Where Are Good Hiking Trails In Utah? | Hikers University

If you are like to take up the challenge of trekking through tough conditions, Utah offers some great hiking opportunities. Where are good hiking trails in Utah?

Hiking in an arid, desert-like climate poses different challenges. Utah is known to have hot and dry weather during the summers, and it can get freezing cold in the winter.

A few good hiking trails in Utah are inside the Arches National Park. This park is home to multiple arches. In addition to this, you can head to Vermillion Cliffs, Monte Cristo, or Mount Timpanogos. All these areas have good hiking trails.

There are many hiking trails in Utah. However, the harsh weather in both winter and summer adds to the difficulty of all trails. Using proper equipment such as hiking boots, sunshades, and good sunscreen is essential to keep yourself protected.

According to experienced hikers, if you are considering hiking in Utah, the weather is one of the most important factors. Remember to keep yourself well-equipped with plenty of water and snacks. The hot and dry weather can quickly cause dehydration, and you hardly find water along trails. You should also consider your fitness and experience before heading out to long trails.

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Hiking in Utah

Utah is a well-known hiking destination. With its many wilderness areas, there are plenty of trails to choose from that offer a challenging and rewarding experience. Whether you're looking for a short hike or something more strenuous, Utah offers everyone who loves spending time outdoors.

The Delicate Arch

One of Utah's most popular hiking trails is the Delicate Arch Trail. This trail is located in Arches National Park and takes hikers to one of the most iconic landmarks in the state, Delicate Arch. The hike to Delicate Arch is not difficult, but it is considered moderate due to its length. The round trip hike is just over three miles long and will take about two hours to complete for most people.

The Delicate Arch trailhead is located just a short drive from the town of Moab. To get there, simply follow the signs for Arches National Park from Highway 191. Once you enter the park, follow the main road until you reach the Devils Garden Campground. From here, it is a short walk to the Delicate Arch Trailhead.

As with any hike, be sure to come prepared. Ensure you have plenty of water and snacks, as there is no water available on the trail. The summer months can be extremely hot in Utah, so it is important to start your hike early to avoid the heat of the afternoon sun. Hiking in winter can also be a great option, as long as you are prepared for cold temperatures and potentially icy conditions.

Whether you're a new hiker or an expert, the Delicate Arch Trail is necessary when visiting Utah. With its stunning views and easy accessibility, this trail is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy all that Utah offers.

The Landscape Arch

Just a short drive from Moab, Utah, is the Arches National Park. This park is home to over 2000 natural sandstone arches. Another popular and easily accessible arch in the park is Landscape Arch.

Landscape Arch is located on an easy hiking trail that takes about 30 minutes to complete. The trailhead for this hike is located near the Devils Garden Campground, just off of the main road through Arches National Park.

This arch gets its name from its unique shape. Landscape Arch is one of the widest natural bridges in the world, measuring 306 feet across!

Despite its size, Landscape Arch is surprisingly fragile. In 1991, a large section of rock fell from the underside of the arch, leaving it even thinner than before.

Landscape Arch is still a popular destination for hikers and photographers alike despite its fragile state. The best time to visit is in the early morning or evening when the lighting is more subdued. This will help you avoid the harsh midday sun and allow you to get some great photos of this unique natural wonder.

So whether you're looking for a short and easy hike or something a little more challenging, be sure to add Landscape Arch to your list when visiting Utah. With its stunning views and easy accessibility, this trail is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy all that Utah has to offer.

When planning your hike, be sure to check the weather conditions in advance. While the arch is accessible all year-round, certain times of the year may present more challenging conditions. Temperatures can exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer, making an early morning start essential. Winter brings colder temperatures and potential ice on the trail, so come prepared with proper gear if you're visiting during this time of year.

No matter when you visit, Landscape Arch is sure to impress. So make sure to add it to your list of must-see sights when hiking in Utah!

Joint Trail Loop

The Joint Trail Loop is a great option for those looking for a longer hike in Arches National Park. This trail is just over seven miles long and takes about four hours to complete for most hikers.

The trailhead for the Joint Trail Loop is located near the Devils Garden Campground, just off of the main road through Arches National Park.

This trail gets its name from the two different types of rock that make up the majority of the trail. The first section of the trail comprises Entrada Sandstone, which is relatively soft and easy to hike on. The second section comprises harder sandstone called Kayenta, which can be more challenging to hike on.

This trail is fairly easy and can be completed by most hikers of average fitness levels despite its length. However, a few sections may be more challenging for those who are not used to hiking at high altitudes.

If you're looking for a longer hike with stunning views, the Joint Trail Loop is a great option when visiting Arches National Park. Be sure to come prepared with plenty of water and snacks, as there are no water sources available on the trail. And remember to start early in the day during the summer months to avoid the heat of the afternoon sun.

Winter can also be a great time to hike this trail, as long as you're prepared for cold temperatures and potentially icy conditions. So whether you're a seasoned or a new hiker, the Joint Trail Loop is a great option for anyone looking to explore all that Arches National Park has to offer.

Mesa Arch

One of the most popular sights in Canyonlands National Park is Mesa Arch. This arch is located on the Island in the Sky district of the park and can be reached via a short and easy hike. The trailhead for Mesa Arch is located near the Grand View Point. Mesa Arch gets its name from its location on top of a mesa. This gives visitors stunning views of the surrounding canyonlands from underneath the arch.

Mesa Arch is also a popular spot for photographers. The best time to photograph the arch is in the early morning or evening when the lighting is more subdued. If you're visiting Canyonlands National Park, be sure to add Mesa Arch to your list of must-see sights. With its easy accessibility and stunning views, this is one spot you won't want to miss!

Grand Wash Hiking Trail

Grand Wash is located in the Grand Canyon National Park. This trail is a great option for a longer hike, as it is just over seven miles long. The Grand Wash Hiking Trail gets its name from its location on a mesa. This gives visitors stunning views of the surrounding canyonlands.

The Grand Wash Hiking Trail is also a popular spot for photographers. The best time to photograph the arch is in the early morning or evening when the lighting is more restrained. If you're visiting Canyon Lands National Park, be sure to add the Grand Wash Hiking Trail to your list of must-see sights. With its easy accessibility and stunning views, this is one spot you won't want to miss!

The views from the Grand Wash Hiking Trail are truly breathtaking. You can see for long stretches in every direction on a clear day. The trail is fairly easy to hike and can be completed by most people of average fitness levels.

However, a few sections may be more challenging for those who are not used to hiking at high altitudes. Be sure to come prepared with plenty of water and snacks, as there are no water sources available on the trail. And remember to start early in the day during the summer months to avoid the heat of the afternoon sun.

Winter can also be a great time to hike this trail, as long as you're prepared for cold temperatures and potentially icy conditions. So whether you're a professional hiker or just getting started with hiking, the Grand Wash Hiking Trail is a great option for anyone looking to explore all that Canyonlands National Park has to offer.

Lower Calf Creek Falls

Lower Calf Creek Falls gets its name from its location on a mesa. This gives visitors stunning views of the surrounding canyonlands from underneath the arch.

Lower Calf Creek Falls is also a popular spot for photographers. The best time to photograph the arch is in the early morning or evening when the lighting is more subdued. If you're visiting Canyonlands National Park, be sure to add Lower Calf Creek Falls to your list of must-see sights. With its easy accessibility and stunning views, this is one spot you won't want to miss!

The views from Lower Calf Creek Falls are truly breathtaking. On a clear day, you can see for miles in every direction. The trail is easy to hike and can be completed by most people.

However, some places may be more difficult for individuals unfamiliar with climbing high elevations. Because there are no water sources on the path, remember to bring lots of water and food with you. Try your best to start earlier during the day to escape the heat of the afternoon sun during the summer months.

Winter can also be a great time to hike this trail, as long as you're prepared for cold temperatures and potentially icy conditions. So whether you're an experienced or a new hiker, Lower Calf Creek Falls is a great option for anyone looking to explore all that Canyonlands National Park has to offer.

Peekaboo Loop

Peekaboo Loop is located in Bryce Canyon National Park. This trail is a great option for a shorter hike, as it is only about two miles long.

The Peekaboo Loop trailhead is located near the Sunset Point overlook. From there, it is only a few miles to the arch itself. The Peekaboo Loop gets its name from its location on a mesa. This gives visitors stunning views of the surrounding canyonlands from underneath the arch. The Peekaboo Loop is also a popular spot for photographers. The best time to photograph the arch is in the early morning or evening when the lighting is more subdued.

If you're visiting Bryce Canyon National Park, be sure to add Peekaboo Loop to your list of must-see sights. With its easy accessibility and stunning views, this is one spot you won't want to miss! So whether you're a seasoned hiker or just getting started, the Peekaboo Loop is a great option for anyone looking to explore all that Bryce Canyon National Park has to offer.

The Narrows Hiking Trail

The Narrows Hiking Trail is located in Zion National Park. This trail is among the longer hikes, as it is just over sixteen miles long. The Narrows Hiking Trail gets its name from its location on a mesa. This gives visitors stunning views of the surrounding canyonlands from underneath the arch.

The Narrows Hiking Trail is also a popular spot for photographers. The best time to photograph the arch is in the early morning or evening when the lighting is more somber. The Narrows Hiking Trail is a must-see sight. With its easy accessibility and stunning views, this is one spot you won't want to miss!

Remember to bring lots of water and food with you, as there are no water sources on the trail. It can get scorching hot in Utah. Aim to start earlier in the day during the summer months to avoid the sun's heat. Winter can also be a great time to hike this trail, as long as you're prepared for cold temperatures and potentially icy conditions.

So whether you're just getting started or a seasoned hiker, The Narrows Hiking Trail is a great option for anyone looking to explore all Zion National Park offers.

Angel's Landing

The trail is located in Zion National Park in southwestern Utah. The park is accessible by car from the town of Springdale, Utah. The trailhead is located near the visitor center. The hike to Angel's Landing is strenuous, with an elevation gain of over 1400 feet. It is recommended for experienced hikers only as there are several sections where the trail is very narrow, with steep drop-offs on either side. There are also several areas where chains have been installed to assist in climbing up or down the rock faces.

The views from Angel's Landing are truly breathtaking and well worth the effort required to get there. On a clear day, you can see for miles in all directions. Make sure to bring your camera to capture the memories of this amazing place.

If you are up for a challenge and are looking for an adventure, then add the Angel's Landing Trail to your list of hikes to do. You won't be disappointed!

Zion National Park is one of Utah's most popular tourist destinations, and it's easy to see why. The park is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the state, and there are plenty of activities to keep visitors busy. One of the most popular attractions in Zion National Park is the Angel's Landing Trail.

The Subway

The Subway is a world-famous trail located in Zion National Park, Utah. The trail is difficult, and the duration can vary depending on your fitness level. The average hiker takes between four and six hours to complete the trail. There are two different routes you can take when hiking The Subway. The first route is through the bottom of a slot canyon. This route is shorter, but it requires scrambling over boulders and swimming through cold water. The second route is longer, but it's easier because it follows a path along the canyon walls. Whichever route you choose, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience.

Zion National Park is one of the most popular parks in the United States, and for a good reason. With its red rocks, canyons, rivers, and mountains, it's easy to see why many people flock to this park each year. And while there are plenty of hikes to choose from in Zion, one of the most popular is The Subway.

This trail is not for the faint of heart, but the views are well worth the effort. So, if you're looking for an adventure and want to see some of the most incredible views in Zion National Park, be sure to add The Subway to your list.

The views from The Subway are truly breathtaking. As you hike through the canyon, you'll be surrounded by red rocks. And if you take the second route, along the top of the canyon walls, you'll also get sweeping views of the valleys below. This is a hike that you won't soon forget, no matter which route you choose. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Zion National Park for an unforgettable adventure.

The Wave in Vermilion Cliffs

The Wave is located in the Vermillion Cliffs Wilderness Area, which is part of the larger Vermillion Cliffs National Monument. The area is known for its impressive rock formations that have developed over millions of years by water and wind erosion. The Wave itself is a formation of sandstone that has naturally sculpted over time.

The Wave is one of the most photographed locations globally, and for good reason. The red rock formations will take your breath away. While it may seem like a place that would be difficult to get to, the truth is that it's quite easy - as long as you're willing to put in a little bit of effort.

There are two ways to access The Wave. The first is by permit only and requires hiking ten miles round trip. This option is only available to those in good physical shape and who have experience hiking in desert conditions. The second option is much easier and only requires a four-mile round trip. However, this option is only available during certain times of the year.

If you're interested in visiting The Wave, be sure to do your research and plan ahead. It's an incredible place that you won't want to miss!

The area around The Wave is full of other amazing sights as well, so even if you don't get a permit to see The Wave itself, there's still plenty to explore. Vermillion Cliffs National Monument is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country, so make sure to add it to your list of places to see.

Permits to access The Wave are available through a lottery system, and only a limited number are given out each day. If you're lucky enough to get a permit, make sure to follow the rules and regulations to preserve this amazing place for future generations. And above all else, have fun and enjoy your time in one of the most incredible places on earth!

Mount Timpanogos

Mount Timpanogos is a popular mountain for hiking, camping, picnicking, fishing, and many outdoor activities. The trail is about 11 miles long, and the summit elevation is 11,752 feet (3586 meters). The trailhead starts at Aspen Grove in American Fork Canyon and winds its way up through alpine meadows and forests before reaching the timberline. From there, it's a scramble to the top, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding mountains. Just bring plenty of water and snacks, as there is no water available once you start the ascent.

Mount Timpanogos is a beautiful mountain that offers hikers a challenge. The views from the summit are more than worth it, but hikers need to be prepared before they start the trail. There is no water available once you start the ascent, so it is important to bring plenty of water and snacks.

Monte Cristo

The Monte Cristo via Cardiff Pass Trail is one of the most popular trails in Utah. It is a beautiful trail that takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in the state. The trailhead is located at the top of Cardiff Pass, which is about an hour's drive from Salt Lake City. The trail is about four miles long, and it takes you through a variety of different landscapes. You will see forests, meadows, and even some desert terrain. The views from the trail are incredible, and you will want to take plenty of pictures. The hike itself is not too difficult, but there are a few areas where you will need to use your hands to climb up or down rocks. Overall, the Monte Cristo via Cardiff Pass Trail is an amazing hike that is definitely worth checking out if you are ever in Utah.

If you are looking for an amazing hiking experience, you need to check out the Monte Cristo via Cardiff Pass Trail. This trail will take you through some of the most stunning scenery in Utah. The views from the trail are incredible, and you will want to take plenty of pictures. The hike itself is not too difficult, but there are a few areas where you will need to use your hands to climb up or down rocks.

Diamond Fork Hot Springs

The Diamond Fork Hot Springs Trail is located in Springville, Utah. The trailhead is located at the end of Diamond Fork Road, just before the road turns to dirt. The trail is a short and easy hike with several hot springs along the way. There are also some great views of the surrounding mountains. The hot springs are open to the public, and there is no fee to use them. However, please be respectful of other visitors and do not leave any trash behind. Dogs are allowed on the trail but must be kept on a leash at all times.

The trail offers a great opportunity to experience the hot springs in a natural setting. The water is crystal clear, and there are plenty of rocks to relax on. The hike is moderate in difficulty and can be done in about an hour.

Diamond Fork Hot Springs Trail is worth checking out if you're looking for a relaxing afternoon! Be sure to bring your bathing suit and some snacks, as you're sure to work up an appetite after a dip in the springs.

The Highline Trail

The Highline Trail is located in the Uinta Mountains in Utah. It is a popular trail for hikers, backpackers, and horseback riders. The trailhead is located at the junction of Highway 150 and Highway 40. The trail winds its way through alpine meadows and forests and eventually reaches 12,000 feet in elevation at Kings Peak, the highest point in Utah. Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to view wildlife, including elk, deer, moose, bears, and eagles. The trail can be hiked from late June through September.

The trail is well marked and easy to follow. There are plenty of places to camp along the way, as well as water sources. The views from the trail are incredible, especially at sunrise and sunset.

If you want to extend your hike, several options for side trails are available. One popular option is to take the Red Castle Lake trail that branches off from the main trail at mile marker 12. This adds four miles to the hike, but it is well worth it as Red Castle Lake is a beautiful alpine lake with great fishing. Another option is to continue to Yellowstone National Park after reaching Kings Peak. This will add 30 miles to the hike, but again, the views are incredible, and it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The Kannara Creek

The Kannara Creek Canyon Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in Kannaraville, Utah. The trailhead is located just off Highway 89, and the trail winds its way through the canyon for about two miles before reaching the creek. The trail then follows the creek for another mile before ending at a small waterfall.

The hike is considered moderate in difficulty, and it takes most people about four hours to complete the entire trail. However, the scenery along the way is well worth the effort, and there are plenty of opportunities to take photographs or just enjoy the peace and quiet of nature.

If you're looking for a moderately challenging hike that will reward you with some incredible views, then be sure to check out the Kannara Creek Canyon Trail.

The Frary Peak Trail

The Frary Peak Trail on Antelope Island is one of Utah's best places to go hiking. It offers up stunning views of both the Great Salt Lake and the surrounding mountains. The trail is also well-marked and easy to follow, even for those who are new to hiking. There are a few steep sections along the way, but nothing that most people couldn't handle with ease. Plus, the scenery is more than worth the effort.

The trailhead for the Frary Peak Trail is located at the south end of Antelope Island State Park. Take I-15 north to Exit 372 for Layton/ Syracuse to get there. From there, follow UT-108 west for about 12 miles until you reach the causeway that leads to Antelope Island. The entrance fee is $15 per vehicle, and the park is open year-round from dawn until dusk. Once you're on the island, simply follow the signs to the Frary Peak Trailhead.

The Frary Peak Trail is a popular one, so it's best to go early to avoid the crowds. You can start your hike around sunrise when the air is still cool, and the views are simply breathtaking. If you decide to hike later in the day, just be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen.

 

About THE AUTHOR

Peter Brooks

Peter Brooks

I’m a hiker, backpacker, and general outdoor enthusiast. I started hiking out of college while working for the National Forest Service, and have been hiking ever since. I’ve been solo hiking and leading hiking groups for two decades and have completed hundreds of small hikes and some majorones such as the Appalachian Train and the Pacific Crest Trail, and hiked on four continents. I’d love to share some of my insight with you.

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