Best Utah Hiking

Utah has some amazing hiking trails. From the red rock cliffs of Zion National Park to the beautiful lakes of Bryce Canyon, Utah offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. If you want to get out into nature, these are the top hikes in Utah.

Utah is home to some of the country’s most stunning natural wonders. The state boasts over 300 miles of hiking trails, from short strolls along the shores of Lake Powell to challenging treks through the rugged backcountry.

Utah is known for its breathtaking scenery, but it also has a rich history. In addition to being home to the famous national parks, Utah is also the birthplace of Mormonism and the headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

The following list features 10 of the best hiking trails in Utah. These hikes range in length from 1 mile to 16 miles and cover everything from easy day trips to multi-day adventures. All of them offer incredible views of the surrounding landscape.

1. Red Rock Cliffs Trail – Zion National Park

Zion National Park is one of the largest national parks in the United States, and it’s not hard to see why. This park is filled with towering sandstone monoliths that reach up to 2,000 feet above sea level.

There are more than 100 different species of plants and animals living within the park, including bighorn sheep, black bears, mountain lions, elk, mule deer, eagles, falcons, hawks, owls, foxes, coyotes, bobcats, and even rattlesnakes.

Hikers can choose between two main trail options. The first option takes hikers past colorful canyon walls and across scenic riverbeds. The second option leads hikers to the base of the iconic Angels Landing.

2. Cedar Breaks National Monument

This hike begins at the end of Highway 901, which runs parallel to Interstate 15. It then continues on paved roads for about 3 miles before reaching the monument entrance.

Cedar Breaks was established as a national monument in 1996 by President Bill Clinton. It covers an area of nearly 6,500 acres and includes the tallest cliff face in North America. Due to the steepness of the terrain, this hike is only recommended for experienced hikers who have good balance and strength.

3. Paria Plateau Loop Trail – Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is located near Escalante, UT. This national monument protects more than 5 million acres of land, making it one of the largest protected areas in the U.S.

This hike is perfect if you love exploring ancient ruins. It travels through the heart of the monument and passes by many historic sites, such as the Rainbow Bridge, where Native Americans crossed the Colorado River.

4. Natural Bridges National Monument

Natural Bridges National Monument is located in southeastern Utah. It was designated a national monument in 1994 by President Bill Clinton.

Natural bridges are unique geological formations created when sediments erode away around a cave or underground stream leaving behind a circular opening.

5. Navajo Waterfall Trail – Kaibab National Forest

Kaibab National Forest is located in northern Arizona and southern Utah. This forest contains several waterfalls, including the world’s highest free-falling waterfall. This huge forest has a range of hiking trails ranging from easy to more of a climb for those looking for a challenge.

This trail is filled with a rich history. In fact, there are multiple historical trails. This includes a trail that follows an old Navajo sheep herding path.

6. Kachina Point Overlook Trail – Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands National Park is located in southeastern Utah and the westernmost portion of the state of Colorado. This national park preserves the region’s geologic history.

Kachina Bridge is the highlight of the overlook trail. At 44-feet wide, this bridge has the widest girth of any bridge in the park. It also features the longest span of any bridge in the national park.

7. Painted Desert Trail – Petrified Dunes State Park

Petrified dunes are large sand sheets made up of sedimentary rock that turned into stone millions of years ago.

The petrified dunes at Petrified Dunes State park are some of the most impressive in all of Utah. These dunes cover approximately 1,200 acres.

8. Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is located in southwestern Utah. This national park is known for its beautiful vistas and colorful cliffs.

There are several hikes that take visitors to the rim of the canyon. One popular hike is the Rim Trail. The trail is about seven miles long and takes visitors past hoodoos (large spires) and other natural wonders. The park preserves a vast landscape of red rock canyons, plateaus, mesas, buttes, and arches.

9. Zion Narrows Trail – Zion National Park

Zion National Park is located in southwest Utah. This national park offers visitors scenic views of the Virgin River and Kolob Canyons.

There are several trails in the park that offer different experiences. The Narrows Trail is a moderate hike that leads to the narrowest part of the river.

10. Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef National Park is located in central Utah. This national park preserves an area of land that is home to ancient cliff dwellings and ruins.

The park has many trails that lead to these sites. Some of the best include the Fairyland Loop Trail, which takes hikers through a variety of ecosystems. Another popular trail is the Indian Creek Trail.

11. Arches National Park

Arches National Park is located in northwestern Utah. This national park protects a series of natural arches.

Hikers can explore the park on foot or on horseback. There are over two dozen trails in the park that allow visitors to see the amazing rock structures.

Final Thoughts

Utah is home to some amazing hiking trails. Each trail has something unique to offer. Whether you want to relax or get your heart rate up, each trail will provide you with what you need. So whether you want to brave it alone, or take the whole family, these trails are not to be missed.