Utah is a well-known destination for winter sports, and soon, the snow will start to pile up, and the masses will make their way up the canyons to one of the many world-class resorts found throughout the Wasatch Range.

Don’t make a rookie mistake and look past the spectacular season upon us now. In case you haven’t noticed, autumn is in the air.

The mornings are cool and crisp, the days are getting shorter and shorter, and the leaves are starting to show their fall colors.

Here are some exciting local trails worth hitting before the leaves fall and the snow flies:

Lake Blanche Trail – Big Cottonwood Canyon, Salt Lake City.

Lake Blanche Trail is a moderate to difficult hike totaling 6.7 miles round trip.

The payoff is a spectacular view of the canyon and valley below, as well as picturesque Sun Dial Peak towering over the lake.

“Lake Blanche is an epic hike that everyone should do at least once in their life,” hiking enthusiast Curtis Lord said. “It a challenge, but the payoff is huge!”

The Lake Blanche Trailhead is 4.4 miles up Big Cottonwood Canyon in the Mill B South Fork picnic area.

Sardine Peak / Lookout Trail – Snowbasin Resort, Huntsville.

The Sardine Peak or Lookout Trail is a moderate hike, totaling about 6 miles round trip.

“My favorite thing about the Lookout Trail is that it’s mostly shaded, close to home and fun to hike or bike,” Weber State alumnus Justin Meyers said.

The trail follows a closed campground road to a single track trail that crisscrosses the hill side up through aspen and maple trees.

You’ll be rewarded with an impressive overlook — and a nice bench to rest on — that peers into Ogden Canyon and the valley below.

Look to the East and South for a fantastic view of Pineview Reservoir and Trappers Loop.

You will find the trail head at the Northwest end of Snowbasin’s lower parking lot —look for the gated dirt road that heads East to the hillside.

Birdsong Trail – Rainbow Gardens, Ogden.

Birdsong Trail is an outstanding beginners hike that totals two miles round trip.

The trail passes six natural springs and a small pond.

“The trail is close to campus, and it’s short, making it ideal for Weber State students who are looking for a little exercise and relaxation,” Weber State freshman Chelsea Martinez said.

You can find the trail head in the Southwest corner of the Rainbow Gardens parking lot at the mouth of Ogden Canyon.

Before setting out on any hike, be sure to check the forecast and dress appropriately for the conditions. Take plenty of water, some light snacks and a cell phone with you.

It’s also prudent to invite someone along to enjoy the hike with you and let others know what your plans are and when you expect to be home.

Get out an enjoy these local hikes while the autumn weather lasts.