Top 28 Epic Utah Hiking Trails: Explore Deserts, Lakes, and Waterfalls

The state of Utah is renowned for its stunning national parks, featuring five U.S. National Parks and an abundance of hiking trails. This guide provides a concise overview of our favorite hikes across the state, showcasing the diverse landscapes, slot canyons, unique waterfalls, and breathtaking scenery.

The southern region of Utah showcases beautiful desert landscapes and remarkable slot canyons that draw visitors from around the world. In contrast, the Salt Lake City area features impressive mountains and picturesque alpine lakes that can evoke memories of Colorado’s scenery.

Utah has impressive waterfalls scattered throughout the state, and during our months of exploration, we found the state consistently captivating. Regardless of your chosen destination, Utah offers stunning views around every bend.

From the stunning canyons of Escalante to the pristine lakes of the Wasatch Range, here’s a comprehensive guide to the best hikes in Utah!

1. Angels Landing Hike (Zion)

Angels Landing is often regarded as one of the most iconic hikes in Utah. If you embark on just one hike in the national parks, this should be your choice.

This thrilling and challenging trail ascends the steep sandstone cliffs, with chains provided for safety, offering remarkable views of Zion National Park stretching out on every side. Note that permits have been mandatory since 2022.

The chain section of Angels Landing is particularly challenging and has been associated with fatalities over the years, but as long as you stick to the trail, you will be safe.

In parts, the trail narrows to just a few feet, requiring you to cling to the mountain’s edge for safety. While not all of this section includes chains, the most precarious areas are secured for your protection.

If you enjoy adventure and photography, this hike is a must-add to your itinerary!

The final vista from Angels Landing provides a 360-degree perspective of Zion Canyon, allowing you to see the winding roads and shuttle buses below and look down at the magnificent peak you just conquered.

Distance: 4.5 miles (7.2 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 1,500 feet (460 m)
Difficulty: Hard

2. Observation Point Trail (Zion)

The Observation Point trail may not receive the acclaim it deserves, yet it undoubtedly ranks among the best hikes in Zion National Park. This path leads you to a viewpoint overlooking the national park.

From this vantage point, witness many of Zion’s iconic sights, including the Great White Throne, Cathedral Mountain, and Angels Landing. You’ll be able to observe hikers on Angels Landing, while the roads and shuttle buses in the distance resemble toy cars.

Observation Point sits over 700 feet higher than Angels Landing, providing an exceptional bird’s-eye view of Zion National Park.

This hike provides stunning scenery, and due to its lesser popularity among hikers, you can relish the views without being surrounded by large groups, unlike at The Narrows.

Embark on this trail early on a weekday, and you may even have the place to yourself, aside from a few chipmunks scurrying about for food.

The main trailhead for this hike was closed due to a significant rockfall in 2019, affecting parts of the trail and switchbacks. However, you can still access Observation Point via the East Mesa Trail, which is an easier route. This relatively short and simple hike culminates in breathtaking views, making it a worthy addition to your Zion bucket list!

Distance: 7 miles (11 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 700 feet (215 m)
Difficulty: Easy / Moderate

3. The Narrows (Zion)

The Zion Narrows is a remarkable slot canyon hike, renowned for its towering walls that rise a thousand feet high, with the Virgin River flowing through it. While hiking the Narrows involves walking through water, you can choose how far to hike. The full trail spans 16 miles, but many hikers opt for a shorter experience.

The best part about the Narrows is that it accommodates all fitness levels; you can choose to hike only a portion and turn back at any point, creating a personalized adventure.

While permits are required for those wishing to hike from the top down, most visitors opt to go partway and return without needing a permit.

It’s noteworthy that the Narrows have grown increasingly popular; this popularity can detract from the experience. If you wish to see the Narrows without crowds, consider obtaining a permit for the top-down hike, or explore other trails within this Utah hiking guide.

Distance: 9 – 16 miles (14 – 25 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy / Moderate

4. Kanarra Canyon & Falls (Zion)

Kanarra Creek slot canyon distinguishes itself with two beautiful waterfalls, conveniently located just an hour’s drive from Zion National Park. This hike stands out as one of our personal favorites in Utah!

The first waterfall greets you near the slot canyon’s entrance, easily accessible thanks to a newly installed metal ladder provided by the city of Kanarraville. The second waterfall appears a bit later on the trail.

This trek can be classified as easy, even though it’s longer and involves more elevation gain than many of Utah’s slot canyon hikes.

Due to its rising popularity, a permit is now required to hike Kanarra Creek, and the number of permits issued daily is limited. These permits often sell out, thus planning ahead is essential.

Distance: 4 miles (6.5 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 650 feet (200 m)
Difficulty: Easy

5. Corona Arch Trail (Moab)

The Corona Arch trail offers a delightful, short hike located near Moab, Utah, featuring three distinct natural sandstone arches.

This hike is suitable for all ages, providing views of Pinto Arch (optional), Bowtie Arch, and ultimately leading to the extraordinary Corona Arch.

Although not part of Arches National Park, Corona Arch certainly ranks among the top arches in the Moab region, measuring 140 feet wide and 105 feet tall. The arch allows you to walk through it and take fantastic photographs at any time of day.

Importantly, the trailhead for this hike is conveniently located just outside Moab and Arches National Park, situated on Potash Road, which also features prehistoric dinosaur tracks and other captivating sights.

Distance: 2.5 miles (4 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 500 feet (150 m)
Difficulty: Easy / Moderate

Read More: Corona Arch Trail

6. Delicate Arch Hike (Moab)

Delicate Arch stands as one of Utah’s most iconic symbols, gracing everything from license plates to souvenirs. It’s a beloved American landmark.

This arch is incomparable, as there are more than 2,000 natural rock arches in Arches National Park, but none can quite compare to Delicate Arch in its uniqueness and beauty.

The hike to Delicate Arch spans about 3 miles roundtrip and is family-friendly, although the difficulty can vary based on the day’s temperature. Hot conditions can make the hike trickier.

Along the way, you’ll also encounter a historic wooden cabin and Ute Indian petroglyphs near the beginning of the trail. Overall, it’s a fantastic addition to any Utah hiking itinerary!

Distance: 3.2 miles (5 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 650 feet (200 m)
Difficulty: Easy / Moderate

7. Tower Arch Trail (Moab)

The Tower Arch trail is regarded as one of Arches National Park’s best-kept secrets. With a primitive access road and minimal crowds, it’s a hidden gem.

This beginner-friendly trail concludes at a massive sandstone arch, named for the large rock spire that appears to rise from the arch when viewed from the front. The hike takes about 45-60 minutes each way.

The first glimpse of Tower Arch is thrilling, and the view from the opposite side is even more impressive! Stretching 92 feet wide, this arch invites you to walk through its center, allowing you to appreciate its true size.

While you can obtain remarkable photos from various angles, navigating the slick rock surrounding the arch may require some scrambling. The shaded area beneath the arch is an excellent spot to relax!

Distance: 2.5 miles (4 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 600 feet (180 m)
Difficulty: Easy

Read More: Tower Arch Trail

8. Devils Garden (Moab)

The Devils Garden trail offers another fantastic hiking experience in Arches National Park, allowing you to explore a variety of impressive sights, including eight unique arches!

One of these is the Landscape Arch, easily accessible from the trailhead, and holds the title of the longest arch in North America, currently ranking as the fourth longest natural arch in the world!

Completing the entire loop at Devils Garden is moderately challenging; however, it becomes more demanding during the summer heat. Be sure to bring ample water!

Distance: 8 miles (12.8 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 1,100 feet (335 m)
Difficulty: Moderate / Hard

9. Double Arch (Moab)

The brief trek to Double Arch is perhaps one of the easiest and quickest hikes in Utah and within Arches National Park, rewarding hikers with a remarkable view.

Comprising two massive arches joined together, Double Arch holds records for being both the tallest and the second-longest arch in the national park.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can climb up to the arch’s main window to enjoy the cool breeze and shade from the sun.

This breathtaking spot is found in the ‘Windows Section’ of Arches National Park.

Distance: 0.5 miles (0.8 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy

Double Arch in Arches National Park is truly a sight to behold!

10. Windows Trail (Moab)

Another brief and uncomplicated hike in Moab is the Windows Trail, showcasing stunning rock formations, located adjacent to the Double Arch trail within Arches National Park. You can complete both trails starting from the same parking lot, but be mindful that the trailheads are on opposite sides.

This Utah hike features the enormous sandstone North and South Windows, along with a spur trail to Turret Arch. Additionally, a longer, more primitive trail winds around the backside of the two Windows, offering a unique view of their combined shape resembling spectacles.

The North Window is massive—50 feet high and 90 feet wide—so ensure to see it from a distance with people nearby for a better sense of scale! While climbing on the arches is not permitted, you can walk through Turret Arch or into the North Window for excellent views of the opposite side.

There are numerous photo opportunities on this hike, including framing Turret Arch through the North Window, creating the illusion of seeing an arch within an arch. Overall, it stands as one of the easiest and most rewarding hikes in Utah.

Distance: 1 mile (1.6 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 100 feet (30 m)
Difficulty: Easy

The Windows Trail is an easy and enjoyable Utah hiking spot!

11. Mesa Arch Loop Trail (Moab)

The Mesa Arch trail may be short and easy, but it remains a must-do hike for its breathtaking arch that frames the sunrise in Canyonlands National Park!

Visitors are often encouraged to witness Mesa Arch during sunrise—an event that is truly spectacular, albeit crowded with photographers vying for the perfect shot.

During the daytime, while crowds lessen, the views remain striking, providing sweeping vistas of the arch, canyons, and the La Sal Mountains beyond. This hike epitomizes the beauty of Canyonlands National Park!

Suitable for all ages, this brief trail has sections that require caution near cliff edges—a 500-foot drop! The recommended route is counterclockwise, as this makes the elevation gain smoother on your return.

Distance: 0.6 miles (1 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 100 feet (30 m)
Difficulty: Easy

12. Wire Pass / Buckskin Gulch (Escalante)

Creating a unique hiking experience, Buckskin Gulch is the longest slot canyon in the United States and potentially in the world, extending 21 miles!

Located near the Utah-Arizona state line, it’s a one-hour drive from Page, Arizona or about two hours from Zion National Park.

The ideal approach to visit this slot canyon is to start from Wire Pass, as this route provides the opportunity to explore two slot canyons simultaneously!

Wire Pass intersects with Buckskin Gulch and offers easier access, reducing your time spent exposed to the hot sun.

The slot canyon section at Wire Pass is incredibly photogenic, boasting narrow passageways and vibrant colors. A wooden ladder is present, enhancing the photographic potential. Additionally, this route leads to an area in Buckskin Gulch featuring Native American petroglyphs on the canyon walls.

Without a doubt, it stands as one of the best slot canyons in Utah!

Distance: 3.5 miles (5.5 km) for Wire Pass
Elevation Gain: 150 feet (45 m)
Difficulty: Easy / Moderate

Read More: Wire Pass To Buckskin Gulch

13. Peekaboo Canyon / Spooky Gulch (Escalante)

A remarkable hike in Escalante features three slot canyons, varying from easy to moderate difficulty.

The Peekaboo Slot Canyon invites adventurers with exciting obstacles to navigate and extraordinary red rock walls. Considered one of Utah’s most beautiful slot canyons, its heart-shaped passageway and arch ceilings leave an unforgettable impression.

While Peekaboo is moderately challenging, it remains accessible for beginners. The main obstacle lies at the beginning of the slot, where a slippery ledge poses a risk.

The second slot in this hike, Spooky Gulch, is notorious for its narrow passages, requiring participants to maneuver sideways in several spots. Carrying backpacks overhead is necessary due to tight squeezes.

No special gear or technical skills are needed for both slots, but a good fitness level and a lack of claustrophobia are important. Despite the challenges, the fun experienced on this trek is monumental, undeniably making it one of Utah’s finest hikes!

If you’re looking for an easier option, a third slot canyon, the Dry Fork Narrows, offers a wider and gentler walk, allowing you to appreciate the landscape at a relaxed pace.

The trailhead for this hike is situated in the Escalante area, roughly one hour from Bryce Canyon National Park, making it an ideal stop on your Utah road trip itinerary!

Distance: 3.5 miles (4 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 300 feet (150 m)
Difficulty: Moderate

Read More: Peekaboo And Spooky Slot Canyons

14. Coyote Gulch Trail (Escalante)

Coyote Gulch showcases breathtaking canyon views far from the tourist path in the Escalante area.

Be prepared for a long hike; many choose to camp overnight with free permits available at the trailhead. This is hiking in Utah at its finest!

It’s also feasible to complete Coyote Gulch in one day if you maintain a good pace. Regardless, ample water, including a filtration system for stream use, is a must.

This hike offers four different trailheads, so researching your route before departure is highly recommended. It guarantees a rewarding experience, with encounters of multiple arches, including the impressive Jacob Hamblin Arch!

Distance: 11 miles (18 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 1,525 feet (465 m)
Difficulty: Moderate / Hard

15. Lower Calf Creek Falls (Escalante)

Located near Escalante, this unique waterfall captivates visitors with its stunning colors.

Lower Calf Creek Falls reaches a height of 130 feet, with a refreshing pool at its base ideal for swimming.

This family-friendly hike to the falls is easy, as is the scenic drive to the trailhead. Due to its popularity, parking spots can be limited, so an early start is advised, preferably on a weekday!

Distance: 6.7 miles (10.8 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 750 feet (225 m)
Difficulty: Easy

Lower Calf Creek Falls is truly one of the top waterfall hikes in Utah!

16. Navajo Loop / Queens Garden (Bryce)

This beautiful loop hike encapsulates the essence of Bryce Canyon National Park, surrounded by breathtaking orange and red rock walls and towering hoodoos.

The Navajo Loop / Queens Garden trail spans 3 miles roundtrip, typically completed in about two hours, depending on your pace. While not overly strenuous, expect a moderate amount of elevation gain toward the end of the hike.

Starting the trial from Sunset Point and taking the counterclockwise direction is advisable, as mornings facilitate a more pleasant experience, avoiding crowds and excessive heat, although afternoon colors can be striking as well.

This trail is Bryce Canyon’s most popular for a valid reason!

Distance: 3 miles (5 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 650 feet (200 m)
Difficulty: Easy / Moderate

17. Stewart Falls (Provo)

Although Utah may not be renowned for large waterfalls, it certainly features some stunning options, and Stewart Falls delivers with its impressive 200-foot drop, located near Provo.

This easy, family-friendly trail leads to the falls, although the final portion to the base may prove steep and challenging for young children.

This hike is ideal for summer days, where standing near the cool mist of the waterfall can be refreshing! Dogs are permitted on this trail as well.

Distance: 3.5 miles (5.5 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 650 feet (200 m)
Difficulty: Easy

Stewart Falls is a beautiful destination!

18. Lake Blanche (Salt Lake City)

Lake Blanche, located near Salt Lake City and Provo, offers a breathtaking alpine lake trail, especially stunning during the autumn months due to vibrant tree colors.

This hike is not dangerous but does involve a strenuous 2,800 feet of elevation gain, so bring sufficient water and be prepared for about a 4-hour roundtrip hike.

Once at the lake, enjoy close-up views of Sundial Peak, and you might even spot a moose enjoying a bath!

Distance: 6.8 miles (11 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 2,800 feet (850 m)
Difficulty: Moderate / Hard

Lake Blanche presents a scenic reflection that appears as if the mountain is floating in the sky!

19. Toadstool Hoodoos (Kanab)

This short and easy hike in southern Utah leads to fascinating mushroom-shaped hoodoos and rock formations that seem perfect for a movie set on a desert planet!

Various groups of these toadstool hoodoos can be seen with a brief walk from each other, making for fantastic photography opportunities. Dogs are allowed, though on a leash.

The trail provides plenty of sunny exposure, yet boasts minimal elevation gain and under a mile to reach the hoodoo rocks, making it accessible for nearly everyone. Mornings or evenings offer the best experience, avoiding excessive heat.

This hike is ultimately perfect for families and young kids!

Distance: 1.8 miles (3 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 150 feet (45 m)
Difficulty: Easy

20. Wahweap Hoodoos (Kanab)

If you seek a glimpse of otherworldly landscapes, the Wahweap Hoodoos represent one of Utah’s best hikes. While the trail may feel lengthy and uneventful at times, the conclusion will leave you breathless.

This hike culminates in bizarre and unique scenery—numerous white hoodoos capped with large sandstone rocks, resembling a different planet.

Keep in mind, reaching this destination requires navigating an unmarked dry wash over a roundtrip distance of over 10 miles. Expect sandy and muddy areas that may slow your pace. The entire trail is exposed, so bring adequate sun protection and water.

Spring and fall are ideal times for this adventure, as summer is quite challenging unless you commence early. This hike is an excellent option for those searching for solitude.

Distance: 10.6 miles (17 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 450 feet (140 m)
Difficulty: Easy / Moderate

21. Mount Olympus (Salt Lake City)

Mount Olympus provides an exhilarating workout near Salt Lake City, offering stunning panoramic views along the way.

Commence your hike early in the morning to stay in the shade for most of the ascent, leading to a more enjoyable experience. Regardless, ample water is crucial.

The final half-mile features steep rock scrambling and occasional rattlesnake sightings, making it a strenuous climb. Therefore, I recommend only those with scrambling experience attempt to reach the summit, as a fall could be detrimental.

The summit offers incredible views of Salt Lake City and the Wasatch mountains, and thanks to its difficulty level, the peak is typically less crowded.

Distance: 7.8 miles (12 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 4,150 feet (1,265 m)
Difficulty: Hard

22. Bell Canyon Trail & Falls (Salt Lake City)

Bell Canyon trail offers a family-friendly hike close to Salt Lake City, featuring a beautiful reservoir with ducks and geese, along with a 40-foot waterfall at the end of the trail.

Reaching the lower reservoir is an easy feat suitable for all, taking only a brief 15-minute hike—a superb spot for morning reflections!

If you venture to the Bell Canyon falls, keep in mind the trail becomes steep and challenging, yet remains manageable for most individuals. The following statistics apply to the full hike leading to the waterfall.

Distance: 4.8 miles (7.7 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 1,500 feet (460 m)
Difficulty: Easy / Moderate

23. Cecret Lake & Albion Meadows (Salt Lake City)

Cecret Lake, famous for its short, easy hike leading to a picturesque alpine lake, offers stunning scenery throughout the journey. Kids can easily complete this trek, although the final approach to the lake may require assistance due to rocky terrain.

Situated in the Albion Basin, this location is perfect for summer hikes, especially to escape the heat of the valley. From the same trailhead, visitors can also explore the nearby Albion meadows adorned with seasonal wildflowers.

Cecret Lake has gained significant popularity, particularly on weekends, leading to large crowds. Aim to arrive early for available parking!

Distance: 1.8 miles (2.9 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 475 feet (145 m)
Difficulty: Easy

24. Mount Timpanogos (Provo)

Mount Timpanogos offers one of the most epic hikes in North America. Though the trail is long and steep, the rewards are well worth the effort.

Visit during peak wildflower season to witness breathtaking blooms, and revel in summit views that extend over the entire Provo area and beyond.

The green peaks on Timpanogos evoke memories of Glacier National Park in Montana. Hikers can also spot mountain goats, moose, and various wildlife along the trail.

The final ascent can be quite challenging, with some scrambling involved along steep and rocky terrain.

With a summit elevation of 11,753 feet, the effects of altitude will become noticeable as you climb higher.

Even if you don’t reach the summit, it’s worthwhile to hike as far as possible, as every step reveals incredible scenery. The mid-basin views are magnificent, and bringing more water than necessary is always wise.

Timpanogos has two trailheads: Aspen Grove and Timpooneke, but the info mentioned here pertains to the Timpooneke trailhead, which is the more popular route with slightly lower elevation gain and breathtaking wildflower views in the basin.

Distance: 14.2 miles (22.9 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 4,500 feet (1,375 m)
Difficulty: Hard

25. Lake Mary Trail (Park City)

Lake Mary trail offers a picturesque hike in the mountains near Park City and Salt Lake City, showcasing three beautiful alpine lakes: Mary, Martha, and Catherine. Each lake is outstanding in its own right!

This largely easy trek becomes slightly more challenging if you decide to visit all three lakes. The distances mentioned below pertain to the first lake, but opting to reach the third lake still constitutes a moderate hike of 4.5 miles roundtrip with 1,250 feet of elevation gain.

Overall, this hike provides an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in mountain landscapes, alpine lakes, and vibrant wildflowers without an overwhelming effort. You also have the chance to spot moose!

Distance: 2.5 miles (4 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 850 feet (260 m)
Difficulty: Easy / Moderate

26. The Pfeifferhorn (Salt Lake City)

The Pfeifferhorn trail is just as epic as its name suggests. It presents a challenging hike featuring substantial elevation gain and some technically demanding sections requiring scrambling.

The initial part of the hike leads you to Red Pine Lake before the trail becomes trickier as you ascend the ridge. Downloading the map from AllTrails will help you stay oriented.

From the ridge’s peak, you’re rewarded with mesmerizing views of heart-shaped Red Pine Lake and the stunning Little Cottonwood Canyon mountains in the background. Even if you only reach this point, you’ll have achieved significant scenic rewards.

As you continue along the ridge, the famed triangle-shaped mountain comes into view.

Crossing through an area known as the ‘knife edge’ sounds intimidating, but it’s just a boulder-strewn ridge where you must scramble your way through. Depending on your route, you’ll experience a sense of adventure as you navigate through the boulders.

This section might feel overwhelming, but as long as you approach it cautiously, it’s not exceedingly dangerous or exposed.

A final summit push awaits you, steep and demanding. No significant dangers present themselves, but plan for a strenuous climb over uneven terrain. Take your time to ensure safe footing. Welcome to the summit of the Pfeifferhorn!

Distance: 10 miles (16 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 3,650 feet (1,115 m)
Difficulty: Hard

27. Red Pine Lake & Gloria Falls (Salt Lake City)

Even without hiking the Pfeifferhorn, Red Pine Lake is a worthy destination, accessible via the same trailhead in Little Cottonwood Canyon.

This lake, nestled in the mountains, is truly a remarkable destination. Early in your journey, take a brief detour to Gloria Falls, a standout waterfall in Utah!

Red Pine Lake does involve significant elevation gain, but the effort is rewarded with breathtaking alpine views. Expect a busy trail, so an early start is advisable to secure parking.

Most hikers stop at the lower Red Pine Lake, but should energy permit, venture to the upper Red Pine Lake or partway up the ridge to catch a glimpse of the heart-shaped lake from above.

Distance: 7.7 miles (12.4 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 2,200 feet (670 m)
Difficulty: Moderate / Hard

28. Maybird Gulch (Salt Lake City)

Maybird Gulch is an underrated treasure. This lake is accessed via the same trail as the more well-known Red Pine Lake, branching off mid-route after crossing a stream into another section of the mountains.

Once you venture away from the main trail to Red Pine Lake, you’ll notice low trail traffic. My experience at Maybird Gulch had me cross paths with only one other person for hours—an excellent escape from the usual crowds!

Positioned directly beneath the Pfeifferhorn, Maybird Lake offers breathtaking views of the towering mountain, perfect for capturing reflections on calm mornings.

Bring bug spray, as both Maybird and Red Pine Lakes can be buggy in some seasons.

Distance: 7.6 miles (12.2 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 2,200 feet (670 m)
Difficulty: Moderate / Hard

Map Of The Best Utah Hikes

This map of Utah hikes can assist you in planning your own road trip. Click on the icons to gather more information on each location, but some map markers may be approximate.

For detailed information about individual trailheads for these hiking trails, please refer to my dedicated travel guides corresponding to each hike.

As a reminder, please maintain the cleanliness of the trails, be considerate of fellow hikers, and leave no trace. Thank you, and happy hiking!

Best Waterfall Hikes In Utah

If your goal is to experience stunning waterfalls, consider these recommendations for the top waterfall hikes in Utah:

• Bells Canyon Falls (near Salt Lake City)
• Gloria Falls (near Salt Lake City)
• Bridal Veil Falls (near Provo)
• Stewart Falls (near Provo)
• Kanarra Creek Falls (near Zion National Park)
• Faux Falls (near Moab)
• Lower Calf Creek Falls (near Escalante)

Best Slot Canyon Hikes In Utah

If you’re looking to experience slot canyon hikes in Utah, you have many excellent choices. Here’s a selection of our favorites:

• Little Wild Horse Canyon (near Moab)
• The Narrows (in Zion National Park)
• Red Canyon Kanab (near Zion)
• Kanarra Creek & Falls (near Zion)
• Buckskin Gulch & Wire Pass (near Zion)
• Peekaboo & Spooky Slot Canyons (in Escalante)

This is just a small sampling of some of the most picturesque and enjoyable slot canyons in Utah—many more await your discovery.

Read More: Best Slot Canyons In Utah

More Utah Hiking Guides

Thank you for your interest! I hope you found this overview of some of Utah’s best hikes enjoyable.

Don’t forget to explore my other Utah hiking guides for your upcoming road trip!

Slot Canyon Safety Tips

Flash Floods: Always be mindful of weather forecasts. Never enter a slot canyon if rain is predicted, regardless of its distance from your location. Flash floods can be extremely dangerous within slot canyons.

Sunscreen: While hiking in a slot canyon, certain trail sections will expose you to direct sunlight; therefore, applying sunscreen is advisable. A hat can also provide protection.

Water: Aim to carry at least 3-4 liters of water per person. In Utah, it’s always wise to bring more water than you believe you’ll need.

Map: Download an offline map of your hiking area using an app such as Google Maps, enabling navigation and position tracking even without cell service. Getting lost in the desert can be perilous.