Crazy Hiker Chick: 2013-10-06

Thursday, October 10, 2013

Mount Aire

The Elbow Fork trail to the summit of Mount Aire is a really, really nice autumn afternoon hike. The colors in the canyon this time of year are spectacular! Once again a delightful feast for the eyes. Elbow Fork trail is located about 6 miles up Millcreek Canyon road. You will find ample parking and a rest room at the trailhead. The hike to Mount Aire is a steep one, you gain 1991 feet in just 1.8 miles.

After climbing 1 mile you will come to a saddle looking down into Parleys Canyon. The trail to the summit of Mount Aire continues to the right where you will begin a series of switchbacks as you make your way to the top. I've climbed Mount Aire four times now and fall on a cooler day is hands down the best time to do this hike.

When you reach the summit you will enjoy an incredible 360-degree panorama of Gobblers Knob, Mount Raymond, Parleys Canyon, East Canyon, Salt Lake Valley with Antelope Island and Mount Olympus. BREATHE DEEP AND TAKE IN THE VIEWS!

BUT . . . . The absolute highlight of my hike yesterday was seeing not one, not two, but three moose on the trail. Up close and almost too personal. Two bull moose and one female. We were close enough to hear their grunted conversation! The young bull started following us up the trail which was a little unsettling. The whole experience of being so close to these magnificent animals was AWESOME!

IMPORTANT NOTE: There is a gate at Maple Grove picnic area which is 1.5 miles down the canyon from the Elbow Fork trailhead that will close beginning November 1 and not open again until July 1.

There were so many cool sights on this trail to share. Have a look!