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Bells Canyon Trail to Lower Falls

Routes

Running trails & routes

Bells Canyon Trail to Lower Falls

Hard

2.9

(29)

runners

Bells Canyon Trail to Lower Falls

Q: Where is the trailhead for Bells Canyon Trail to Lower Falls, and what are the parking options?

The trailhead for the Bells Canyon Trail to Lower Falls is located near Sandy, Utah. Parking is available at the Bells Canyon Granite Trailhead . Due to the trail's popularity, especially on weekends and during peak seasons, the parking lot can fill up quickly. Arriving early is recommended.

Q: Are dogs allowed on the Bells Canyon Trail to Lower Falls?

No, dogs are not permitted on this trail. Bells Canyon is a protected watershed area, and regulations prohibit dogs to maintain water quality.

Q: What is the best time of year to visit the Lower Falls?

The best time to visit is generally from spring through early fall, specifically April to October. Spring and early summer offer the most impressive waterfall flow due to snowmelt, while wildflowers are abundant in late spring and early summer.

Q: Are there any permits or fees required to access the trail or the Lone Peak Wilderness?

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the Bells Canyon Trail to Lower Falls or to enter the Lone Peak Wilderness area where it is located.

Q: What is the terrain like on the way to the Lower Falls?

The terrain varies. The initial section to the Bells Canyon Reservoir involves a steep but short ascent. After the reservoir, the path is relatively easier on an old jeep road. However, the difficulty significantly increases towards the Lower Falls , becoming steeper and rockier, with a light rock scramble in the final half to three-quarters of a mile. The area near the falls can be slippery.

Q: What can I see along the route?

The trail offers diverse scenery. You'll pass the serene Bells Canyon Reservoir , then wind through open meadows and dense forests of oak, maple, and pine. Panoramic views of the Salt Lake Valley are visible from various points. The highlight is the beautiful Bells Canyon Lower Falls , a cascade over granite boulders. Wildflowers are common in spring and summer, and you might spot wildlife like moose and deer.

Q: Is the Bells Canyon Trail to Lower Falls suitable for beginners?

This trail is considered difficult, especially the final section to the Lower Falls which involves steep, rocky terrain and some scrambling. While the initial part to the reservoir is more moderate, the full route to the falls is challenging and may not be suitable for beginner joggers or hikers.

Q: Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Bells Canyon Trail, Lower Bell Canyon Reservoir Loop, and Bells Canyon Waterfall Trail.

Q: Is there a good time to visit to avoid crowds?

To avoid the busiest times, consider visiting on weekdays rather than weekends, and aim for early mornings or later afternoons. The trail is very popular, especially during peak hiking seasons.

Q: What should I bring for this jogging route?

Given the trail's difficulty and rocky sections, sturdy trail running shoes or hiking boots are essential. Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as there is no potable water on the trail. Hiking poles can be helpful for stability, particularly on the steep and slippery sections near the falls.

01:28

8.52km

450m

Running

Prepare for a challenging jog on the Bells Canyon Trail to Lower Falls, a difficult 5.3-mile (8.5 km) route that climbs 1472 feet (449 metres). You can expect to complete this demanding journey to the waterfall in about 1 hour and 28 minutes. The path winds through varied terrain, from open meadows to dense forests of oak, maple, and pine, offering glimpses of the Salt Lake Valley. The highlight is the beautiful cascade of the Bells Canyon Lower Falls, tumbling over large granite boulders, but be ready for a steep and rocky final stretch to reach it. This trail offers a rewarding experience for those seeking a vigorous outdoor workout with scenic rewards.

When planning your visit, remember that the Bells Canyon Trail is a watershed area, so dogs are not permitted on this route. The best times to jog are from April to October, with spring and early summer providing the most impressive waterfall flow due to snowmelt. Be aware that the trail can become quite crowded, especially on weekends, so consider an early start if you prefer more solitude. Parking is available at the Bells Canyon Granite Trailhead, which marks the beginning of your adventure.

Beyond the physical challenge, the Bells Canyon Trail offers a unique connection to the local environment. As you jog, you'll pass the serene Bells Canyon Reservoir, set against a dramatic mountainous backdrop. Keep an eye out for local wildlife; you might spot moose or deer along the way, especially in quieter moments. Wildflowers are abundant in late spring and early summer, adding splashes of color to the landscape and enhancing the natural beauty of this popular trail within the Lone Peak Wilderness.

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Lone Peak Wilderness

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

29 m

Bells Canyon Granite Trailhead

Highlight • Trail

The Granite Trailhead leads you down the Bells Canyon Trail towards beautiful reservoirs and waterfalls. The trail is open from sunrise to 10 p.m.

Tip by

1.17 km

Bells Canyon Reservoir

Highlight • Lake

This pretty reservoir is, understandably, a very popular destination for families — and the views out over Salt Lake City aren't bad, either. You'll have a better chance at an uninterrupted run if you come early in the morning or during the week, and there are enough rocks in places along the trail to make it technical and interesting.

Tip by

3.76 km

Bells Canyon Lower Falls

Highlight • Waterfall

This is the most impressive waterfall along the Dry Creek, but it can get pretty crowded. Coming early or during the week will help you avoid having to weave in and out of too many hikers.

Tip by

8.52 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

4.04 km

3.37 km

1.09 km

< 100 m

Surfaces

7.41 km

1.09 km

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Wednesday 6 May

12°C

4°C

0 %

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Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the trailhead for Bells Canyon Trail to Lower Falls, and what are the parking options?

The trailhead for the Bells Canyon Trail to Lower Falls is located near Sandy, Utah. Parking is available at the Bells Canyon Granite Trailhead. Due to the trail's popularity, especially on weekends and during peak seasons, the parking lot can fill up quickly. Arriving early is recommended.

Are dogs allowed on the Bells Canyon Trail to Lower Falls?

No, dogs are not permitted on this trail. Bells Canyon is a protected watershed area, and regulations prohibit dogs to maintain water quality.

What is the best time of year to visit the Lower Falls?

The best time to visit is generally from spring through early fall, specifically April to October. Spring and early summer offer the most impressive waterfall flow due to snowmelt, while wildflowers are abundant in late spring and early summer.

Are there any permits or fees required to access the trail or the Lone Peak Wilderness?

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the Bells Canyon Trail to Lower Falls or to enter the Lone Peak Wilderness area where it is located.

What is the terrain like on the way to the Lower Falls?

The terrain varies. The initial section to the Bells Canyon Reservoir involves a steep but short ascent. After the reservoir, the path is relatively easier on an old jeep road. However, the difficulty significantly increases towards the Lower Falls, becoming steeper and rockier, with a light rock scramble in the final half to three-quarters of a mile. The area near the falls can be slippery.

What can I see along the route?

The trail offers diverse scenery. You'll pass the serene Bells Canyon Reservoir, then wind through open meadows and dense forests of oak, maple, and pine. Panoramic views of the Salt Lake Valley are visible from various points. The highlight is the beautiful Bells Canyon Lower Falls, a cascade over granite boulders. Wildflowers are common in spring and summer, and you might spot wildlife like moose and deer.

Is the Bells Canyon Trail to Lower Falls suitable for beginners?

This trail is considered difficult, especially the final section to the Lower Falls which involves steep, rocky terrain and some scrambling. While the initial part to the reservoir is more moderate, the full route to the falls is challenging and may not be suitable for beginner joggers or hikers.

Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Bells Canyon Trail, Lower Bell Canyon Reservoir Loop, and Bells Canyon Waterfall Trail.

Is there a good time to visit to avoid crowds?

To avoid the busiest times, consider visiting on weekdays rather than weekends, and aim for early mornings or later afternoons. The trail is very popular, especially during peak hiking seasons.

What should I bring for this jogging route?

Given the trail's difficulty and rocky sections, sturdy trail running shoes or hiking boots are essential. Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as there is no potable water on the trail. Hiking poles can be helpful for stability, particularly on the steep and slippery sections near the falls.

How long does it typically take to jog this route?

The average jogging time for the 8.5 km (5.3 miles) round trip to the Lower Falls is approximately 1 hour and 28 minutes, though this can vary significantly based on fitness level and how much time is spent at the falls.