Whether you're looking for a simple nature trail or a five-day backpacking excursion, Utah has the trail for you. With hundreds of trails around the state, there's definitely something for everyone. Here's one of the shortest and sweetest hikes in Utah, and it ends with a stunning view.
The Mesa Arch Trail at Canyonlands National Park is a short, half-mile loop trail.
I love chasing waterfalls. In fact, my favorite hike is easily the Calf Creek Falls Trail in southern Utah. Although, tucked away near Provo is another waterfall hike that you’ll want to check out — Mistress Falls. This trail is short — approximately one mile long — but it’s filled with adventure. You’ll want to prepare for some rock scrambling, steep inclines, and possibly a little bushwacking. It’s not a hike for beginners but if you have the experience, it’s one that’s full of excitement.
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Mistress Falls is a lesser-known waterfall in Provo Canyon. To witness this beautiful waterfall in person, you’ll want to grab your hiking gear and head to Upper Falls Park. You’ll take the Upper Falls Trail for a portion of this hike. This trail is well-maintained and popular and takes you to the lovely Upper Falls.
Once you reach the base of Upper Falls, you’ll notice a very narrow trail. This is the trail to Mistress Falls. It will take you west and you’ll follow along the ridge of a mountain.
This portion of the trail is not like what you will find on your way to Upper Falls. Here, you'll come across very loose rocks and overgrown areas. You'll also want to prepare for some steep climbs. It is strongly recommended to bring hiking poles for this part of the journey to keep your footing — it’s quite difficult. You may feel like you are climbing straight up a mountain.
Safety is of utmost importance. You will want closed-toed footwear to protect your feet from the rocks and roots. Also, because this leg of your hike is less traveled, it can be easy to lose your way. We recommend using resources like AllTrails+, which allows you to download a trail map.
However, despite the challenge, the views of Mistress Falls are mesmerizing. The water is magical as it falls down the steep cliff walls. You’ll likely have the area all to yourself as the majority of hikers will stop at Upper Falls and not make the climb to Mistress Falls.
At the top, you’ll also find a large rock where you can sit and enjoy the view. It’s pretty spectacular.
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Mistress Falls is the type of adventure you must be prepared to take and it may challenge you more than you expect. However, the views are quite extraordinary. Take a few breaks and enjoy the experience.
For more information about the Mistress Falls Trail near Provo, Utah, visit AllTrails.
Have you ever hiked to Mistress Falls? What was your experience like? What is your favorite waterfall hike in Utah? Let me know! I’d love to hear from you.
There is no doubt that Utah is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Not only is the Beehive State home to some of the most popular national parks in the country, but it’s also home to incredible ski resorts, lakes, campsites, and so much more. Fortunately, there are still many places outdoors in our great state where you typically won’t find many crowds. In fact, you may just find yourself all alone in these treasured areas. Losee Canyon in southern Utah is one of these lesser-known, almost secret destinations and you'll want to add a visit to your bucket list.
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When many people visit southern Utah, they head straight to destinations like Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and even Sand Hollow Reservoir. But, there is a lesser-known canyon that is quite remarkable and one of my favorites — Losee Canyon.
Losee Canyon is located in Dixie National Forest. It is approximately 10 miles away from the small town of Panguitch. I grew up in this area and Losee Canyon was a fabulous day trip destination for my family. When we would visit, we’d often lace up our hiking shoes and hit a trail, like the Losee Canyon Trail.
What makes Losee Canyon so unique is that it’s full of hoodoos, red rock formations, and a conifer forest. In fact, you’ll see many natural features in this area that you will spot in Bryce Canyon National Park — just without the large crowds.
The Losee Canyon Trail is a great way to get up close to many of these features as well. If you complete the trail in its entirety, it is just shy of six miles. However, if you simply want some time outdoors, feel free to turn around wherever you desire. This is an out-and-back trail and it’s ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
As you explore this trail and canyon, you will walk right next to massive rock formations that create an almost other-worldly sight. Not only is the scenery ahead of you going to take your breath away but look up. The view is quite unique and beautiful.
The trail itself is quite easy. If you complete the entire Losee Canyon Trail, you will gain up to 500 feet in elevation. I do recommend that you use AllTrails+ for many of its advanced features such as learning about trail conditions before you go and for the ability to download a trail map. This trail can become quite muddy and difficult to travel on after heavy rainstorms. Also, portions of the trail can become washed out due to heavy rains, making it easy to lose your way.
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Although, if you are simply looking for a little peace and quiet, Losee Canyon Trail is a great place to find it. You may not even see another soul on the trail — this area is a true hidden gem.
For more information on the Losee Canyon Trail, visit AllTrails. And if you want a nearby trail that is short and sweet, check out the Arches Trail. Growing up, this was easily one of my favorite hikes.
