Best Hikes in Utah

Utah is a hiker’s paradise full of the best trails and views in the world. It’s home to five different national parks and 43 state parks with world-renowned hiking trails. Utah’s diverse landscape is what makes it so unique; from pine trees to high altitude lakes, red rocks, sunshine and snow. Discover the best hikes in Utah below.

Disclaimer: Hike at your own risk.

1. Angel’s Landing

With chains bolted into the cliff to keep you safe and secure, there’s no doubt this hike will test your mental and physical strength. The stunning view from up top is worth every switchback and 1000 foot drop.

Where: Zion’s National Park
Distance: 5 Miles
Difficulty: Strenuous

Photo by Kristina Wagneron Unsplash — Photo by Kristina Wagneron Unsplash

2. Mount Timpanogos

Mount Timpanogos is the highest peak in Utah. This challenging trail features gorgeous wildflowers, as well as wildlife including mountain goats and moose. You can choose to make the trek a long day trip or break it into a multi-day trip. Either way, you won’t be disappointed.

Where: Alpine, Utah
Distance: 12.8 Miles
Difficulty: Strenuous

3. Delicate Arch

Have you ever seen the ginormous red arch on a Utah license plate? That, my friend, is Delicate Arch. The short hike to the arch will leave you in awe. The arch is so much bigger than any picture depicts. It highlights Mother Nature at her finest.

Where: Arches National Park
Distance: 3 Miles
Difficulty: Easy - Moderate

Photo by Tom Gainoron Unsplash — Photo by Tom Gainoron Unsplash

4. The Narrows

The Narrows is the the most narrow section of Zion’s National Park, shocker right? It’s one of the world’s best slot canyon hikes. You can hike as far in as you’d like and turn back at any time. The trail is basically the Virgin River, which makes it particularly nice on a hot summer day. Plan on getting wet and make sure to watch the weather for flash floods.

Where: Zions National Park
Distance: Varies
Difficulty: Moderate

5. Fairyland Loop

Have you always wanted to hike through hoodoo rocks? Well, I bet you do now! Look no further than Fairyland Loop at Bryce National Park to find some of the world’s most unique rock formations. You’ll enjoy spectacular scenery as you hike eight miles on the rim of the canyon.

Where: Bryce National Park
Distance: 8 Miles
Difficulty: Strenuous

6. Dead Horse Rim Trail

This trail is located high on the Rim of the Colorado River Canyon. It has some of the best views near Moab, Utah without the crowds of the National Parks. It is the recipe for a great day of hiking with easy and fun trails, small crowds and a jaw-dropping view,

Where: Dead Horse Point State Park
Distance: 5 Miles
Difficulty: Moderate

Photo by Ken Cheungon Unsplash — Photo by Ken Cheungon Unsplash

7. Coyote Gulch

Coyote Gulch is found in the Grand Staircase Escalante Desert. It is a narrow, winding canyon that goes through red rock and meets up with the Escalante river. It is a fun trail for an overnighter with arches and wetlands throughout the trek.

Where: Grand Staircase Escalante Desert
Distance: 11.5 Miles
Difficulty: Strenuous

7. Diamond Fork Hot Springs

You’ll find this hidden gem in northern Utah. You you can hike 4.5 miles, soak in hot springs, enjoy waterfalls and spot the occasional wildlife. The clear blue springs will leave you feeling relaxed, refreshed and in awe at the beautiful world we live in.

Where: Diamond Fork Canyon
Distance: 4.5 Miles
Difficulty: Easy - Moderate

8. Cecret Lake

The wildflowers at Cecret Lake are breathtaking and the moose families are adorable! Take the whole family and catch a beautiful sunset on the way down. It’s best to hike it from May to September.

Where: Albion Basin
Distance: 4.8 Miles
Difficulty: Easy - Moderate

Photo by Forrest Smithon Unsplash — Photo by Forrest Smithon Unsplash

9. Kanaraville Falls

Kanaraville Falls is a fun hike to when it’s hot outside. The trail is very green with trees, plants and reeds. With waterfalls and a swimming hole in the middle, it’s a must-hike if you are ever in the Saint George area.

Where: Kanaraville, Utah
Distance: 4.8 Miles
Difficulty: Moderate