Utah's Best Top Hiking Trails
Have you ever wondered why Utah’s hiking trails are among the best in the country? This state is a paradise for hikers, with its stunning red rock formations and peaceful alpine lakes. I’ve explored many trails here, and they offer something for everyone. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a family-friendly adventure, Utah has it all.
With so many options, it’s no surprise that people love to explore Utah’s top trails. These trails provide amazing views and experiences you won’t forget.
A breathtaking view of a narrow trail winding through a rocky canyon with towering red cliffs on either side. In the distance, a snow-capped mountain peak looms over the landscape. The trail is surrounded by lush greenery and wildflowers in vibrant shades of purple, yellow, and orange. A hiker can be seen in the foreground, making their way up the trail with a backpack and trekking poles. The sky above is a clear blue with fluffy white clouds scattered across it.
Utah’s wilderness is more than just beautiful sights. It’s about finding peace in nature. Let’s explore Utah’s hiking trails together. We’ll discover hidden gems and famous routes that are waiting for us.
Key Takeaways
- Utah features diverse landscapes ideal for all types of hikers.
- The state is home to the Mighty 5 national parks, each offering unique trails and experiences.
- From easy walks to strenuous climbs, Utah’s trails cater to varying skill levels.
- Wildlife sightings and seasonal blooms enhance the hiking experience.
- Trail safety and preparation are key to enjoying these scenic Utah hikes.
Introduction to Utah's Hiking Trails
Utah is famous for its beautiful hiking trails. They offer great adventures for both experts and families. The state’s varied landscapes, from red rock canyons to green forests, make each hike special. I love exploring the vast deserts and vibrant national parks.
Utah's Diverse Landscapes
Hiking in Utah shows off amazing natural wonders. I can see incredible rock formations and lush forests. Trails like the Landscape Arch in Arches National Park are short but stunning, taking about an hour to complete.
For families, the Mossy Cave Trail is perfect. It introduces you to the park’s stunning red rocks.
Four Seasons of Outdoor Recreation
Utah has hiking trails all year round. Spring and fall are great for outdoor fun. Summer can be busy, but winter offers snow hiking in places like Utah’s canyons.
No matter the season, I enjoy Utah’s trails. From the Upper Emerald Pools Trail in Zion National Park to the easy Riverside Walk, there’s something for everyone.
| Trail Name | Length | Elevation Gain | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Navajo Loop Trail |
1.3 miles |
550 ft |
Moderate
|
|
Landscape Arch |
1.8 miles |
Minimal |
Easy |
|
Park Avenue Trail |
2 miles |
Minimal |
Easy
|
|
Mesa Arch |
0.7 miles |
88 ft |
Easy
|
|
Mossy Cave Trail |
Under 1 mile |
Minimal |
Easy |
|
Grand Wash |
1 mile (one way) |
Minimal |
Easy |
|
Upper Emerald Pools |
2.2 miles |
620 ft |
Moderate |
|
Riverside Walk |
1.9 miles |
Minimal |
Easy
|
Best Hiking Trails In Utah
Exploring Utah’s hiking trails, I find many options for different skills and tastes. This state has diverse landscapes, great for dog-friendly hikes, enriching experiences, and stunning views.
The Angel’s Landing trail is thrilling, with 4.1 miles and a 1,617-foot climb. It’s a top choice for those seeking a challenge. On the other side, the Emerald Pools trail is easier, ranging from 0.6 to 3 miles. It’s perfect for families and dog owners.
The Delicate Arch trail is another highlight, with its 3-mile path and breathtaking views. The Narrows offers a unique 1 to 10-mile hike through water, ideal for something different.
For those up for a long hike, Mount Timpanogos has a 15-mile trail with amazing views. Or, the Lake Blanche trail is shorter at 6.8 miles, showing off Utah’s beauty.
Utah’s trails are great for hiking with dogs. The Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden Trail, at 2.9 miles, features beautiful rock formations. It’s a great spot for a day out with your dog.
Utah offers a wide range of trails for every hiker. Whether you want to relax, explore, or get a workout, there’s something for you.
| Trail Name | Length (miles) | Elevation Gain (feet) | Difficulty Level | Dog-Friendly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Delicate Arch |
3 |
N/A |
Moderate |
Yes
|
|
Angel's Landing |
4.1 |
1,617 |
Challenging |
No |
|
The Narrows |
1-10 |
206-1,017 |
Varies |
Yes |
|
Mount Timpanogos |
15 |
N/A |
Challenging |
No |
|
Lake Blanche |
6.8 |
N/A |
Moderate |
Yes |
|
Navajo Loop & Queen’s Garden |
2.9 |
N/A |
Moderate |
Yes |
|
Emerald Pools |
0.6-3 |
N/A |
Easy |
Yes |
|
Hike the Y |
2.4 |
N/A |
Moderate |
No |
Angel's Landing in Zion National Park
Angel’s Landing is a top spot for hikers in Utah, offering amazing views and tough trails. This 5.4-mile trail has a steep climb of 1,488 feet. It requires not just physical strength but also careful planning for permits and other details.
Permit Requirements for Angel's Landing
Getting a permit is a must to hike Angel’s Landing. You can apply through a lottery system, with different times for each season. For fall, from September 1 to November 30, you can apply starting July 1 and ending July 20.
The application costs $6 and lets up to six people join. If you get a permit, it’s $3 per person, and this fee is non-refundable. It’s best to apply the day before your hike. The lottery runs from 12:01 a.m. to 3 p.m. MT, and permits are given out by 4 p.m. MT each day.
Getting to the Angel's Landing Trailhead
The trailhead is easy to find, located at The Grotto shuttle stop in Zion National Park. In some seasons, you’ll need to take park shuttles, but driving yourself is an option in winter or spring. The parking area has restrooms and water, which is great for hikers.
The hike to the top is filled with beautiful views, especially during sunrise or sunset. It’s a favorite spot for photographers. For those ready for the challenge, the views from the top are unforgettable.
Getting to the Angel's Landing Trailhead
The trailhead is easy to find, located at The Grotto shuttle stop in Zion National Park. In some seasons, you’ll need to take park shuttles, but driving yourself is an option in winter or spring. The parking area has restrooms and water, which is great for hikers.
The Narrows in Zion National Park
The Narrows in Zion National Park is a magical place for hikers. The Virgin River flows through towering canyon walls here. You can choose from two main hikes: the easy bottom-up route from the Temple of Sinawava or the challenging top-down hike from Chamberlain’s Ranch. Both offer amazing views and wildlife encounters.
Bottom-Up vs. Top-Down Narrows Hike
The bottom-up hike is perfect for those who want to see stunning views without a wilderness permit. It starts at the Temple of Sinawava and lets you wade through the river. This hike can be up to 9.4 miles round trip, taking anywhere from 3 to over 7 hours.
The top-down hike is for the adventurous, needing a wilderness permit and covering 16 miles. It’s a tough but rewarding journey through beautiful scenery. I must watch the river’s flow, as high levels can close the park.
Summer or early fall is best for calmer waters and warmer weather. But, I need to be careful on slick rocks. Wearing closed-toe shoes and bringing hiking poles helps with balance.
Staying safe in The Narrows is crucial. I check the weather to avoid flash floods, which can make the river impassable quickly. Rules are in place to keep visitors safe and protect this natural beauty.
| Hiking Type | Permit Required | Hiking Distance | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Bottom-Up |
No |
5 to 9.4 miles round trip |
3 to 7+ hours
|
|
Top-Down |
Yes |
16 miles |
Varies by pace
|
The Subway in Zion National Park
The Subway hike is a top challenge among Utah’s trails. It features stunning underground tunnels and colorful rocks. This 9 to 9.5-mile trip with 600 feet of elevation gain is very tough, taking 5 to 9 hours to finish.
Those wanting to see this amazing spot must be ready for a rocky path and cold water. Planning ahead is key. Knowing the route beforehand will make your trip better, as you’ll need to find your way.
Group sizes are limited; up to 12 for The Left Fork (Subway), 6 for Das Boot and Russell Gulch. At least two people are needed for technical canyons with ropes. Remember, the Seasonal Lottery for The Left Fork runs from November 1 to November 25 each year.
You can apply for trips in January, February, and March during this time. Getting a Wilderness permit through a Daily Lottery is possible for hikes in the next two days. You can apply from 12:00 am MT to 3:00 pm MT. There’s a $6 non-refundable lottery application fee and a $10 refundable fee per person.
Weather affects the hike a lot. Winter can be cold, with ice. Spring brings warmer temperatures but watch out for high water levels. Summer is hot, and fall is mild, making it a favorite time for hikers.
Make sure you have a good map and hiking boots that fit well and keep your feet dry. Bring a hydration pack for water and wear the right clothes. If you need to rappel, don’t forget your gear. These steps will make your Subway hike better.
The Wave in Vermilion Cliffs National Monument
The Wave is a top spot for those who love nature. It’s a 5.2-mile hike with stunning sandstone formations and bright colors. Getting a permit to hike here is competitive, so plan carefully.
Permit Process for The Wave
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) controls access to The Wave to protect its beauty. Now, up to 64 people can hike here, up from 20. Getting a permit is through a lottery, online or in person. Since permits are rare, plan early to get one.
Accessing The Wave Trailhead
To get to The Wave, go to the Wire Pass Trailhead, 8.4 miles south of U.S. Highway 89. You’ll need a high-clearance vehicle for the rough road. The journey shows off the beauty of Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. If you get a permit, you’ll find solitude and stunning views.
Capture the stunning sandstone formations of Vermilion Cliffs National Monument on a hiking trail that leads to The Wave. Show the vibrant colors and textures of the rock formations that surround the trail, with the hikers adding a sense of scale and adventure to the image. Incorporate elements of Utah’s natural beauty, like desert foliage or distant mountains, in the background. Use warm tones to evoke the feeling of hiking under the sun, and play with light and shadows to highlight the intricate details of the rocks.
Golden Cathedral Trail in Grand Staircase-Escalante
The Golden Cathedral Trail is a magical spot for hikers in Utah. It’s a 9.5-mile roundtrip journey to an emerald grotto. The trail’s unique feature is an overhead cavity that lets sunlight filter through, making the area even more beautiful.
This trail is in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and is not too crowded. Its remote location adds to its charm.
Directions to the Golden Cathedral Trailhead
To get to the Golden Cathedral Trailhead, follow Hole-in-the-Rock Road. Make sure you have a GPS handy, as finding the trail can be tricky. Drive about 16.3 miles on Egypt Bench Road to reach the trailhead.
Don’t forget to bring enough water, especially in warm months. Aim for 2 to 3 liters to stay hydrated.
On your hike, you’ll cross rivers, which can be two to four times. The trail goes up about 1260 feet. It should take around 5 to 6 hours to complete, so take your time to enjoy the views.
The best time to hike is from late March to early November. This makes it perfect for those who love scenic utah hikes.
| Trail Feature | Details |
|---|---|
|
Distance |
9.5 miles roundtrip
|
|
Approximate Hiking Time |
5-6 hours
|
|
Elevation Gain |
1260 feet
|
|
Recommended Water |
2-3 liters
|
|
Seasons to Hike |
Late March to early November
|
|
Permits Required |
No |
|
GPS Required |
Yes
|
|
River Crossings |
Varies, usually two to four
|
Be ready for the challenges this trail offers. Wear sturdy shoes for the slick rock and sand. Plan ahead, especially after rain, as river crossings can get tricky. Use a tracking app or a satellite communicator since phone service is rare. These steps will help ensure a safe and fun hike in Utah’s hidden treasure.
Paria Canyon Backpacking Trek
Paria Canyon is a top choice for those looking for adventure in Utah. This 38-mile trek takes you through stunning sandstone walls and winding rivers. It’s a journey that feels isolated, with few people around. I only met one other group in four days, showing how secluded it is.
Permits and Logistics for Paria Canyon
Planning is key for this amazing hike. Only 20 people can enter the canyon each day with permits. You can book these permits three months ahead of time, starting at 12 pm Mountain Time on the 1st of each month. Each group pays a $9 reservation fee and $5 per person each day.
Getting ready for the trip means knowing a few things:
- The hike has little elevation change, dropping only 1,130 feet over 38 miles.
- It’s best done as a 4-day, 3-night trip, covering about 10 miles each day.
- There are campsites at mile 8, mile 20.5, and mile 30, offering great views and spots for stealthy camping.
- There are reliable springs at mile 12, mile 22, and mile 25 for clean water. But always filter and purify river water because of the silt.
- Dogs are allowed for an extra $5 per day.
Getting to Kanab, UT, to pick up your permit takes about 3 hours from Las Vegas, NV. It’s around 4 hours and 45 minutes from Salt Lake City, UT, and 5 hours and 30 minutes from Phoenix, AZ.
Picture a narrow trail winding through rugged sandstone cliffs in Paria Canyon. The rust-colored rocks tower above, with occasional pockets of green trees and shrubs dotting the landscape. The trail descends into a narrow canyon, with walls so high they almost block out the sun. A meandering river runs alongside the trail, its crystal-clear water reflecting the surrounding cliffs. In the distance, a lone hiker can be seen trekking towards the towering cliffs ahead.
Spring and early fall are the best times to go, with nicer weather. But watch out for the monsoon season from July to September, which can bring storms and flash floods. The Paria Canyon Backpacking Trek is an unforgettable adventure, offering stunning views and the excitement of discovery.
Buckskin Gulch and Wire Pass
Buckskin Gulch is a top hiking spot in Utah, loved for its stunning Navajo sandstone formations. It begins at the Wire Pass trailhead, where you must prepare for this amazing slot canyon adventure. The trail is over 13 miles long, with walls that reach up to 500 feet high, offering a unique hike.
Permit Requirements for Buckskin Gulch
To hike Buckskin Gulch, you need a permit. Day passes are $6, and overnight backpacking permits are $5. Only 20 permits are given out for overnight trips each day. This keeps the canyon clean and makes planning ahead crucial, especially in busy seasons.
Get your permits at the Bureau of Land Management office in Kanab or online at recreation.gov. Remember, cell service is poor at the trailhead, so download maps before you go. Dogs are allowed for a $6 fee per pet, and there are pet-friendly places to stay in Kanab.
Be careful in July and August due to flash floods. Hiking in the early morning lets you see beautiful views and avoid crowds. The trail is about 5.6 miles long, but it can feel longer based on how fast you walk and what you explore.
Some parts of the trail are tough and may have cold water. Always put safety first when hiking this beautiful trail in Utah.
Conclusion
Exploring Utah’s hiking trails has left me amazed. The state’s landscapes are truly extraordinary. From Zion National Park’s rugged beauty to the hidden spots in the Grand Staircase-Escalante, each trail is unique. They offer experiences for all hikers, from beginners to experts.
Utah’s trails have something for everyone. They challenge us and offer peace and nature’s connection. I’ve seen breathtaking slot canyons and vast valleys. This shows why Utah is a top spot for hiking in the U.S.
No matter the season, Utah’s trails are unforgettable. Every step shows the beauty and excitement of exploring outdoors. So, get your gear ready, put on your hiking boots, and discover Utah’s stunning trails.
FAQ
Need Some Answers?
Beginners should check out easy trails like the Riverside Walk in Zion National Park. Also, the Lower Emerald Pool Trail offers beautiful views without much effort.
Yes, Utah has many trails where dogs are welcome. For example, the North Fork of the Virgin River and Mill Creek Canyon trails are great for hiking with your dog.
For a challenge, try Angel’s Landing or The Subway trails. They have rugged paths, amazing views, and unforgettable adventures for experienced hikers.
To get a permit for Angel’s Landing, enter a lottery two months before your hike. Apply early because spots are limited for this popular trail.
Spring and Fall are great for hiking in Utah, with mild weather and beautiful sights. Summer is ideal for high-altitude hikes. Winter hiking is also great, but you’ll need the right gear for snow.
Definitely! Families will love trails like the Hike to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park and the Emerald Pools hike in Zion. These trails are fun for all ages.
The Golden Cathedral Trail and parts of the Paria Canyon trek are remote. They offer a peaceful hike through Utah’s stunning landscapes and geological wonders.
Yes, you need permits for backpacking in Paria Canyon. Make sure to plan ahead and check availability. This area is known for its rugged beauty and peaceful surroundings.