Utah is home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in all of America. The state has everything from desert hikes to mountainous treks, and everything in between. Utah’s national parks have some of the best and most iconic hiking trails anywhere. From Angels Landing at Zion National Park to Burro Pass on Cedar Mesa, there are many hikes you can take in Utah that will leave you feeling like you’re on top of the world—or at least high above it!
The Narrows at Zion National Park
- The Narrows is a popular hike in Zion National Park that follows the Virgin River through a slot canyon, allowing you to hike right along the river.
- You’ll be able to see wildlife such as bighorn sheep and mule deer, but be aware that this area can be dangerous if you’re not prepared! If you decide to go on this hike, make sure you bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as well as other essentials such as bear spray (if camping overnight), flashlights or headlamps for hiking at night, and extra layers just in case it gets cold!
Angels Landing Trail at Zion National Park
The Angels Landing Trail is the most famous hike in Zion National Park, and for good reason. The trail’s views of the park are quintessential Utah and a highlight of any trip there. It begins at Springdale, where you can pick up your permit and gear at one of several locations before parking at the Grotto Shuttle Stop located along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. You’ll then climb 2 miles up switchbacks until you reach Refrigerator Canyon—a cool place to rest as you prepare yourself for the final push onto Angel’s Landing itself (a narrow, steep block of sandstone attached to the top rim).
Once atop, exciting adventures await: eye-popping scenery; dizzying drop-offs; extreme hiking paths along narrow ledges with no guardrails; steep drops into deep ravines below; loose rock underfoot that can shift unexpectedly on wet days or when stepped on by hikers above you—and don’t forget about those sudden gusts of wind!
It may not seem like it now but once upon a time humans were terrified by these natural phenomena so much so that they developed rituals designed specifically for addressing such fears–in particular what was known as “anxiety attack” which involved invoking spirits through ritualistic dances performed within sacred sites like caves or grottos found throughout Europe during Bronze Age times (3rd millennium BC). These rituals were believed necessary because failure meant death from falling off mountains during hunting expeditions due to being struck down by an evil spirit who wanted revenge against humans’ trespassing into his domain–something that would cause serious problems if left unresolved because these spirits could easily turn against everyone else too if not properly appeased first!
Hidden Canyon Trail at Zion National Park
The Hidden Canyon Trail at Zion National Park is an excellent hike for those looking to get in touch with nature and challenge themselves. With a moderate difficulty level and a short distance, this trail is perfect for families or groups of friends looking to spend some time exploring the outdoors.
The trail begins at the Hidden Canyon Trailhead in Springdale, Utah where it quickly ascends through trees and into a canyon. After about half a mile, hikers will reach their first junction point where they can choose whether they want to continue up into Hidden Canyon (recommended) or backtrack down towards the entrance of Zion National Park. If you decide not to go into Hidden Canyon on your trip today, keep in mind that there are several other hikes accessible from this same parking lot!
Observation Point Trail at Zion National Park
You’ll find Observation Point Trail at the end of the Narrows trail, about 3 miles from the last shuttle stop. It’s a strenuous and steep trail—1 mile long with 1,000 feet of elevation gain—but it’s worth it!
It’s a great place to watch the sunset, because you get to see multiple sides of Zion Canyon before darkness falls on this hike. Once you reach the top of Observation Point, you’re rewarded with one of the most spectacular views in all of Utah: You can see Zion Canyon from every angle!
This is a great hike for children who are good at hiking uphill because they will have to climb stairs while carrying their own gear (there are no handrails). If your child has never done anything like this before or needs encouragement to try it out, encourage them and let them know how proud you are that they are willing to try something new!
Steps to the Fire Falls Trail in Kolob Terrace
The Fire Falls trail is 11 miles long, and it’s rated as difficult. The trail is open from May to October, and it passes through the Kolob Terrace section of Zion National Park. It’s named for Fire Falls—a waterfall that runs red near sunset because of the iron deposits in its rocks.
The hike begins at the West Rim Trailhead at Lava Point, which can be reached by taking a shuttle or driving yourself to this parking lot on Kolob Terrace Road (which will require about 30 minutes). You’ll start off on a paved road that leads up to your first views of the amazing canyon below you: there are no words for how breathtaking these views are.
Next comes an uphill climb on switchbacks with stairs and railings that provide some much-needed stability while climbing up 1120 feet over 2 miles—fun fact: that’s double what Half Dome’s elevation gain is! This steep climb takes you through groves of junipers before reaching a plateau called Inspiration Point where your hard work pays off with some unobstructed views.
Once you’ve gotten your fill along this stretch, it’s time to turn left onto a dirt path where you’ll begin descending into Zion Canyon itself; this part involves more switchbacks down into Refrigerator Canyon until finally reaching Grotto Amphitheater where hikers can rest their sore legs before continuing on their journey back toward Lava Point via another set of steep switchbacks (you remember those from earlier?).
Three Tetons trail in Grand Teton National Park
The Three Tetons trail is located in Grand Teton National Park and is 6.5 miles long. It’s rated as moderate, with a lot of switchbacks and elevation gain/loss. The trail is also dog-friendly and makes for a great loop hike if you’re looking to put in some miles. The best part about this hike are the views of the Tetons themselves: from your vantage point on top of Signal Mountain, you’ll be able to see all four peaks along with multiple lakes below them!
Overlook trail on the Island in the Sky Mesas of Canyonlands National Park.
The long Overlook trail on the Island in the Sky Mesas of Canyonlands National Park is a great way to see the mesas of Canyonlands, as well as good for all ages and abilities. The trail begins at Salt Creek Point and ends at Grandview Point overlooking White Rim Sandstone formations. There are several points along this hike where you can stop, catch your breath and take in views of the surrounding area.
The overlook trail is not as strenuous as other trails at Canyonlands but still offers beautiful scenery that will leave you wanting more time to explore.
Utah has so many beautiful hiking trails!
Utah has so many beautiful hiking trails! Hiking is a great way to experience nature and get exercise. You can spend time with friends and family by going on a group hike, or go at your own pace by hiking solo. Whether you’re looking for challenging mountains or easier paths through forests, Utah has some of the best hikes in the country.
Hiking can be a great way to explore the natural world. These trails are some of our favorites in Utah and they offer something new for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a short walk or an extended hike, there is no shortage of options in this state!
