesses have deals throughout the fall for early birds.
- Book ski school – Are you planning on taking lessons or signing your kids up for ski school? Spots fill up quickly. The earlier you can sign up, the better.
- Buy a parking pass – Maybe one of the most boring, yet most important things to do is to buy a parking pass at your ski hill of choice. A seasonal parking pass means you don’t have to pay to park every time you ski. Just drive to the lot, park your car and go. An easy parking situation definitely sets the tone for a good day on the hills.
Is a new adventure calling your name? If part of that journey involves buying a new house, start by browsing a few of our featured listings.
Prepare Your Home For Winter
As a homeowner in Salt Lake City, you have to strike a perfect balance between keeping your home in good shape and enjoying the amazing outdoor amenities we have on offer all year long. Salt Lake City winters are long, and extreme weather conditions can be hard on your home.
We always advise doing a walkthrough of your property every year when we change the clocks back. Some things you should check include:
- Make sure your smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detectors have fresh batteries
- Inspect your HVAC system for any damage and replace air filters
- Make sure your water heater is in good working condition and your pipes are insulated or otherwise protected from outdoor elements
- Make sure your outdoor hose bib is completely turned off and not dripping
- Inspect and clean areas like under the sink, behind your washer/dryer, and fridge
- Ensure your gutters are clear of built-up debris like dead leaves
- If you have more delicate plants on your property, you might want to wrap them in burlap to protect them from harsh weather
- Make sure your snow blower is functioning properly; you don’t want to find out it’s broken during the first snowstorm of the year
- Alternatively, if you outsource your snow removal, make sure you call to get everything set up. Many snow removal companies also offer early bird deals
Looking for some tips to streamline the home-buying process? Here are a few posts to help you out:
- Home Inspections—Are They Necessary?
- What to Consider Before Buying Your New Home
- Have I Waited Too Long to Buy a Home? Advice for First-Time Buyers of All Ages
Fall in Utah Is Busy but Fun
Fall in Utah is a special time of year. It’s the calm before the storm, so to speak, but still quite a busy and active time of the year! Between preparing your home for winter and enjoying some recreational time outside, there’s a lot going on.
If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home this fall or winter, now is the time to get started!
Get in touch with us directly at 801.949.9878 or email us at julia@juliasplan.com to see how we can make the buying and selling process seamless, enjoyable, and successful.
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