Hikes in Utah
From the famous southwestern deserts to the mountains and jagged peaks east of Salt Lake City, Utah is an outdoors lovers paradise. Utah is a great state to find adventure, with plenty of opportunities to hike, bike, ski, climb or canoe the most beautiful parts of this state. The best part is that there is a way to get outside any time of the year, thanks to the hot deserts in winter and the alpine peaks in summer.
Utah has to have the most variety of terrain out of any state in the US. We love the national parks in Utah, such as Zion, Canyonlands, Bryce and Arches National Parks. There are also great national forests, with our favourite being Uinta-Wasatch.
While Utah is known for their deserts and canyons, there are also stunning mountains throughout the state. Head east of Salt Lake City and up into the Little or Big Cottonwood Canyons and explore some of the best hiking, skiing and trekking in the US. Head farther east and you hit the remote and beautiful Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. Largely undeveloped, the hikes from the highway are sublime.
And who can forget the mountain biking paradise of Moab. Regarded as the mecca for mountain bikers, this small-town oozes coolness, and is one of our favourite towns in the US.
20 Greatest Hikes in Utah
Immerse yourself into the varying terrain of Utah for an adventure of a lifetime. Hike through cavernous, dusty-red canyons, or perhaps hit the desert for an epic walk past towering cactuses and unique rock formations that will have you feeling like you’ve landed on another planet. For a more challenging day out in nature, why not try hiking up one of the surrounding mountain summits to get the legs burning? There are plenty of options, you just have to pick one and hit the trails!
- Fairyland Loop Trail: Take in some of the most unique clusters of hoodoo formations in Bryce Canyon park on the aptly named Fairyland Loop trail
- Cassidy Trail: This challenging, but seriously epic hike is a can’t miss in Little Bryce Canyon. Slowly increasing in elevation with an exposed ridgeline, take in incredible views over Mexican Peak Hat.
- Queens Garden to Navajo Loop Trail: While crowded at times, this popular trail is one of the best ways to explore Bryce Canyon’s famous hoodoos and stunning rock formations.
- Delicate Arch: If you’re visiting Moab National Park, you’re going to want to see the famed arches that are one of the most photographed spots in the world. This hike has extreme elevation grade, but it’s worth it to see the natural landmarks at the top.
- Dead Horse Point: Incredible views from start to finish, this hike in Moab National Park will knock your socks, err hiking boots, right off!
- Fisher Towers: This trail is loved by locals and travellers alike for its views over scenic sandstone towers, the expansive valley and the famous Colorado River.
- Devils Garden Loop: To take in all the breathtaking arches located within Moab National Park, you’ll want to hike this loop passing Pine Tree Arch, Landscape Arch, Tunnel Arch and more.
- Grandstaff Trail: This hike remains a classic for good reason, as hikers traverse a narrow canyon and end at Morning Glory Bridge–– this is a can’t miss experience. With little elevation gain, this makes for a great family-friendly hike.
- Red Pine Lake & Pfeifferhorn Ridge: For an epic, highly rewarding hike, climb the Pfeifferhorn Ridge, which involves some scrambling to reach the top! Once at the summit, enjoy 360-degree views as far as the eye can see.
- Box Elder Peak: With incredible elevation change, this hike is not for the faint of heart. Ascend up the ridge of Box Elder Peak to take in views over much of Salt Lake City and beyond.
- Silver Lake: To enjoy peace and tranquility near Salt Lake City, head to Silver Lake, which remains largely unexplored in part due to its 4.8 km dirt road access. Once you arrive, jump in for a refreshing dip to cool off!
- Sunset Peak: To experience the best of the alpine lakes Utah has to offer, try the Sunset Peak hike. Passing Dog Lake, Lake Mary, Lake Martha and Lake Catherine, you’re guaranteed a few photo-worthy moments!
- Bald Mountain Trail: For some of the best views of all of Utah, set out on the classic Bald Mountain hike. While short and grueling, you won’t regret it once you get to the top!
- The Narrows: Prepare to get soaked on this epic thru-canyon hike! This is more of a wade, but it's worth it to take the canyon from ground level.
- Angel's Landing: Set out on arguably the most popular hike in all of Zion National Park to take in some of the most incredible views. Don’t underestimate the climb, it’s a tough, but worthwhile pursuit!
- Hidden Canyon: This hike is perfect for those a little shorter on time, who want to pass some of the switchbacks to Observation Point. Take in all the best views of Zion National Park, without the challenging climbs.
- Portal Overlook: Often overlooked for other trails in Moab, this hike offers serine, well-graded paths, while still hitting the highlights of the park.
- Devil's Garden: If you’re short on time, this hike runs down an incredible narrow canyon, passing picturesque sandstone cliffs and desert towers on the way.
- Balanced Rock: No trip is complete to Moab without spotting the unique balanced rock. This odd rock formation is a quick jaunt from the parking lot if you’re short on time.
- Mossy Cave Trail: Short and sweet, this trail runs past dozens of hoodoos and ends at the stunning Tropic Ditch Falls, perfect for a family-friendly afternoon.
When is the Best Time to Hike in Utah
Our favourite time to hike in Utah is the shoulder seasons: spring and fall. The months of April-May and September-October offer incredible weather, with sunny, moderate temperatures. You can expect the occasional cool spell or rainy day during the shoulder seasons, but it’s far too hot to hike during the summer months without breaking a major sweat and risking heat stroke.
Best Regions to Hike in Utah
There are endless opportunities for hiking in the great Utah wilderness! But to help you out, we’ve narrowed it down to our absolute favourite regions within the state. Bryce Canyon National Park is famous for its incredible desert scenery, ranging from hoodoos to canyons to cactuses. Moab and Arches National Park is much-loved among the mountain biking community and incredible natural arches scattered throughout the parks. Salt Lake City is the perfect destination where urban meets the outdoors, with plenty to see and do in and around the city. Just 120.7 km east of Salt Lake, lies another incredible mountain town that often lies under the radar. Uintas Mountains offers plenty of epic mountains to conquer, as well as pristine lakes perfect for a dip. Perhaps one of the most notable regions, Zion National Park is high on the bucket list for its sandstone rocks, the stunning Virgin River and verdant plant life.
Other Activities in Utah
Utah is an outdoor lovers paradise. There are few places quite like it in the world, nevermind the U.S. You can accomplish any outdoor adventure calling your name, whether it be mountain biking, scrambling, skiing, rock climbing, kayaking, white water rafting, or even horseback riding. You name it, they got it.
How to Plan a Trip to Utah
Dreaming of planning your dream hiking vacation in Utah? We’ve got you covered with our complete guides on planning a trip to the red rocky state, outlining the best spots far and wide for food and a cold beer, cozy hotels, and fun activities to fill your day. From Bryce Canyon National Park, to Zion National Park, to Moab and Arches National Park, to Salt Lake City, to Uintas Mountains—we took out all the guesswork, leaving more time for hitting the trails.
Hiking regions in Utah
Best Hikes in Utah
The Joint Trail
The Joint Trail is a unique section of trail on the south side of Chesler Park that passes through a joint. A joint is a fracture in the rock that creates a narrow passageway with smooth, straight walls. This hike is reminiscent of the slot canyons found in famous parks like Zion, and is truly a unique little section of trail in Canyonlands National Park.
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Upper Bells Canyon Trail
The Upper Bells Canyon Trail is a challenging route in the Lone Peak Wilderness Area east of Salt Lake City. This route ascends over 1,280 m with a steep and consistent climb along a rocky trail. If you are up for the challenge, this trail will reward you with incredible views and an experience you won’t forget.
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- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Zion Narrows: Bottom up to Big Springs
The Narrows Hike is one of the most popular destinations in Zion National Park. The Bottom-up to Big Springs Trail follows the Zion riverside pathway to a constriction, where hikers must get in the water and wade their way through the narrowing of the canyon. Gorgeous views and epic photo-ops await those who make their way through this iconic section of Zion.
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The Narrows: Top-Down
The Top-Down Trail through the Narrows is an epic adventure through a stunning section of the main canyon. This hike, which features waterfalls and towering canyon walls, can be done in one big day or as an overnighter. A Zion Wilderness Permit is required to hike this trail and can be obtained either online or through the Zion Wilderness Desk.
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The Zion Narrows Riverside Walk
The Zion Narrows Riverside Trail is a scenic stroll along the Virgin river to the mouth of the Narrows. This trail is wheelchair and stroller-friendly for the first 0.6 km. The Zion Narrows Riverside walk has spectacular views and requires little time and effort. Enjoying this trail as a sunset stroll with the whole family is a great way to wind down and cap off the day exploring Zion.
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The Subway Trail
The Subway Trail is an iconic hike in Zion National Park that features paleontological wonders, breathtaking waterfalls and the picturesque Subway rock formation. This hike is a full-day, semi-technical trek and is recommended for experienced hikers only. A backcountry permit is required to access this route.
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The Watchman Trail
The Watchman trail is a popular out-and-back trail just north of Springdale, UT. This hike is family-friendly, and is a great place to see wildlife such as bighorn sheep. The Watchman Trail ends at an outlook, where hikers can get a fantastic view of the valley and of Watchman’s summit.
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La Verkin Creek Trail to Kolob Arch
The La Verkin Creek Trail is a challenging, moderately trafficked trail that leads to the Kolob Arch formation in Zion National Park. This hike can be done in one, long day, or can be broken up into a multi-day backpacking trip. This trail hosts 13 campsites for those who wish to extend their stay along the La Verkin Creek Trail.
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Observation Point via The East Mesa Trail
Observation Point via the East Mesa Trail is a popular out-and-back day hike tucked in the corner of Zion National Park. This hike is the easiest way to access Observation Point: an overlook that is over 213 m higher than Angel’s Landing. The hike down this well-maintained trail will earn hikers absolutely magnificent views of the valley below.
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The West Rim Trail (Top Down)
Do it all in one big day! The West Rim Trail Top-Down route from Lava Point is an ambitious day hike that takes you past some of the most popular and scenic sections of Zion National Park. This hike can be done as a big day hike or broken up into a multi-day backpacking trip. Campsites are available for use along the West Rim trail with a Zion Wilderness Permit.
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Lower Emerald Pool Trail
The Lower Emerald Pool Trail is a paved walkway up to the Emerald Pools near Zion Lodge. This is a family-friendly walk that awards beautiful views of the Virgin River babbling away against a backdrop of burnt-orange sandstone. This out-and back hike is a scenic access route to the lower Emerald Pool, a deep, natural basin sourced by a gentle waterfall.
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Middle Fork of Taylor Creek Trail
The Middle Fork of Taylor Creek is an easy-to-moderate, out-and-back trail that criss-crosses back and forth over Taylor Creek. This trail leads hikers to the picturesque Double Arches Alcove in the Kolob Canyons section of Zion National Park. Sandy paths and creek crossings make this trail a fun challenge that the whole family can enjoy.
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Scout Lookout via West Rim Trail
The West Rim Trail to Scout Lookout is the less popular neighbor of the Angel’s Landing overlook in Zion National Park. This doesn’t mean it’s not worth your while. This paved, out-and-back trail affords all the views of Angel’s landing without the stomach-turning exposure or the packs of people. The West Rim Trail to Scout Lookout is a good option for families with older children who want to get some photos without working their way through a crowd.
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Hop Valley and Kolob Arch Trail
The Hop Valley Trail passes through private ranch land and leads travellers to the iconic Kolob Arch formation. This trail passes through sagebrush desert and cool forest, and requires hikers to ford many a stream. It is a moderate hike best done in fall.
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Checkerboard Mesa Canyon Trail
The Checkerboard Mesa Canyon Trail follows a drainage nestled between the Checkerboard and Crazy-Quilt Mesas of Zion National Park. Challenging terrain and little-to-no shade makes this a difficult trek for experienced hikers. This low-traffic trek will allow you stunning views and the opportunity to discover desert wildlife.
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Lava Point Overlook Trail
The Lava Point Overlook Trail is a quick, 0.5 km jaunt off of Kolob Terrace Road in Zion National Park. Camping at the outlook is available on a first-come-first-serve basis and is one of the most beautiful spots you can camp for free in Zion National Park. The lookout itself is known for its spectacular sunset vistas.
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Kayenta Trail to the Emerald Pools
The Kayenta Trail is a popular access route to the Emerald Pools. This trail is relatively easy and is a hike that the whole family can enjoy. So bring the camera and some lunch, and enjoy your time wandering through this tranquil desert oasis.
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Zion Grotto Trail
The Zion Grotto Trail is a well-trafficked, easy hike between Zion Lodge and The Grotto picnic site. This trail is family-friendly and a great option for a picnic outing. Mule deer and other wildlife are commonly seen along this trail.
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Timber Creek Overlook Trail
The Timber Creek Overlook Trail is a short, one-mile, out-and-back trail in the Kolob Canyons area of Zion National Park. This trail is an easy walk that is do-able for most folks, and is recommended for families with young children who want to get out and get some great views. From the overlook, hikers will get an epic view of the finger canyons across the valley and the surrounding buttes. Bring a camera, this is a hike to remember.
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East Rim Trail
The East Rim Trail to Weeping Rock is famous for its sandstone cliffs and canyon views. This hike takes you over sand and slickrock past Jolley Gulch, Echo Canyon, and Weeping Rock. This point-to-point hike is a big day in the sun, so start early and bring lots of water.