Utah's fall colors are in full bloom

As the air becomes crisp and elk bugle in the mountains, many Utah families pack up their cars and drive through the canyons to view spectacular fall colors. Autumn colors are now in full swing as reds and oranges color the green maple foliage. Golden aspens now adorn the higher elevations.

Colors are now reaching their peak but should remain spectacular unless serious storms blow the leaves off. Color hunters are encouraged to head out early and often to capture the beauty throughout the entire season. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy this limited opportunity before it is gone.

Provo Canyon to Heber Valley (U.S. 189): Travel along the famous Provo River to Deer Creek Reservoir. This heavily traveled road provides views of Bridal Veil Falls, fishing along the Provo River and beautiful colors along the rocky ledges. Deer Creek Reservoir provides boating and fishing opportunities at the top of the canyon. The Heber Valley Historic Railroad may be an excellent way to view the colors and enjoy the ride.

Alpine Loop: The Alpine Loop Scenic Highway is perhaps one of the most spectacular and popular scenic drives. This 20-mile drive begins at the bottom of American Fork Canyon on U-92 and connects to Provo Canyon on U.S. 189. It travels by Sundance Resort and provides opportunities for hiking around Mount Timpanogos. Cascade Springs is a nice stopping point to stretch your legs and enjoy the colors. This route is paved but narrow in places.

Mount Nebo Scenic Loop: This 45-mile trip provides views of golden quaking aspen, crimson red scrub oak and maple, and tall dark pines. Many recreational activities exist along the route, which include fishing at the Payson Lakes, camping, hiking and photographing. This tour begins at Payson and ends at U-132, east of Nephi.

Squaw Peak Road to Hobble Creek: Turning south from U.S. 189, this 26-mile route provides outstanding views overlooking Utah Valley to the west and beautiful Pole Canyon on the east, draped in red leaves. This paved byway becomes a rough dirt road shortly after the Squaw Peak overlook and continues to Hobble Creek Canyon.

Big Cottonwood Canyon to Brighton: Follow I-215 to the 6200 South "Canyons" exit. U-152 provides a beautiful 15-mile ride to Solitude and Brighton Ski Resorts, where aspen and scrub oak highlight thick pine forests.