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Top trails in utah - mapped!

Top 20 trails in utah
- northern utah map -

Northern Utah is a paradise for hikers, mountain bikers, and trail runners—offering everything from peaceful forest strolls to thrilling peak summits.

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or new explorer, this list of the 20 top hiking trails in Northern Utah (with a Southern Utah edition coming soon) will satisfy your craving for outdoor adventure.

Top Trails in Utah

  1. Big Water Trail to Dog Lake: Starting in Millcreek Canyon, this trail is a favorite among dog owners and mountain bikers. The trail is accessible, making it perfect for adaptive riders. Enjoy a peaceful trek through pine forests to the serene Dog Lake.
  2. Parley’s Pointe Trail: This trail offers spectacular views of Parley’s Canyon. It’s a moderate hike with a steady incline, perfect for a morning or afternoon outing.
  3. Ferguson Canyon: Known for its rugged beauty and challenging rock scrambles, Ferguson Canyon is ideal for those seeking a bit of adventure. The views of the Salt Lake Valley are worth the effort.
  4. Pipeline Trail: Running parallel to Millcreek Canyon Road, this trail provides excellent views of the canyon and is a popular spot for both hiking and biking.
  5. Red Pine Lake Trail: A challenging hike in the Little Cottonwood Canyon, Red Pine Lake Trail takes you through beautiful alpine scenery to the stunning Red Pine Lake. It’s perfect for those looking for a full-day adventure.
Parley's Pointe Trail in Utah
  1. Grandeur Peak (face) Trail: This trail is a steep and challenging route to the summit of Grandeur Peak, offering panoramic views of the Salt Lake Valley and beyond. It’s a favorite for those looking to test their endurance.
  2. Mormon Pioneer Trail: Rich in history, this trail follows the path of the original Mormon pioneers. It’s a moderate hike with several reroutes and grade reversals to make it more accessible and enjoyable.
  1. Silver Lake Loop: A family-friendly trail at the top of Big Cottonwood Canyon, the Silver Lake Loop offers an easy, scenic walk around Silver Lake, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing.
  2. Lake Blanche: This is a strenuous but rewarding hike up Big Cottonwood Canyon. The trail leads to Lake Blanche, nestled in a beautiful alpine basin with dramatic views of Sundial Peak.

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more fantastic Trails in Northern Utah

  1. Bells Canyon: Starting at the mouth of Little Cottonwood Canyon, Bells Canyon trail offers a challenging hike with beautiful waterfalls and a picturesque reservoir.
  2. Gloria Falls: A lesser-known gem in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Gloria Falls offers a short but rewarding hike to a beautiful waterfall.
  3. Lake Mary: Located near the top of Big Cottonwood Canyon, this trail takes you to the serene Lake Mary, perfect for a peaceful escape into nature.
  4. Mueller Park: This trail in Bountiful is popular for its lush scenery and moderate incline, making it a great option for a leisurely hike with beautiful views.
  5. Mount Timpanogos: One of the most popular hikes in Utah, Mount Timpanogos offers a challenging but incredibly rewarding trek with stunning views and the possibility of spotting mountain goats.
  6. Living Room: Named for its unique rock formations that resemble chairs, this hike offers a quick escape from the city with fantastic views of Salt Lake City.
  1. Donut Falls: A short, family-friendly hike in Big Cottonwood Canyon, Donut Falls leads to a unique waterfall that pours through a hole in the rock.
  2. Wind Cave: Located in Logan Canyon, this trail takes you to a series of natural limestone caves with beautiful views of the surrounding canyon.
Red Pine Lake Trail in Utah
  1. Adams Canyon: A popular trail in Layton, Adams Canyon features a beautiful 40-foot waterfall and offers a moderate hike through shaded forest.
  2. 29th Street: This trailhead in Ogden offers access to several great hiking trails, including Waterfall Canyon and Malan’s Peak, providing stunning views and a range of difficulties.
  3. Deseret Peak: Located in the Stansbury Mountains, Deseret Peak offers a challenging hike with breathtaking views from the summit. It’s a great option for those looking to get off the beaten path.

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