Best Hikes In Utah - Which One Is Your Favorite?
Utah, the US state marked by the vast desert and majestic mountains, is a little slice of paradise for adventure lovers. From some of the top hikes in Zion National Park to the lesser-known trails around Escalante Grand-Staircase National Monument, Utah has everything! You might have heard about the famous Delicate Arch and Mesa Arch. You will definitely love the Kanarra Creek Falls and Mirror Lake Trail. Want to know what the best hikes in Utah for the outdoor-enthusiasts are? Read on and you will find the detailed list of wonderful hiking places in Utah where you can experience the charm of rugged lands.
1. Delicate Arch, Arches National Park
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The majestic 60-foot tall Delicate Arch is among the most popular and picturesque points in Arches National Park. It is definitely one of the best hikes in Utah as the trail is well-marked and easy to explore. The best time to visit Delicate Arch is said to be during spring and fall. But, you can hike here throughout the year. Go just before the sunset, and you will get to see the beautiful colors these rocks carry.
Total distance - 3 miles
Estimated time - 2-3 hours
Difficulty level - Easy
2. The Subway, Zion National Park
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
There are 2 ways to explore the Subway and both are equally difficult. You can opt for the ‘from the bottom up’ as it is comparatively easy. If you choose ‘from the top down’, remember that you will have to swim through different pools and go grappling as well. It is considered to be the best Zion National Park hikes by many. But, it is also the hardest one. You will require a permit and need someone experienced to guide you.
Total distance - 9 miles
Estimated time - More than 8 hours
Difficulty level - Hard
Also Read - 5 Mighty National Parks In Utah
3. Entrada Canyon Trail, Goblin Valley
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One of the lesser-known hiking places in Utah, Entrada Canyon Trail introduces you to the beauty of Goblin Valley. Winding through the red mounds, this canyon is ideal for hikers with different skill levels. But, keep in mind that the whole area is not marked with signs and there are some turns that may take you off the track. So, keep the map handy and stick to the well-beaten path.
Total distance - 2.4 miles
Estimated time - 3 hours
Difficulty level - Moderate
4. Fairyland Loop Trail, Bryce Canyon National Park
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When it comes to exploring interesting hoodoo and spires formations in Bryce National Park, you must start with the Fairyland Loop Trail. Finding its way through these geological features, you will get the experience the rugged, scenic landscape at its best. Though there are several Utah hiking trails around here, this one is good for amateurs as well. Do not forget to carry plenty of water and sunscreen.
Total distance - 8 miles
Estimated time - 3 hours
Difficulty level - Moderate
5. Butler Fork Trail, Mount Raymond
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Hiking to the rocky peak of Mount Raymond is an enthralling experience. From the dense woods to Cottonwood Canyon and from rock climbing to leisurely hiking, Butler Fork Trail will give you a chance to do it all. It has become one of the popular day hikes in Utah over the years. But, it is not recommended to hike during winters. The danger of avalanches is higher and snowy landscapes make it hard to find a way through the rocky terrain.
Total distance - 7.2 miles
Estimated time - 5 to 6 hours
Difficulty level - Hard
6. Timpanogos Cave National Monument
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Timpanogos Cave National Monument is a group of 3 caves nestled in the Mount Timpanogos. A strenuous yet well-paved trail will lead you to this cave system. Open usually from May to September, you will have to take the guided tour of this monument. So, if you are looking for places to hike in Utah, this one should be on the top of your list. Carry a light jacket and you are good to go!
Total distance - 3 miles
Estimated time - 4 hours including a tour of caves
Difficulty level - Moderate
Also Read - Best Islands of Utah To Visit
7. Mesa Arch, Canyonlands National Park
Image Source: Wikipedia.org
Canyonlands National Park is marked by the wonderful Mesa Arch. An easy hike leads to this arch that has become one of the most popular landmarks in Utah. No doubt it is amongst the most photographed and well-known Utah hiking trips! Try to visit this place at sunrise when the delicate sun rays reflect charmingly from the rocks and the golden-red glow looks as if the whole arch is on fire.
Total distance - 1 mile
Estimated time - 1 hour
Difficulty level - Easy
8. Coyote Gulch, Escalante Grand-Staircase National Monument 0000
Image Source: Flickr.com
The lazy serpentine canyon of Coyote Gulch defines the mostly deserted land of Escalante Grand-Staircase National Monument. This remote area has transformed into a paradise for adventure enthusiasts. It is one of the best places to hike in Utah as it finds a way through red rocks, natural arches, and stunning bridge formations. You can complete this hike in a day, but it is recommended to make it a multi-day trip to have a wholesome experience.
Total distance - 11.5 miles
Estimated time - 2 days
Difficulty level - Hard
9. Kanarra Creek Falls
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
When it comes to some of the best hikes in southern Utah, Kanarra Creek Falls steals the spotlight. The land covered in vibrant colors and water that carry striking shades of blue make for a sight-to-behold. You need to do this hike with someone experienced as you will have to cross two waterfalls to complete the trail. Do not forget to check the weather forecast as the looming danger of flash floods is constant in this area.
Total distance - 3.5 miles
Estimated time - 5 hours
Difficulty level - Moderate
10. Buckskin Gulch Trail
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Buckskin Gulch, being the longest and deepest slot canyon, offers some exciting outdoor recreational activities. The landscapes look magical in every possible way and hold stunning vistas. But, while planning this hiking trip in Utah, you will have to consider the risk of flash flooding in this area. The best time to visit Buckskin Gulch is from April to June and from September to November. During these months, camping here is a bliss.
Total distance - around 25 miles
Estimated time - 2 days
Difficulty level - Hard
11. Mirror Lake Trail, Uinta Mountains
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Though the Uinta Mountains has more than 70-mile-long hiking trails, the path to the famous Mirror Lake is easy and postcard-perfect. The lake and its shores offer a number of activities including fishing, boating, hiking, and camping. One of the family-friendly hiking trails in Utah, this place is perfect to spend some time in the heart of nature.
Total distance - 2.8 miles
Estimated time - 3 hours
Difficulty level - Easy
12. Pfeifferhorn Ridge, Wasatch Mountains
Image Source: Wikipedia.org
Take the Red Pine Lakes Trail to cover the well-known yet peaceful area of Pfeifferhorn Ridge and you will find yourself amidst the rugged mountainous area. With a combination of easy hiking and moderate scrambling, this is surely one of the top hikes in Utah. This trail is mostly not crowded and is a perfect one when you want to get away from all the hustle and bustle.
Total distance - 9 miles
Estimated time - 6 hours
Difficulty level - Moderate
Follow this ultimate guide for adventure lovers and experience Utah hiking at its best!
