12 Scenic Trails To Explore In Utah, One For Each Month Of The Year
There is nothing better than getting outdoors, enjoying some fresh air, and basking in the beauty of Utah. Every corner of the Beehive State is home to spectacular hiking trails that are awe-inspiring. You don’t have to limit hiking in Utah to just the summer months either. In fact, there are trails all around the state that are worth exploring all year long. We’ve compiled a list of 12 scenic hikes in Utah that you need to explore, one for every month of the year. So, without further ado, let’s go hiking!
During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
Mesa Arch Trail, Utah 84532, USA
Mesa Arch is one of the most photographed arches in Utah and when you see it up close, you’ll quickly understand why. To access this trail in Canyonlands National Park, you will have an easy 0.5-mile trek ahead of you. This trail is open year-round and is ideal during the cooler months of the year. Learn all about this scenic hiking trail in Utah here.
Zion National Park, UT, Springdale, UT 84737, USA
When the weather is cold and snowy in the northern part of the state, head down south to the beautiful Zion National Park. Here, you will find the Zion Canyon Overlook Trail, which is one mile, out and back. This trail includes stairs, slick rock, and the most amazing cliff overlook. You can learn more about this trail in Zion National Park here.
Cascade Springs, Utah 84604, USA
Cascade Springs Interpretive Boardwalk Trail is located on the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway and is the perfect outdoor adventure for the entire family. You will find three small loops that will take you all over the beautiful terrain. You’ll cross bridges, view small waterfalls, and see some mesmerizing scenery. Click here to learn more about this scenic trail in Utah.
Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah, USA
The Rim Trail at Bryce Canyon National Park takes you to some of the most magical overlooks in this national park. The trail is 5.5 miles one way, so it’s not a short hike. However, there are smaller increments you may choose to complete if you don't want to complete the full hike. This trail will take you along the rim of Fairyland Canyon and Bryce Canyon, giving you beautiful views of the hoodoos and the canyon below. You can learn more about this trail and the various trail options here.
Kanarra Creek Trailhead, Kanarraville, UT 84742, USA
Kanarra Falls is a true hidden gem in Utah. Along this hike, you will walk through a beautiful slot canyon, see gorgeous waterfalls, climb on ladders, and more. This is one hike that is not for the faint of heart or for young children as there are difficult obstacles to pass and flash flood danger, particularly between July and September. You will also need a permit for this hike as only a certain number of individuals are allowed on the trail each day. Click here to learn more about this Utah hike.
Brighton Resort, 8302 S Brighton Loop Rd, Brighton, UT 84121, USA
There is truly nothing like the Brighton Lakes Trail in Utah. This hiking trail starts at the base of the Brighton Resort and will take you all the way to Catherine Pass. You will pass two of the three Brighton Lakes and during the spring and summer months, you will find some beautiful wildflowers along your journey. Once you reach your destination, you’ll be able to see for miles so give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the beauty of the area. Click here to learn more about the Brighton Lakes Trail in Utah.
Wind Caves, Utah 84341, USA
You will find the Wind Cave Trailhead approximately six miles up Logan Canyon. This trail is 4-miles out and back and a bit challenging. You will climb more than 1,000 feet to reach your destination, but believe us, it is so worth it. Not only are the views breathtaking at the top, but the wind caves (which are actually natural arches) are incredible! Learn more about the Wind Cave Trail here.
Stewart Falls Trail, Utah 84604, USA
Stewart Falls is a 4-mile, out-and-back trail in Provo Canyon. This hike will take you to some of the most beautiful scenery and gorgeous overlooks. Plus, the 200-foot two-tiered waterfall is well worth every step of the journey. You can learn more about this hike in Utah here.
Lake Blanche Trail, Utah 84121, USA
The Lake Blanche Trail in Big Cottonwood Canyon will take you to some incredible fall foliage and Autumn beauty. This is a difficult hike and is better suited for experienced hikers and those who are up for a challenge. This trail is 6.9 miles out and back so make sure you bring plenty of supplies to help you complete this journey. For more information on the Lake Blanche Trail, click here.
Stairs Gulch, Utah 84121, USA
If you want some gorgeous views and breathtaking fall foliage but you don’t want to hike all day, Stairs Gulch Trail in Big Cottonwood Canyon is perfect. This is a 1.6-mile, out-and-back trail. Make sure you wear proper hiking shoes as there is quite an uphill climb. Click here to learn more about this short scenic hiking trail in Utah.
Pine Hollow Trail, Utah 84604, USA
The Pine Hollow Trail in Utah is a 4.3-mile loop trail that is rated moderate. You will climb nearly 1,300 feet, so make sure you are prepared physically and mentally. Along this trail, you will have beautiful mountain views, walk through thick aspen trees, and more. Fall is one of the best times for this trail as the fall colors are amazing. If hiking too far into the winter months, trek carefully as you will cross into avalanche terrain. You can learn all about the Pine Hollow Trail in American Fork Canyon here.
Grandeur Peak, Utah 84109, USA
If you want to climb a mountain peak in Utah during the winter, Grandeur Peak is one of the best options. This trail starts at Church Fork Trailhead and you will climb 2.25 miles to your destination. However, this is a steep climb so make sure you are prepared. This is also a busy trail so the snow may be packed down. However, just to be safe, we recommend bringing snowshoes along. Learn more about this hike here.
Are there any hikes we left off this list or is there a particular hike in Utah you enjoy during certain months of the year? Tell us all about it in the comments!
Address: Brighton Resort, 8302 S Brighton Loop Rd, Brighton, UT 84121, USA
Address: Zion National Park, UT, Springdale, UT 84737, USA
Address: Cascade Springs, Utah 84604, USA
Address: Grandeur Peak, Utah 84109, USA
Address: Kanarra Creek Trailhead, Kanarraville, UT 84742, USA
Address: Mesa Arch Trail, Utah 84532, USA
Address: Pine Hollow Trail, Utah 84604, USA
Address: Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah, USA
Address: Stairs Gulch, Utah 84121, USA
Address: Stewart Falls Trail, Utah 84604, USA
Address: Wind Caves, Utah 84341, USA
Address: Lake Blanche Trail, Utah 84121, USA
