Best Utah Hiking Trails: Ultimate Guide for Every Type of Hiker
From towering red rock canyons to otherworldly desert landscapes, Utah offers some of the most spectacular hiking on Earth. Discover the trails that will take your breath away.
Utah isn't just a hiking destination—it's a pilgrimage site for anyone who's ever felt the pull of wild places. This is where the earth cracks open to reveal slot canyons so narrow you can touch both walls, where sandstone arches frame impossibly blue skies, and where trails lead to vistas that make you question whether you're still on the same planet.
With five national parks (known collectively as the "Mighty Five"), countless state parks, and millions of acres of public land, Utah packs more jaw-dropping scenery per square mile than almost anywhere else in America. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker looking for your next multi-day adventure or a family wanting an easy walk to a stunning viewpoint, Utah delivers.
This guide covers everything you need to know about hiking in Utah—from the iconic trails that belong on every hiker's bucket list to hidden gems that offer solitude and wonder. We'll help you choose the right trails for your skill level, plan your visit for optimal conditions, and stay safe in Utah's unique desert environment.
Why Utah Is One of the World's Best Hiking Destinations
Utah's reputation as a hiking paradise isn't hype—it's geology, climate, and accessibility coming together in perfect harmony.
Unmatched Landscape Diversity
Few places on Earth offer such dramatic variety in such a compact area. Within a few hours' drive, you can hike through red rock canyons, alpine forests, desert badlands, and snow-capped peaks. The Colorado Plateau's unique geology has created landscapes found nowhere else—towering hoodoos, massive natural arches, and slot canyons carved by millennia of water and wind.
Year-Round Hiking Opportunities
Utah's varied elevations mean you can hike year-round. When summer heat makes desert trails unbearable, head to the high country. When winter snow blankets the mountains, the southern desert parks offer perfect hiking weather. This flexibility makes Utah ideal for spontaneous trips and last-minute getaways.
World-Class Trail Infrastructure
Utah's national and state parks maintain excellent trail systems with clear signage, regular maintenance, and comprehensive visitor information. Whether you're tackling a challenging backcountry route or taking a family-friendly nature walk, you'll find well-marked trails and helpful resources.
Accessibility from Major Hubs
Salt Lake City's international airport puts you within 3-5 hours of most major trailheads. Las Vegas provides another gateway, especially for southern Utah parks. This accessibility, combined with excellent road infrastructure, makes Utah hiking trips logistically simple compared to more remote wilderness areas.
For more tips on planning outdoor adventures and making the most of your travel time, check out our comprehensive travel tips guide.
Map of Utah's Major Hiking Regions
Southwest Utah (Zion Region)
Dramatic canyons, towering cliffs, and the Virgin River. Home to Angels Landing and The Narrows.
South-Central Utah (Bryce Canyon)
High-elevation hoodoos and amphitheaters. Unique rock formations and pine forests.
Southeast Utah (Moab Area)
Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. Red rock desert and Colorado River canyons.
South-Central Utah (Capitol Reef)
Waterpocket Fold geological wonder. Historic orchards and colorful canyon walls.
Northern Utah (Wasatch Range)
Alpine hiking near Salt Lake City. Mountain peaks, lakes, and wildflower meadows.
Southwest Corner (St. George Area)
Year-round hiking weather. Snow Canyon State Park and desert trails.
Best Utah Hiking Trails (Detailed Guide)
These are the trails that define Utah hiking—each offering something unique, from heart-pounding adventure to serene natural beauty.
Angels Landing
Zion National Park
Trail Highlights: Angels Landing is Utah's most iconic hike—and for good reason. The final half-mile follows a narrow rock fin with 1,000-foot drops on both sides, aided by chain handholds bolted into the rock. The views from the summit are absolutely breathtaking, offering a bird's-eye perspective of Zion Canyon that you won't find anywhere else.
The hike begins with the famous Walter's Wiggles—21 steep switchbacks carved into the cliff face. After reaching Scout Lookout, you'll face the decision: continue to the summit via the exposed ridge, or enjoy the already spectacular views from this safer vantage point.
Safety Notes
This trail is not for those with a fear of heights. Several hikers have died from falls. Avoid in wet, icy, or windy conditions. A seasonal permit system is now required—apply through recreation.gov.
Insider Tips
Start early to avoid crowds and afternoon heat. Bring gloves for gripping the chains. If you don't get a permit, Scout Lookout still offers incredible views and is worth the hike.
Best For: Experienced hikers comfortable with heights seeking an adrenaline-pumping adventure
The Narrows
Zion National Park
Trail Highlights: The Narrows offers one of the most unique hiking experiences in America—you'll spend most of your time wading through the Virgin River as it flows between canyon walls that soar 1,000 feet overhead. In places, the canyon narrows to just 20-30 feet wide, creating a cathedral-like atmosphere as sunlight filters down from above.
The bottom-up route from the Temple of Sinawava is accessible to most hikers. You can turn around at any point, making it perfect for families or those wanting a shorter adventure. The further you go, the more dramatic the scenery becomes, with Wall Street being a particularly stunning section where the canyon walls close in dramatically.
Safety Notes
Flash flood danger is real—check weather forecasts and current conditions before entering. The trail closes when flow rates are too high. Water can be cold (40-50°F in spring), and you'll be wet for hours.
Insider Tips
Rent canyoneering shoes and a walking stick from outfitters in Springdale—they make a huge difference. Waterproof bags protect your gear. Go midweek to avoid crowds. A dry suit is worth it in cooler months.
Best For: Adventurous hikers seeking a unique water-based canyon experience
Delicate Arch Trail
Arches National Park
Trail Highlights: Delicate Arch is Utah's most photographed landmark—the freestanding arch that appears on Utah license plates and countless postcards. The hike to reach it is an adventure across slickrock, offering increasingly dramatic views as you approach. When you finally round the corner and see the arch framing the La Sal Mountains in the distance, it's a moment you'll never forget.
The trail crosses open slickrock with minimal shade, making it challenging in summer heat. But the payoff is worth every step. At sunset, the arch glows orange-red against the darkening sky, creating one of the most iconic scenes in the American Southwest.
Safety Notes
No shade on this trail—bring plenty of water (1+ gallon per person in summer). The slickrock can be slippery when wet. Stay on marked trails to protect fragile cryptobiotic soil.
Insider Tips
Arrive before 8 AM or after 3 PM to avoid crowds and heat. Sunset is magical but requires a headlamp for the return. The Lower Delicate Arch Viewpoint offers a distant view without the hike.
Best For: Hikers wanting to see Utah's most iconic landmark up close
For more destination guides and travel planning resources, explore our comprehensive travel tips.
Best Easy Hikes in Utah
Not every great Utah hike requires extreme fitness or technical skills. These trails offer stunning scenery with minimal difficulty—perfect for families, seniors, or anyone wanting a more relaxed outdoor experience.
Canyon Overlook Trail
Zion National Park
This short trail packs a serious punch, offering one of Zion's best views for minimal effort. The trail follows a ledge carved into the cliff face, ending at a spectacular overlook of Pine Creek Canyon and the East Temple. It's especially beautiful at sunset when the canyon walls glow orange-red.
EasyMesa Arch
Canyonlands National Park
Mesa Arch is famous for sunrise photography—the arch glows brilliant orange as the sun rises behind it. But it's stunning any time of day, framing views of the La Sal Mountains and Washer Woman Arch in the distance. The short, flat trail makes it accessible to almost everyone.
EasyLower Emerald Pool
Zion National Park
A paved trail leads to a waterfall and pool tucked beneath towering cliffs. The trail passes through a hanging garden where water seeps through the sandstone, creating a lush oasis. It's wheelchair accessible and perfect for young children.
EasySunset Point to Sunrise Point
Bryce Canyon National Park
This paved rim trail offers incredible views of Bryce Amphitheater's hoodoos without descending into the canyon. It's mostly flat and accessible, making it perfect for those who want to experience Bryce's beauty without the strenuous climb back out.
EasySand Dune Arch
Arches National Park
A short walk through soft sand leads to an arch tucked between two fins of rock. Kids love playing in the sand beneath the arch, and the shaded location makes it pleasant even in summer. It's one of Arches' most family-friendly trails.
EasyRiverside Walk
Zion National Park
This paved trail follows the Virgin River to the start of The Narrows. Even if you don't plan to wade into the river, the walk itself is beautiful, with hanging gardens, small waterfalls, and towering canyon walls. Wheelchair accessible.
EasyBest Challenging Hikes in Utah
For experienced hikers seeking bucket-list adventures, these trails push your limits while rewarding you with some of Utah's most spectacular and remote scenery.
Buckskin Gulch
Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness
One of the world's longest and deepest slot canyons, Buckskin Gulch is a true wilderness adventure. You'll navigate through sections where the walls tower 500 feet overhead while being only 15 feet apart. Expect obstacles including boulder scrambles, deep pools, and potentially quicksand. This is serious backcountry hiking requiring navigation skills, physical fitness, and proper gear.
The Subway (Bottom-Up)
Zion National Park
The Subway is Zion's most coveted permit hike. The bottom-up route requires swimming through cold pools, rappelling, and technical canyoneering skills. The reward is one of the most photogenic slot canyons in the Southwest—a tube-shaped passage carved by Left Fork North Creek. Only experienced canyoneers should attempt this route.
West Rim Trail
Zion National Park
This epic trail climbs from the canyon floor to the rim, offering constantly changing perspectives of Zion's landscape. The relentless elevation gain tests your endurance, but the views from the rim—looking down on Angels Landing and across the entire canyon—are worth every step. Many hikers do this as a shuttle hike or overnight backpack.
Fairyland Loop
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce's longest and most challenging day hike takes you deep into the hoodoo wonderland with far fewer crowds than the more popular trails. You'll experience the full range of Bryce's landscapes—from rim views to intimate passages between towering rock spires. The elevation changes are significant, and the high altitude adds to the challenge.
Best Hikes by National Park
Zion National Park
Zion's towering sandstone cliffs and narrow canyons create some of the most dramatic hiking in America. The park's trail system ranges from easy riverside walks to heart-pounding cliff-edge adventures.
Top Trails:
- Angels Landing - Iconic chain-assisted ridge hike
- The Narrows - Wade through Virgin River canyon
- Observation Point - Best panoramic views
- Canyon Overlook - Easy with big rewards
Best For:
Dramatic canyon scenery, water-based hikes, and challenging adventures
Peak Season:
March-May and September-November
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce's otherworldly hoodoos create a landscape unlike anywhere else on Earth. The high elevation (8,000-9,000 feet) means cooler temperatures and stunning alpine scenery.
Top Trails:
- Queen's Garden & Navajo Loop - Classic hoodoo experience
- Fairyland Loop - Challenging full-day adventure
- Rim Trail - Easy with spectacular views
- Peek-a-boo Loop - Moderate hoodoo immersion
Best For:
Unique rock formations, cooler summer hiking, and photography
Peak Season:
May-October (snow possible other months)
Arches National Park
Home to over 2,000 natural stone arches, this park offers hiking through surreal desert landscapes where erosion has created geological masterpieces.
Top Trails:
- Delicate Arch - Utah's most iconic landmark
- Devils Garden - Multiple arches in one hike
- Landscape Arch - Longest arch in North America
- Sand Dune Arch - Easy family-friendly option
Best For:
Natural arches, slickrock hiking, and desert landscapes
Peak Season:
March-May and September-November
Canyonlands National Park
Utah's largest national park offers vast, remote wilderness divided into distinct districts, each with its own character and hiking opportunities.
Top Trails:
- Mesa Arch - Iconic sunrise photography spot
- Grand View Point - Expansive canyon vistas
- Chesler Park Loop - Remote Needles District hike
- Upheaval Dome - Mysterious geological feature
Best For:
Solitude, vast desert vistas, and backcountry adventures
Peak Season:
March-May and September-November
Capitol Reef National Park
Often overlooked, Capitol Reef offers incredible hiking through colorful canyons, historic orchards, and along the dramatic Waterpocket Fold.
Top Trails:
- Capitol Gorge Trail - Historic pioneer route
- Cassidy Arch - Moderate arch hike
- Hickman Bridge - Natural bridge with petroglyphs
- Cohab Canyon - Hidden canyon adventure
Best For:
Fewer crowds, colorful geology, and historic sites
Peak Season:
April-October
Best Time to Hike in Utah
Timing is everything when it comes to Utah hiking. The state's diverse elevations and desert climate create distinct seasonal windows for optimal hiking conditions.
Spring (March-May)
Best Overall Season. Moderate temperatures, wildflower blooms, and flowing waterfalls make spring ideal for desert hiking. Zion, Arches, and Canyonlands are perfect during this window.
Summer (June-August)
High Country Season. Desert trails become dangerously hot, but high-elevation areas like Bryce Canyon and the Wasatch Range offer perfect conditions.
Fall (September-November)
Peak Season. Comfortable temperatures return to desert parks, crowds thin out after Labor Day, and fall colors add beauty to high-elevation hikes.
Winter (December-February)
Low Season. Snow closes high-elevation trails, but southern desert parks offer pleasant hiking with minimal crowds. Zion and Snow Canyon are excellent winter destinations.
For more seasonal travel planning tips, check out our guides on best time to travel to Croatia and best time to travel to Spain.
What to Pack for Hiking in Utah
Utah's desert environment requires specific gear and preparation. Here's what you need to stay safe and comfortable on the trail.
Hydration Essentials
- Water: Minimum 1 gallon per person per day (more in summer)
- Hydration system: Bladder or bottles
- Electrolytes: Tablets or powder for long hikes
- Water filter: For backcountry trips
Sun Protection
- Sunscreen: SPF 50+ broad spectrum
- Hat: Wide-brimmed for maximum coverage
- Sunglasses: UV protection rated
- Lip balm: SPF 30+ to prevent chapping
Clothing & Footwear
- Hiking boots: Broken-in, ankle support
- Moisture-wicking layers: Avoid cotton
- Insulating layer: Fleece or down for elevation changes
- Rain jacket: For afternoon thunderstorms
Safety & Navigation
- First aid kit: Blister treatment, bandages, pain relief
- Map & compass/GPS: Don't rely solely on phone
- Headlamp: With extra batteries
- Emergency shelter: Space blanket or bivy
For comprehensive packing guidance, visit our travel packing list and travel safety tips.
Road Trip Ideas for Utah's Best Hikes
Utah's national parks are close enough to visit multiple parks in one trip. Here are some popular road trip itineraries that maximize your hiking opportunities.
The Mighty Five Circuit (7-10 Days)
Hit all five of Utah's national parks in one epic road trip. Start in Las Vegas or Salt Lake City and loop through Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands.
Suggested Route:
- Zion National Park (2 days) - Angels Landing, The Narrows
- Bryce Canyon (1 day) - Queen's Garden & Navajo Loop
- Capitol Reef (1 day) - Capitol Gorge, Hickman Bridge
- Moab/Arches (2 days) - Delicate Arch, Devils Garden
- Canyonlands (1-2 days) - Mesa Arch, Grand View Point
Southern Utah Highlights (4-5 Days)
Focus on Zion and Bryce Canyon with time for thorough exploration of each park's best trails.
Suggested Route:
- Fly into Las Vegas, drive to Zion (2.5 hours)
- Zion National Park (2-3 days) - Multiple hikes
- Bryce Canyon (1-2 days) - Hoodoo trails
- Return via scenic Highway 89
Moab Adventure Base (3-5 Days)
Use Moab as your base to explore Arches, Canyonlands, and surrounding areas including Corona Arch and Dead Horse Point.
Suggested Itinerary:
- Arches National Park (1-2 days)
- Canyonlands - Island in the Sky (1 day)
- Corona Arch & local trails (1 day)
- Optional: Canyonlands - Needles District (1 day)
Planning a road trip? Check out our road trip essentials guide for packing tips and travel advice.
Safety Tips for Hiking Utah's Deserts & Canyons
Utah's unique environment presents specific hazards that require awareness and preparation. Follow these guidelines to stay safe on the trail.
Heat & Dehydration
- Drink water before you feel thirsty—thirst means you're already dehydrated
- Start hikes early (before 8 AM) in summer to avoid peak heat
- Watch for heat exhaustion symptoms: dizziness, nausea, headache
- Avoid hiking in temperatures above 100°F unless absolutely necessary
Flash Floods
- Check weather forecasts before entering slot canyons or narrow washes
- Avoid canyons during monsoon season (July-September) afternoon storms
- Rain doesn't need to be local—storms miles away can cause floods
- If you hear thunder or see dark clouds, exit canyons immediately
Navigation & Getting Lost
- Download offline maps before your hike—cell service is unreliable
- Carry a physical map and compass as backup
- Tell someone your hiking plans and expected return time
- If lost, stay put and make yourself visible to searchers
Wildlife & Environmental Hazards
- Watch for rattlesnakes, especially in warm weather—give them space
- Don't touch cryptobiotic soil (dark crusty patches)—it takes decades to recover
- Scorpions and spiders hide in cool spots—shake out boots before wearing
- Mountain lions are rare but present—hike in groups when possible
Emergency Contacts
Emergency Services
Call 911
Zion National Park
(435) 772-3256
Search & Rescue
Contact park rangers or call 911
For more comprehensive safety guidance, visit our travel safety page.
Where to Stay Near Utah's Best Hiking Spots
Strategic accommodation choices can maximize your hiking time and minimize driving. Here are the best base camps for each region.
Zion National Park Area
Springdale (Park Entrance)
Closest to park, walkable to shuttle, many dining options. Book months ahead for peak season.
Hurricane (20 min away)
More affordable, good chain hotels, easy access to Zion and St. George area trails.
Inside the Park
Zion Lodge offers the ultimate convenience but books up a year in advance.
Bryce Canyon Area
Bryce Canyon City
Just outside park entrance, several lodges and restaurants, convenient for sunrise hikes.
Tropic (15 min away)
Quieter, more affordable, charming small town with local character.
Inside the Park
Bryce Canyon Lodge is the only in-park option, offering unbeatable access to trails.
Moab (Arches & Canyonlands)
Downtown Moab
Adventure town with excellent restaurants, gear shops, and nightlife. Central to both parks.
Highway 191 North
Closer to Arches entrance, quieter than downtown, good for early morning starts.
Camping
Numerous campgrounds in and around both parks for budget-conscious hikers.
Capitol Reef Area
Torrey
Closest town with good lodging and dining, 10 minutes from park entrance.
Fruita Campground
Inside the park near historic orchards, first-come first-served, beautiful setting.
Hanksville
Budget option 40 minutes east, good base for exploring remote areas.
3-7 Day Utah Hiking Itineraries
Sample itineraries to help you plan your Utah hiking adventure based on available time and experience level.
3-Day Zion Intensive (Moderate to Challenging)
Day 1: Angels Landing
Start early for permit hike. Afternoon: Canyon Overlook Trail and explore Springdale.
Day 2: The Narrows
Full day wading through the Virgin River. Rent gear in Springdale the night before.
Day 3: Observation Point or Emerald Pools
Choose based on energy level. Observation Point for ambitious hikers, Emerald Pools for recovery day.
5-Day Mighty Five Sampler (Moderate)
Day 1: Zion - Angels Landing or Observation Point
Arrive early, tackle one major hike, drive to Bryce (2 hours).
Day 2: Bryce Canyon - Queen's Garden & Navajo Loop
Morning hike, afternoon drive to Capitol Reef (2 hours).
Day 3: Capitol Reef - Hickman Bridge & Capitol Gorge
Two shorter hikes, afternoon drive to Moab (2.5 hours).
Day 4: Arches - Delicate Arch & Devils Garden
Early start for Delicate Arch, afternoon Devils Garden hike.
Day 5: Canyonlands - Mesa Arch & Grand View Point
Sunrise at Mesa Arch, explore Island in the Sky district.
7-Day Family-Friendly Adventure (Easy to Moderate)
Days 1-2: Zion
Riverside Walk, Lower Emerald Pool, Canyon Overlook, Pa'rus Trail. Stay in Springdale.
Days 3-4: Bryce Canyon
Rim Trail, Queen's Garden, Sunset to Sunrise Point walk. Explore visitor center.
Day 5: Capitol Reef
Capitol Gorge, Hickman Bridge, visit historic Fruita orchards. Drive to Moab.
Days 6-7: Moab Area
Sand Dune Arch, Mesa Arch, Corona Arch. Optional: rafting or scenic drives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Explore Utah's Trails?
From beginner-friendly walks to bucket-list adventures, Utah's hiking trails offer something for everyone. Start planning your desert hiking adventure today.
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Utah Hiking Summary
Best Value Destinations
Capitol Reef
Fewer crowds, lower costs
Corona Arch
Free, no park entrance fee
Snow Canyon SP
State park, lower fees
