Putting one foot in front of the other, using good old shoe leather, is satisfying for both body and soul. Fall could be the most incredible time to hike the peaks at Deer Valley. Here are four excellent hiking options.

The Silver Lake Trail

My number one pick is Deer Valley’s diverse Silver Lake Trail. As an intermediate hiking trail, the Silver Lake Trail is designated for foot-traffic only. This provides peaceful tranquility while one is wandering through the picturesque landscape. The fall season is a perfect time to hike this trail, just as the aspen leaves are fluttering with their golden hue. The trail is well-marked, well-maintained and is an absolutely gorgeous hike that starts at the bottom of the Silver Lake Express chairlift, ending at the top of Bald Mountain. I found myself wandering through dense forests into wide-open ski runs, with picturesque cliffs on one side and a bird’s-eye view of the Heber Valley on the other. Included in this spectacular hike is a panoramic view of the Jordanelle Reservoir, my favorite part. The last 600 feet of elevation gain is a steep push, but once at the top you’ll enjoy the 360-degree views of Park City and beyond.

The round-trip distance of this hike is about five miles with significant elevation changes (the trail starts at 8,100 feet and climbs up to 9,400 feet).

The Sultan Out and Back Trail

If you are interested in a hike with a bit less of a commitment, the Sultan Out and Back Trail is the perfect choice. From Silver Lake Lodge, walk east past the Nabob Loop biking trails and follow the ridgeline through a grassy meadow. There is a steep dip at the end of the hike…which means there will be a short climb on the return. The Sultan Out and Back Trail is only two miles round-trip, and an excellent choice for youngsters. This hike includes vistas, fall foliage and wildflowers. The Sultan Out and Back is also frequented by a number of animals, so keep a lookout for wildlife including moose, deer and marmots. After 45 minutes, you should get to the end of the trail with a scenic deck and picnic tables. Kick back, relax and enjoy a well-deserved picnic lunch while soaking up the views.

Nabob Loop Hiking Trail

Looking for a Deer Valley® fun and easy hike that is perfect for all levels? The Nabob Loop is about a mile long with just a bit over 100 feet in elevation gain. From Silver Lake Village, head out toward the Sterling Express chairlift. If you are standing below the lift, looking up at it, the Nabob Loop starts to your left, slightly downhill from the start of the Silver Lake Trail and continues through an incredible alpine forest.  

Deer Valley to Main Street Trail

How about a three mile, but mostly downhill hike? Try this hiking route which ends at one of Park City’s biggest attractions… Historic Main Street. This hike not only gives you the colorful fall foliage but it ends with a delicious lunch and shopping. Begin at Deer Valley’s Empire Canyon Lodge and head west on Mid Mountain Trail to Little Chief. Exit at Sam’s Trail and go west at Empire Link to Daly Grind. Follow the two-track road downhill as it becomes Daly Avenue and then Main Street. Enjoy!

More Blogs from Deer Valley:

A Guide to Deer Valley Resort Hiking

Top 7 Fall Activities Near Park City

9 Tips to Make the Most of Summer at Deer Valley

Originally written by Margaret Stevens for Deer Valley Resort.