Get ready to explore the incredible beauty of the Beehive State with our curated list of the 18 best hikes in Utah. These trails are our top picks for a good reason - as they capture the landscapes and natural wonders that make Utah a hiker's paradise. From the iconic Delicate Arch in Arches National Park to the breathtaking vistas of Angels Landing in Zion National Park, each hike offers a unique experience. Whether you're seeking dramatic rock formations, serene waterfalls, or panoramic views, these trails have something for every adventurer. Lace up your boots and gear up for an unforgettable hiking journey through the spectacular terrain of Utah.

Best Hikes in Utah

Utah is a haven for the outdoors-y, offering a plethora of hikes that showcase the state's natural beauty. Among the best trails are the Angels Landing Trail in Zion National Park, the Navajo Loop and Queens Garden Trail in Bryce Canyon National Park, and the Delicate Arch Trail in Arches National Park. So grab your hiking boots, pack some snacks, and get ready to be blown away by the best hikes in Utah.

1. Angels Landing Trail

• Location: Springdale
• Mileage: 4.3-mile out-and-back trail
• Difficulty: Hard
• FYI: For your safety, please exercise caution by avoiding the edges and refraining from hiking this trail during adverse weather conditions or strong winds. If you have a fear of heights, it is advisable to choose an alternative trail. Additionally, if you plan to start late in the day, allow yourself enough time to complete the hike before darkness sets in. While this trail is popular throughout the year, it is recommended to visit during the spring or fall to avoid the intense heat of summer afternoons. Keep in mind that there is an entrance fee for accessing Zion National Park. Furthermore, it is important to note that permits are mandatory and non-transferable for hiking the Angels Landing trail. Be cautious of resellers, as resold permits will not be valid.

We highly recommend exploring the Angels Landing Trail in Zion National Park near Springdale, Utah. This 4.3-mile out-and-back trail offers a thrilling and challenging experience, featuring steep drop-offs and narrow sections. It is renowned for its technical route and breathtaking views of Zion Canyon, making it the most popular hike in the area. It's a hike worth checking out if you're up for an experience that will get your heart pumping!

2. Navajo Loop and Queens Garden Trail

• Location: Bryce
• Mileage: 3.1-mile loop trail
• Difficulty: Moderate
• FYI: This trail is highly frequented by hikers, so expect to cross paths with fellow adventurers during your exploration. It is recommended to visit this trail between March and October for the optimal experience. Please note that this trail does not permit dogs, so it's best to leave your furry friends at home. Additionally, Bryce Canyon National Park requires an entrance fee for access.

Check out this hike that will leave you in awe of Bryce Canyon National Park's views and unique rock formations. This moderate trail takes you up close and personal with the park's most iconic features, including Queen Victoria and Thor's Hammer. You'll feel otherworldly as you explore the mesmerizing hoodoos and towering spires.

Hoodoos undergo a series of stages during their formation. It starts with water eroding rocky plateaus into fins. These fins become thinner, creating window-like holes in the center. Over time, the top portion of the window collapses, leaving behind a hoodoo. In Bryce Canyon, "frost wedging" is the main cause of erosion. Rainwater seeps into rock cracks, freezes, and expands, leading to larger cracks and further erosion.

3. Delicate Arch Trail

• Location: Moab
• Mileage: 3.2-mile out-and-back trail
• Difficulty: Moderate
• FYI: Expect to encounter other hikers in this popular area, as it is well-loved for its scenic trails. The trail is open year-round, and no dogs are allowed. Additionally, there is an entrance fee for Arches National Park, and timed entry tickets are required between April 1 and October 31, 2023.

Embark on the 3.2-mile Delicate Arch Trail near Moab, Utah. It's a moderately challenging route that typically takes around an hour and a half to complete. This trail in Arches National Park leads you to the iconic Delicate Arch, surrounded by stunning red rock slabs, smaller stone arches, balanced rocks, and towering sandstone fins. While there are exposed slickrock sections, the trail is not overly technical. Be sure to check out Utah's most recognizable natural arch while in the area it's a must-see!

Best Short & Easy Hikes in Utah

If you're looking for short and easy hikes in Utah that still pack a punch, you can't miss out on The Zion Narrows Riverside Walk, Sunset Point to Sunrise Point in Bryce Canyon, and the Landscape Arch Trail in Arches National Park. These hikes may be short and sweet, but they'll leave you with unforgettable memories of Utah's natural splendor.

4. The Zion Narrows Riverside Walk

• Location: Springdale
• Mileage: 1.9-mile out-and-back trail
• Difficulty: Easy
• FYI: You can expect to come across hikers, runners, and walkers in this popular spot. The trail is perfect for a visit from March to October. Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted on this trail. Keep in mind that private vehicles are not allowed on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive during the shuttle season. Additionally, there is an entrance fee for Zion National Park.

Discover the 1.9-mile Riverside Walk Trail near Springdale, Utah. It's an easy and popular route, typically taking around 45 minutes to complete. A visit to Zion National Park to hike The Narrows is a must for outdoor enthusiasts. The Riverside Walk Trail is the starting point, offering a relatively easy and paved out-and-back experience. Located at the end of the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, this trail is the gateway to The Narrows. This trail covers only the maintained section, but those seeking a longer adventure can continue along the full Zion Narrows route. Near the end of the trail, you'll find sandy areas where you can relax and cool off in the refreshing waters. Walking amidst towering canyon walls alongside the beautiful Virgin River, a journey through Utah's renowned slot canyon promises an unforgettable experience.

5. Sunset Point to Sunrise Point

• Location: Bryce
• Mileage: 1.1-mile out-and-back trail
• Difficulty: Easy
• FYI: You'll encounter fellow walkers in this popular area. Dogs are allowed on a leash. The trail is accessible for wheelchairs, kids, and strollers. Keep in mind there's an entrance fee for Bryce Canyon National Park.

You won't want to miss this easy and short hike, taking only around 24 minutes to complete. It's the perfect way to kick off your Bryce Canyon adventure. The views from this trail are incredible, giving you a great idea of what the park offers, with scenic views and expansive vistas from above. This hike is a breeze, with a paved and accessible path that allows you to soak in the breathtaking sights, including the Bryce Amphitheater.

6. Landscape Arch Trail

• Location: Moab
• Mileage: 1.9-mile out-and-back trail near
• Difficulty: Easy
• FYI: Popular area for hikers and walkers. Open year-round with stunning views. No dogs allowed. Partially paved trail for hiking and walking. Entrance fee for Arches National Park.

Get ready for a fun time on this easy two-mile trail in Arches National Park. The path is well-maintained, so you'll have no trouble reaching the massive Landscape Arch. It's seriously impressive, and you can even get close to it for some epic photo ops. And the best time to go? Sunrise - the views will take your breath away. Don't forget to check out the signs along the way, too - there are some cool stories about the arch's history.

Hardest Hikes in Utah

The state offers a variety of difficult hikes that are not for the faint-hearted. Among these hikes is the East Rim Trail to Mystery Canyon, which is considered one of the hardest hikes in the state due to its rugged terrain and steep ascents. Another hike is The Ridges of Albion Basin, known for its narrow trails and steep drop-offs. Finally, Cascade Mountain to Provo Peak via Upper Pole Couloir is a hike that requires technical skills to navigate the steep couloir. Overall, Utah has some of the most challenging hikes in the country, which offer stunning views and a great sense of accomplishment for those who can conquer them.

7. East Rim Trail to Mystery Canyon

• Location: Virgin
• Mileage: 8.9-mile point-to-point trail
• Difficulty: Hard
• FYI: Great trail for hiking with minimal crowds. No dogs allowed. Features a forest, river, and scenic views. Private vehicles not allowed on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive during shuttle season. Entrance fee for Zion National Park.

Set out on an epic adventure along the 8.9-mile point-to-point Mystery Canyon trail near Virgin, Utah. Brace yourself for a challenging route that will test your skills and endurance, with an average completion time of almost 11 hours. This technical canyoneering experience is not for the faint of heart and requires a permit, skills, and specialized equipment. As a result of the delicate canyon ecosystem, only a limited number of 12 individuals per day are allowed to explore Mystery Canyon. The allocated permits are through a lottery system, so securing one for this highly sought-after adventure is no easy task. Are you up for this thrilling bucket list trail?

8. The Ridges of Albion Basin

• Location: near Sandy
• Mileage: 14.7-mile loop trail
• Difficulty: Hard
• FYI: Ideal for backpacking, hiking, and running, this trail offers a secluded experience with few fellow visitors. The optimal months to visit are July through September. Please note that dogs are not permitted on this trail, so it's best to leave them at home.

Want to hear about this 14.7-mile loop trail in Sandy? It's no walk in the park, though. The route is considered a real challenge and will put you to the test. Get ready to conquer Superior and Monte Cristo, then soak in the magnificent views as you follow the ridgeline to Hidden Peak. There will be some thrilling moments, with sections of Class 3 scrambling and even Class 4 moves when you tackle Flagstaff Peak and Devil's Castle. This trail isn't for the faint of heart, so be prepared for a full day of adventure, with few chances to take it easy along the way. But the panoramic vistas of Little Cottonwood are worth every ounce of effort, and you'll feel like a true champion when you reach the finish line.

9. Cascade Mountain to Provo Peak via Upper Pole Couloir

• Location: near Orem
• Mileage: 14.8-mile loop trail
• Difficulty: Hard
• FYI: Perfect for both hiking and off-road driving, this trail provides a fantastic experience with limited crowds.

Take on an incredible 14.8-mile loop trail in Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, known for its challenging nature, taking around 12 hours to complete. This trail offers an exciting ridge traversal from Cascade Mountain to Provo Peak. However, we must emphasize that the section between Shingle Mill and Provo Peaks is not suitable for regular hikers. It requires daring class 3-4 scrambling, adding an element of danger. But the views along this trail are simply breathtaking. Remember to bring ample water, as there are limited shade spots, and be prepared for some bushwhacking along the way. It's a demanding endeavor, but the beauty of the surroundings makes it all worthwhile.

Best Waterfront Hikes in Utah

If you're looking for waterfront hikes, Utah has got you covered. Some of the best trails you should check out include the Lake Blanche Trail, Bell Canyon Trail to Lower Falls, and Lake Mary Trail. No matter which you pick, you're in for a real treat and a truly unforgettable experience in Utah's natural scenery. Get your hiking boots ready!

10. Lake Blanche Trail

• Location: Mounthaven
• Mileage: 6.8-mile out-and-back trail
• Difficulty: Hard
• FYI: This trail is popular for backpacking, camping, and hiking, so expect to encounter other people. The recommended visitation period is June through October. However, dogs are not permitted on this trail, so it's best to leave them at home. It's important to bring enough water and insect repellent. If you plan on hiking later in the day, consider packing a flashlight in case your journey takes longer than expected. And if you're hiking in the winter, bring spikes and poles for extra traction.

Despite its intense nature, this hike in the Twin Peaks Wilderness Area offers a mountaintop lake, incredible vistas, and abundant wildlife. Be prepared to take frequent breaks and catch your breath, as there are no flat sections. The strenuous ascent rewards you with gorgeous views of Sundial Peak several miles up the canyon and the Great Salt Lake Valley to the west. Upon reaching the top, you'll see three exquisite lakes: Lake Blanche, Lake Florence, and Lake Lillian. As you approach the lakes, you may even catch glimpses of parts of Salt Lake City from the trail. The challenging climb is well worth the effort for the remarkable experiences and scenery you'll encounter along the journey.

11. Bell Canyon Trail to Lower Falls

• Location: Sandy
• Mileage: 4.6-mile out-and-back trail
• Difficulty: Moderate
• FYI: Popular for hiking, snowshoeing, and running, this trail attracts a considerable number of visitors. The recommended visitation period is June through October. However, dogs are not allowed on this trail. It's important to note that the trail accesses or traverses potential avalanche terrain, so caution is advised.

Venture on the Bells Canyon Trail, a short yet taxing hike in the Wasatch Mountains. Begin your journey with the serene beauty of Lower Bell Canyon Reservoir. As you venture deeper into the canyon, brace yourself for rugged and steep terrain, so remember to carry plenty of water to stay hydrated. Your expedition concludes at the lower falls, a perfect resting spot after conquering the rapid elevation gain. Throughout the hike, you'll catch magnificent panoramas of the surrounding canyon and captivating cityscapes below.

12. Lake Mary Trail

• Location: Salt Lake City
• Mileage: 2.6-mile out-and-back trail
• Difficulty: Moderate
• FYI: Popular for camping, cross-country skiing, and fishing, this area attracts many visitors. The trail is best visited from January through October. However, dogs are not permitted on this trail, so it's important to leave them at home.

Take a trip on this 2.6-mile out-and-back trail near Salt Lake City. It's a moderately challenging route that typically takes around 1 hour and 38 minutes to complete. The Lake Mary Trail offers a relatively easy and enjoyable hike, but watch out for the steeper and rockier sections outside of winter. If you're not used to higher elevations, it might be a bit more of a challenge, so come prepared. No matter your skill level, you'll love exploring the wondrous Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest along this trail.

Best Winter Hikes in Utah

Looking for some of the best winter hikes in Utah? Look no further than Fastpitch Trail, North Fork Loop, and Big Mountain Pass in Little Dell Rec Area! These trails offer views of the surrounding mountains and are perfect for a winter hike. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just starting out, these trails offer something for everyone.

13. Fastpitch Trail

• Location: Park City
• Mileage: 2.2-mile loop trail
• Difficulty: Easy
• FYI: This trail is great for birding, hiking, and walking, with opportunities for solitude during quieter times. It's open year-round and offers beautiful scenery anytime, especially in winter.

This 2.2-mile loop trail in Park City is a breeze to navigate. During the winter, you'll encounter plenty of cross country skiers and dogs enjoying the trail. It's a favorite spot for birding, hiking, and leisurely walks. The route is exceptionally easy and flat, making it perfect for families with young children who want to enjoy a fun and relaxed outing. It's a simple, enjoyable experience that everyone can appreciate.

14. North Fork Loop

• Location: Kamas
• Mileage: 4.1-mile loop trail
• Difficulty: Easy
• FYI: This trail is favored for hiking, horseback riding, and snowshoeing. Dogs are allowed on certain days, so ensure they're permitted before your visit. Please note that there may be an entrance fee to access the trail.

The North Fork Loop is a delightful 4.1-mile loop trail in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest near Kamas, Utah. This trail is known for its ease, typically taking around an hour and a half to complete, and is a popular choice for hikers, horseback riders, and snowshoers alike. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, ensuring a hassle-free experience. During winter, you'll be greeted by excellent snow coverage, making it ideal for skiing and snowshoeing adventures. Whether seeking a hike or a winter outing, the North Fork Loop offers a picturesque and enjoyable experience.

15. Big Mountain Pass in Little Dell Rec Area

• Location: Salt Lake City
• Mileage: 7.4-mile out-and-back trail
• Difficulty: Moderate
• FYI: This trail is well-known for birding, cross-country skiing, and hiking. Please remember that dogs are not permitted on this trail.

Get ready to tackle the Big Mountain Pass trail in Little Dell Rec Area in Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest! This 7.4-mile out-and-back trail near Salt Lake City offers a moderately challenging route that typically takes around three hours to complete.

The trail is popular among nature lovers, attracting birding enthusiasts, cross-country skiers, and hikers. Whether exploring during warmer months or venturing out in winter, there's something for everyone. Hiking, running, and mountain biking are great options during the pleasant seasons, while winter brings ample opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter hiking.

No matter when you go, the Big Mountain Pass trail promises beautiful scenery and a chance to connect with nature.

Best Hikes near Salt Lake City

If you're on the lookout for some great hikes near Salt Lake City, we highly recommend checking out Donut Falls Trail, Living Room Lookout Trail, and Cecret Lake Trail. These are some of the best hikes in the area, with beautiful scenery and challenging terrain that will keep you engaged throughout your journey.

16. Donut Falls Trail

• Location: Salt Lake City
• Mileage: 3.3-mile out-and-back trail
• Difficulty: Moderate
• FYI: Expect a high volume of hikers and walkers in this popular area. The recommended visitation period is from April to October. Please note that dogs are not permitted on this trail.

Looking for a fantastic time? Check out the Donut Falls Trail located near Salt Lake City. This 3.3-mile out-and-back trail is generally considered moderately challenging, taking around an hour and a half to complete. Donut Falls is a popular destination for hiking and walking, and it's not hard to see why. This easy and family-friendly hike is just a short drive from Salt Lake City, making it a convenient choice, and the highlight of the trail is the incredibly unique waterfall that gives it its name.

17. Living Room Lookout Trail

• Location: Salt Lake City
• Mileage: 2.3-mile out-and-back trail
• Difficulty: Moderate
• FYI: Expect to encounter fellow hikers in this highly popular hiking area. Dogs are welcome on the trail but must be kept on a leash.

Get ready for an exciting adventure on the Living Room Lookout Trail, one of the most heavily trafficked trails in the foothills near Salt Lake City, Utah. This trail will take you to an epic overlook with interesting rock formations that resemble chairs and couches, earning it the name "Living Room Lookout." As you make your way to the top, be prepared to be mesmerized by the stunning views and the cool rock formations.

18. Cecret Lake Trail

• Location: Salt Lake City
• Mileage: 1.8-mile out-and-back trail
• Difficulty: Moderate
• FYI: This area is highly popular for camping, hiking, and snowshoeing, so expect to encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are from June to September. Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on this trail.

Prepare for a fun outing on the Cecret Lake Trail near Alta Ski Area in Little Cottonwood Canyon. It's the perfect hike for families and offers views of an alpine lake in the Albion Basin. Starting at an elevation of 9000', this popular day trip from Salt Lake City is a must-visit. You'll find the trailhead conveniently located near Albion Basin Campground, and if you're up for more exploration, consider continuing your hike to Sugarloaf Peak. Don't forget to take a break at the lake and capture precious family moments against the stunning mountain backdrop. This hike is relatively easy, but be sure to arrive early due to its popularity. With so many amazing trails in the Wasatch National Forest, the Cecret Lake Trail stands out as one of the best.

Have you enjoyed any of these trails? Think they are some of the best hiking trails in Utah? What do you think are the best places for a day hike in Utah? Let us know your favorites – we’d love to hear from you!

Whether you’re looking for a difficult hike with lots of switchbacks or on the hunt for trails for beginners in southern Utah, this hub has everything you’ll need, and be sure to Try AllTrails+ For Free!