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 featuring 12 of the best hikes in Utah that you need to explore, one for every month of the year. So, without further ado, let’s go hiking!
January: Mesa Arch Trail, Canyonlands National Park
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.
Mesa Arch Trail, Utah 84532, USA
February: Canyon Overlook Trail, Zion National Park
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.
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. This is one of the best hikes in Utah and a scenic trail your entire family will enjoy exploring.
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 on the National Park Service website.
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.
Kanarra Creek Trailhead, Kanarraville, UT 84742, 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.
Brighton Resort, 8302 S Brighton Loop Rd, Brighton, UT 84121, USA
You will find the Wind Cave Trailhead approximately six miles up Logan Canyon. This trail is four 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! The Wind Cave Trail is one of the most scenic hikes in Utah and definitely worth tackling when in the northern part of the state.
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.
Stewart Falls Trail, Utah 84604, USA
September: Lake Blanche Trail, Big Cottonwood Canyon
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.
Lake Blanche Trail, Utah 84121, USA
October: Stairs Gulch Trail, Big Cottonwood Canyon
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.
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. Every step throughout the Pine Hollow Trail in American Fork Canyon is beautiful and there's no doubt this is one of the best hiking trails in Utah.
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.
Grandeur Peak, Utah 84109, USA
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? What do you consider are the best hikes in Utah? Share your thoughts with us in the comments.
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The OIYS Visitor Center
Best Hikes in Utah
December 23, 2022
Courtnie Erickson
What are some of the best hikes in Utah?
Creating a list of the best hikes in Utah is no easy task. All over the state, there are incredible hikes that deserve your time and attention. But, if we had to list some of the scenic hikes in Utah that deserve a spot on your bucket list, it would include:
Sometimes you need a short and easy hike that is perfect for the entire family. While there are many options all over the state, some of our favorite easy hikes in the Beehive State include:
What are some outdoor hidden gems in Utah that I should check out?
Utah is full of hidden gems and many of these unique and extraordinary destinations are located outdoors. If you want to check out some of the best hidden gems in Utah that are in the midst of the Beehive State’s natural beauty, consider a visit to the following:
If you want a unique way to view many of the hidden gems scattered around the state, check out one of our hidden gem road trips. These trips will take you to destinations that you certainly need to visit at least once.
