Something magical happens in Utah when summertime comes around.
The earth wakes up, wildlife emerges from their winter homes, and wildflowers bloom in endless colors across the landscape.
The allure of Utah’s breathtaking landscapes, especially this time of year, attracts locals and tourists alike. From towering snow-capped peaks to pristine alpine lakes, our state offers a wealth of summer hiking opportunities that cater to adventurers of all skill levels.
In this blog post, we’ve curated a list of the top hikes in Utah, specifically around the Wasatch Mountains area, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker seeking a challenging trek or a family looking for a scenic stroll, we’ve got you covered.
So, grab your water bottle, lace up those trusty hiking boots, and let’s dive into our roundup of the best hikes in Utah, complete with insider tips, maps, and everything you need to know to make the most of your outdoor adventures this summer.
Cecret Lake Trail
Trail Highlights
- Length: 1.8 miles (out and back)
- Elevation Gain: 465 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- No dogs allowed
- Entry Fee: $10 (paid at the toll booth)
- Best Season: May to October
Located in the heart of the Albion Basin in Little Cottonwood Canyon, the Cecret Lake Trail is a fantastic option for families and hikers looking for a more casual option.
This 1.8-mile out-and-back trail starts at around 9,000 feet of elevation and takes you through a lush evergreen forest, offering glimpses of wildflowers and the occasional wildlife sighting.
But don’t worry, this trail has less than 500 feet of elevation gain, making it the most accessible and casual hike on this list.
Upon reaching Cecret Lake, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding peaks.
One of the best things about this popular hike is its accessibility. The trailhead is conveniently located right by the Albion Basin Campground, making it an ideal day trip from Salt Lake City. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can continue hiking up to Sugarloaf Peak for even more amazing views.
Pro Tips:
- Due to limited parking, it’s highly recommended that you park at the Albion base area and hike the Upper Albion Meadows Trail to the Cecret Lake trailhead.
- Bring mosquito repellent, as the area can be buggy during certain times of the year.
- Keep an eye out for wildlife, including the occasional moose that strolls the area!
- Consider packing a lightweight jacket, as temperatures can vary significantly at higher elevations.
Lake Catherine via Catherine Pass Trail
Trail Highlights
- Length: 3.9 miles (out and back)
- Elevation Gain: 1,115 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- No dogs allowed
- Entry Fee: $10 (paid at the toll booth)
- Best Season: June to October
If you’re looking for a good hike that combines stunning alpine scenery with a moderate challenge, the Lake Catherine via Catherine Pass Trail is a must-do.
This hike offers a variety of options for outdoor enthusiasts, including fishing and mountain biking (on designated trails). As you ascend, take in the fantastic views of the surrounding peaks and keep an eye out for wildlife and the Utah wildflowers that litter all along the trail.
As you descend from the pass, you’ll come across Lake Catherine, a serene alpine body of water located in the heart of Big Cottonwood Canyon. This is the perfect spot to take a break, enjoy a picnic lunch, and soak in the natural beauty.
Pro Tips:
- This trail is incredibly popular, so arrive early to secure a spot in the trailhead parking lot, especially on weekends.
- Pack a lightweight jacket, as weather conditions can change quickly in the mountains.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks to fuel your outdoor adventure.
- Keep an eye out for wildflowers in bloom during the summer months!
Red Pine Lake and Gloria Falls
Trail Highlights
- Length: 7.7 miles (out and back)
- Elevation Gain: 2,188 feet
- Difficulty: Hard
- No dogs allowed
- Entry fee: Various entry pass options
- Best Season: April to November
If you’re an avid hiker seeking a challenging yet rewarding hike, the Red Pine Lake and Gloria Falls trail is calling your name.
This 7.7-mile out-and-back trail in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest is a true test of endurance, but the payoff is well worth the effort.
As you navigate the rugged terrain, you’ll be treated to stunning vistas of towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and lush meadows bursting with wildflowers. The highlight of this hike is undoubtedly the breathtaking Red Pine Lake, a pristine alpine lake surrounded by towering cliffs.
Along the way, you’ll also have the chance to take a side trip to Gloria Falls. This powerful waterfall cascades down the mountainside, making it a worthwhile side quest on your hike!
Insider Tips:
- Bring trekking poles, as the trail can be steep and rocky in certain sections.
- Pack mosquito repellent.
- Be prepared for potential snow cover in the higher elevations, even during the summer months.
- Consider camping overnight to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of this area.
Twin Lakes Pass Trail via Davenport Hill
Trail Highlights
- Length: 5.2 miles (out and back)
- Elevation Gain: 1,807 feet
- Difficulty: Hard
- No dogs allowed
- Entry Fee: $5
- Best Season: June to October
Prepare to be challenged and rewarded on the Twin Lakes Pass Trail via Davenport Hill.
This 5.2-mile out-and-back trail near Sandy, Utah, is a challenging route that will test your endurance and determination. The initial climb is a rocky, steady incline with little shade, but the stunning meadows and streams that await at the top make it all worthwhile.
This trail used to be an old mining road, so as you ascend, keep an eye out for the remnants of an old mine and building foundations.
Once you crest the final hill, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views of the lakes and surrounding peaks.
Insider Tips:
- Pack plenty of water and sun protection, as there is very little shade along the trail.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots with good traction to navigate the rocky terrain.
- Consider packing a lightweight jacket, as temperatures can drop significantly at higher elevations.
- Keep an eye out for wildlife, including marmots and mountain goats!
Monte Cristo via Cardiff Pass Trail
Trail Highlights
- Length: 5.3 miles (out and back)
- Elevation Gain: 2,650 feet
- Difficulty: Hard
- No dogs allowed
- No entry fee required
- Best Season: June to September
As one of the most challenging hikes on our list, the Monte Cristo trail is a must-do for more avid and experienced hikers.
The trail starts with a steady incline through a lush forest, but the terrain becomes more rugged and exposed as you gain elevation. You’ll navigate rocky scrambles and traverse along narrow ridgelines, all while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
The highlight of this beautiful hike is undoubtedly the summit of Monte Cristo Peak, where you’ll be treated to a 360-degree panorama of the Wasatch Range and the Salt Lake Valley below.
Insider Tips:
- This trail is challenging, so make sure you have some hiking experience before taking it on.
- This trail crosses potential avalanche terrain. Always check the daily avalanche forecast before setting out.
- Be prepared for snow and ice at higher elevations, even during the summer months.
- There are sections of rock scrambling, so pack accordingly.
Prince of Wales Mine Trail
Trail Highlights
- Length: 4.2 miles (out and back)
- Elevation Gain: 1,381 feet
- Difficulty: Challenging
- No dogs allowed
- No entry fee required
- Best Season: June to October
The Prince of Wales Mine hiking trail offers stunning views of Little Cottonwood Canyon and the Alta ski resort. As you hike, you’ll enjoy vistas leading up to the Silver Fork Trail, which also provides glimpses of Brighton and Big Cottonwood Canyon.
The trail is notable for its historical significance, featuring the abandoned Prince of Wales mine shaft and old mining equipment but it’s also a great place to see the wildflowers.
Following the Michigan City dirt road, the trail veers up the mountain about 1.3 miles in. Most of the path is smooth, making for an enjoyable hike, though there are some occasional steep and uneven sections. Hikers will find several opportunities to branch off from the main trail to take in different views of the canyon or to explore unique rock formations.
Insider Tips:
- Both vertical shafts of the mine are grated over with steel, but you’ll still want to be careful if you intend to bring children along for this hike.
- You can get great views of Honeycomb Canyon with a small 100-yard detour near the Prince of Wales Mine.
Other Popular Hikes in Southern Utah
Arches National Park
Arches National Park is home to a variety of breathtaking hikes, offering views of unique rock formations and stunning landscapes. Here are some notable trails to explore:
- Delicate Arch: This iconic hike in Arches National Park is a 3-mile round trip and moderately strenuous. It offers stunning views of Delicate Arch, one of the park’s most famous landmarks.
- Devils Garden: Ranging from easy to strenuous, this trail can be tailored to different lengths (0.2 to 7.2 miles). Highlights include Landscape Arch and Double O Arch.
Zion National Park
Zion National Park features a range of hikes that showcase its towering cliffs, narrow canyons, and lush landscapes. Some of the top trails include:
- Angels Landing: This strenuous 5.4-mile round-trip hike is famous for its steep, narrow sections and breathtaking views of Zion Canyon.
- Emerald Pools: Ranging from 1.2 to 3 miles, these trails lead to beautiful pools and waterfalls.
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park offers hikes that take you through its distinctive, otherworldly landscape of hoodoos and natural amphitheaters. Some must-see trails include:
- Navajo Loop Trail: A moderate 1.3-mile loop that takes you through the stunning Bryce Amphitheater.
- Queen’s Garden Trail: The easiest trail descending into the canyon, about 1.8 miles round trip.
Make Alta Chalets Your Homebase for Utah Hiking
As you can see, Utah’s hiking trails offer a diverse range of experiences, from family-friendly strolls to challenging scrambles. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape or an adrenaline-fueled adventure, there’s something for everyone!
As a family-run business with over 30 years of experience in the heart of the Wasatch Mountains, we at Alta Chalets are passionate about sharing our love for the great outdoors with our guests. We take pride in offering exclusive vacation rental properties, ensuring you have a comfortable and convenient home base to return to after a day on the trails.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your stay with us today, and let the adventure begin!
Our knowledgeable team is ready to assist you with activity recommendations, transportation arrangements, and any other concierge services you may need to make your Utah hiking experience truly unforgettable.
We can’t wait to welcome you in and share our passion for this incredible region.
Happy trails!
