The Wasatch Mountains, decked in autumn, were calling to us as we spent the first couple of days of our vacation in Salt Lake City. For our first jaunt, we decided to hike up Bells Canyon to the first waterfall, an out-and-back hike of about 4 miles.

Our hike began with a series of switchbacks that tested our adjustment to the altitude. Then the trail stretched out to our right and led us to a beautiful reservoir. In it was reflected the deep blue of the sky and the changing colors of the trees and shrubbery. The scene was truly serene.

From the reservoir we got onto a service road briefly, which took us to the trail upward to the lower waterfall. The ascent was moderate until we reached and crossed the creek. When we reached the steepest part of the ascent, up a linear pile of rocks, we were about thirty minutes from the waterfall. To get to the waterfall, one must take a spur that breaks off to one’s left, around a huge tree, and then descend a rather slippery hillside. The effort, however, is well worth it.