The best waterfall hikes and walks in Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest

Embark on the Mill B North Fork Trail to Overlook, an easy hiking route spanning 1.3 miles (2.0 km) with an elevation gain of 783 feet (239 metres). You can expect to complete this journey in about 48 minutes. The trail begins with stairs and switchbacks, leading you through shaded areas filled with pines and aspens. A short distance in, you will discover Hidden Falls, a beautiful waterfall, before the path opens up to offer glimpses of the canyon and the wider Salt Lake Valley.

This trail is accessible year-round from the S-curve in Big Cottonwood Canyon, making it a convenient option for a quick outdoor escape. While the path is generally well-maintained, be aware that winter conditions can bring slush and deeper snow. If you plan to visit during colder months, consider bringing snowshoes or microspikes to navigate the terrain safely.

The Mill B North Fork Trail is nestled within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, offering a rewarding experience for its relatively short length. The highlight is the Mill B Overlook, which provides panoramic vistas down into Big Cottonwood Canyon. This route is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area and enjoy impressive views without committing to a full-day excursion.

The North Dry Creek Trail is a difficult hike, spanning 2.3 miles (3.6 km) with a significant elevation gain of 1619 feet (493 metres). You will face a strenuous ascent on steep, rocky terrain, often rated like a Black Diamond ski run for its demanding nature. This challenging route, estimated to take 1 hour and 34 minutes, requires careful navigation as the path can be hard to follow in places. As you climb, you can anticipate a rugged atmosphere and the potential for expansive views over the Utah County landscape from higher elevations. The sheer effort of this climb is its own reward.

Planning your visit to this unsanctioned trail means you should expect minimal amenities and no official parking at the trailhead. Since the route is very steep and rocky, come prepared with appropriate footwear to handle the rugged experience. Always check local conditions before you head out, as the trail can be intermittent and challenging to navigate. Be ready for a demanding climb that tests your endurance.

This route is known as an old river hike trail, reflecting its natural and untamed character within the Lone Peak Wilderness. Its unsanctioned status means it offers a raw, unfiltered outdoor experience, distinct from more developed trails. The demanding nature of the climb and the need for careful navigation make it a notable challenge in the region. It stands out for those seeking a strenuous adventure away from marked paths.

Prepare for a challenging hike on the Big Baldy via Battle Creek Trail, a difficult route spanning 4.9 miles (8.0 km) with a significant elevation gain of 3410 feet (1039 metres). You can expect to spend about 3 hours and 38 minutes on this relentless uphill climb. The trail quickly leads you past the beautiful Battle Creek Falls within the first mile, offering an early visual treat. As you ascend, the path winds through Battle Creek Canyon, transitioning from dense forest into open, grassy meadows. This journey culminates at the Big Baldy Summit, where you are rewarded with expansive 360-degree views, stretching from Mount Timpanogos to the east and across the valley to the west.

When planning your hike, be aware that the Big Baldy via Battle Creek Trail is a strenuous climb, and much of the route is exposed to the sun. It is wise to start your adventure early in the day, especially during the summer months, to avoid the midday heat. The trailhead parking lot tends to fill up quickly, so arriving early will help you secure a spot. For the most vibrant scenery and greener conditions, consider tackling this route in June.

This trail is nestled within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, a region known for its rugged beauty and diverse ecosystems. The journey through Battle Creek Canyon and Dry Canyon showcases the varied terrain of this area, from lush creek-side environments to more arid, open sections. Reaching Big Baldy Summit offers a unique perspective on the surrounding landscape, highlighting the impressive scale of the Wasatch Front and its prominent peaks.

Embark on the Gloria Falls Trail, an easy hike that leads you through mostly shaded forested areas, where aspens and firs create a beautiful canopy. The terrain can be rocky and uneven in spots, but the journey offers outstanding views of Mount Superior and Little Cottonwood Canyon. The main attraction is Gloria Falls, a stunning 50-foot tiered waterfall that can be quite powerful during high water flow. This route is a manageable 1.2 miles (1.9 km) long, with an elevation gain of 566 feet (172 metres), and you can typically complete it in about 39 minutes.

The trailhead for Gloria Falls Trail is shared with the routes to Red Pine Lake and White Pine Lake. Be aware that the specific turn-off for Gloria Falls can be less clearly marked, so pay attention to signage. If you plan to hike in early spring or when snow is still present, be prepared for snowy and slick conditions, which might require microspikes or snowshoes. The optimal time to experience this trail is generally from late May through mid-October, when conditions are most favorable.

This trail is nestled within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, offering a classic mountain environment. Beyond the waterfall, you will find a diverse natural setting, with wildflowers blooming in summer and vibrant fall foliage transforming the landscape in autumn. The presence of aspens and firs throughout the hike contributes to a serene forest atmosphere, making it a refreshing escape into nature.