12 Incredible Hikes Under 5 Miles Everyone In Utah Should Take
Utah offers literally hundreds of hiking trails; it would be impossible to list all the best ones! This list features 12 hikes under 5 miles in Utah that’ll showcase some of our state’s most stunning landscape. Some are easy, others are more strenuous, all include some beautiful scenery.












What’s your favorite short Utah hike? Did it make the list? Let us know in the comments below or nominate it for a chance to be featured!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
More to Explore
Hikes Under 5 Miles In Utah
What are the best family-friendly hikes in Utah?
Getting back to nature is a great way to spend a day filled with family fun and Utah parents have a wide selection of kid-appropriate hikes to choose from. The Silver Lake American Fork Canyon is a popular 2.3-mile trail that winds through a lush forest of towering aspen trees to reveal some incredible mountain vistas. Located up Payson Canyon is an awesome geological formation known as The Devil’s Kitchen. This super short hike spans only a ¼ mile but offers stunning scenery, picnic areas, and is wheelchair accessible. At Bells Canyon you can see sweeping valley and reservoir views in just 20 minutes! The easily accessible trailhead is located at the mouth of Little Cottonwood Canyon and is rated as an easy hike the whole family will love.
What are the best outdoor adventures in Utah?
Outdoor lovers in Utah will find no shortage of exciting, heart-pumping activities to satisfy the adventurous spirit all year round. Our state is home to some of the best mountain biking destinations in the country and the Moab area is a notable leader of the pack. Trails range in difficulty but there are plenty of paths for all experience levels to enjoy. If you're a water sports enthusiast, the Moab region has it all! Explore the striking scenery by raft along the Colorado River and take in the incredible sights of its famous red canyons and buttes. For some unforgettable skiing and snowboarding, head to Brighton Resort near Wasatch Mountain State Park. Boasting the second-highest base elevation of all Utah ski resorts, Brighton offers a range of ski and snowboard options for all skill levels.
What are the best family-friendly campgrounds in Utah?
Family camping trips can be a magical experience for both kids and parents alike and Utah offers a multitude of kid-approved camping sites to discover. The Hailstone campground at Jordanelle Reservoir and State Park in northern Utah is a favorite camping area among local families. Spend a day by the water enjoying the parks many recreational activities like boating, birdwatching, fishing, and swimming. In the eastern region of Utah, the Rock Creek and Upper Stillwater Reservoir is nestled in the gorgeous scenery of the Uinta Mountains and offers excellent campground sites and popular hiking trails. In central Utah, spend the night in an enchanted aspen forest surrounded by roaming herds of elk at camping at Fishlake. Fun fact, not only is Fishlake full of fish, but the lake itself is shaped like one!