Big Springs Hollow Loop

If you’re hunting for fall photos, Utah puts on a pretty good show. Big Springs Hollow is full of reds, yellows, and oranges, and it’s a popular spot for family pictures. There were plenty of groups posing among the trees—some with enough relatives to qualify as their own small hiking club.

I’m glad I listened to my husband and we followed the full loop instead of stopping where most people seemed to. The trail starts out easy and nearly flat, which is a lovely way to build confidence before it sends you down the mountain. The scenery along the loop is beautiful, and the full route gives you more than a quick photo stop among the leaves.

My dogs loved it. After the hike, you can relax by the stream and have lunch, which is a strong finish for both humans and dogs who’ve been patiently waiting for the snacks to come out.

One thing to know: many visitors seem to come mainly for the photos, and not as many complete the full loop. If you do continue, you’ll get a quieter, longer hike—and a well-earned lunch by the water.