Hiking You can hike year round in Utah's Southwest Color Country. The variety of climates and altitudes let you plan a comfortable hike every day or weekend of the year. During the hot summer months, hike the high country like the Fishlake National Forest, the Dixie National Forest, or the Tushar Mountains. In the mild days of early summer or early fall, explore the trails in the depths of Bryce Canyon or the Grand Canyon. In the surprisingly mild days of early spring or late fall, the semi-desert areas like Kodachrome Basin, the Paria Canyon Primitive Area, or the Escalante Canyons are perfect. Even in the winter Snow Canyon and other low-lying areas are ideal for hiking.

Some of the most popular and impressive spots to backpack are in the national parks. The well marked trails in Zion National Park vary in distance. The shorter trails are fun even for children; other trails are more challenging. The Narrows area is particularly rugged and a permit is required. Since the trail leads through an impressively narrow canyon, there is danger from flash flooding if the weather is inclement. Any trip for more than a day requires hikers to register at one of the visitor centers in the park.

Spring and autumn are ideal for hiking the canyons in the Boulder and Escalante areas. You'll find hundreds of trails in this area and the desert at its best. The desert temperatures make hiking uncomfortably hot and a little dangerous during the summer months. But the higher elevations to the north like Boulder Mountain and the Aquarius Plateau are pleasant for summer hiking. In fact, part of the Great Western Trail passes through the area. To the west, Cedar Breaks and Cedar Mountain in the Dixie National Forest offer several trails with a variety of scenery and excellent vistas.

You'll find alpine meadows and thick pine forests along the Pine Valley trails in the Dixie National Forest that will keep you coming back time after time. Trailheads are usually just off established campgrounds. As in most areas, hikers should carry their own water, or boil any water on overnight hikes. Prepare for your hiking excursion. Since the climate and terrain is so widely varied throughout Color Country, it's a good idea to check with the local visitor center for information on that particular area.

The beauty of hiking in Color Country is the isolation and the varied terrain. But remember that most hiking areas are remote. Check with the local Forest Service, the BLM office, or park service before planning a trip. Most have detailed maps of the area. Topographic maps, a compass, water, food, extra clothing, and emergency first aid kit should be among the items you take on any lengthy hike. And, of course, let someone know where you are going and when you'll return.