As the cool fall weather descends on Las Vegas I decided to take a short drive to southern Utah to try and catch some of the fall colors before the first snow fall. The predominant autumn colors of southern Utah are the brilliant yellows and oranges of aspen trees high in the mountains or the rich golden-yellows of cottonwood trees deep in the red rock canyons. Autumn color in southern Utah occurs in two vastly different ecological zones, the first being aspen trees between the elevations of 8,000 and 10,000 feet on the flanks of high-altitude plateaus with their leaves reaching their color peak around the first week of October. The second zone for autumn color is found deep in the red rock canyons, where perennial streams provide life support for thick groves of trees at elevations between 4,000 and 5,000 feet.

Pine Valley is located 160 north of Las Vegas just out side of St. George Utah. The valley offers a great escape from the heat of the southern Utah desert. Visitors can enjoy fishing at the nearby Pine Valley Reservoir and can explore the many hiking trials in the area

On this gorgeous October Sunday we begin our hike at the trail head to the Santa Clara River Walkway. An easy 2.6 miles paved trail that follows the Santa Clara River through the a forest of predominantly Ponderosa Pine. The trail is a wonderful reprieve from the heat of the surrounding desert areas.

After following the river walk you will come upon this beautiful mountain lake where you can enjoy fishing for stocked Rainbow Trout. The lake is surrounded by a forest of ponderosa pine and oak trees, mountain mahogany, juniper and sagebrush dot the landscape

The Pine Valley Recreation Area is the perfect place to come out and enjoy nature. Bring the family out for a picnic or go on one of the many hiking trials. Easy access to this area makes it great for day trips or longer multi day camping trip at one of the many camping areas .