Depending where you are in the state, or I guess what elevation you are at, spring starts in varying stages. For example, it won’t be until late May when spring shows its face in the upper Cottonwood Canyons. Snow shoeing or skiing can still be enjoyed well past the time the ski resorts close down for the winter season. l But just down the road at the base of the canyon, flowers are blooming and people are hiking around in shorts.
Snowy Sunset in Little Cottonwood Canyon
As I eagerly await the mountain roads and passes to open for the summer and the more remote places of Utah become more accessible, it is a great time of year to explore the valleys and benches of the the Wasatch Mountains. In spring, snow-capped, glacier-sculpted peaks gradually change to a vibrant green and wildflowers begin to bloom. April and May provide some very pleasant and cooler conditions for hiking. Bring a jacket though, as it can get cold quick.
Cloudy Spring Sunset in Salt Lake City, Utah
Great hikes and walks are to be had just minutes from downtown Salt Lake City. The Bonneville Shoreline Trail or the short but steep hike up to Ensign Peak are great opportunities to see some great views of the valley.
As the temperatures warm up a bit, the snow and ice will fully melt from some of my favorite trails in the canyons and higher elevations of the Wasatch. I’m eager to get out and spend more time in my home mountains. But in the meantime, it has given me good opportunities to visit some other places in and around Salt Lake City.
Spring Night in Salt Lake City
Great Salt Lake
The Great Salt Lake is an acquired taste. It really is unlike any other lake and can be somewhat off putting if you don’t know how to really appreciate it and its beauty. Don’t come anticipating the nice sandy beaches you can lay out your beach towel. Instead, bring the bug spray, shoes you don’t mind getting dirty, plenty of water, and take some time exploring the intriguing and beautiful landscapes.
The Night Sky
It is now that time of year when the core of the Milky Way begins to show itself in the Northern Hemisphere. Utah offers some great locations away from the light-polluted cities to find some dark skies where you can easily see the Milky Way with the naked eye. But using a good quality camera and right techniques, you can see the Milky Way in a way which seems almost unworldly.
Lone Rock and the Milky Way in skull Valley, Utah
Leaving Town
Sunset at Salt Lake City Int’l Airport
I’m leaving Utah for a bit to see some other beautiful places. When I return, I’m anticipating some great hiking conditions in the Wasatch. Until then, you can follow along with my travels in my Instagram and Facebook feeds! I’ll see you in a few weeks!
