It's easy to take Utah's natural beauty for granted. This year, make it a priority to get out there and explore our beautiful state! We've compiled a list of what we believe to be some of the very best hikes in Utah. Lace-up your hiking boots and take these 12 incredible hikes; there's one for every month of the year.
1. January: Silver Lake Loop, Solitude Nordic Center, Big Cottonwood Canyon
Our list of the best hikes in Utah begins in Big Cottonwood Canyon. Silver Lake is one of the most scenic spots in Utah, and it's gorgeous year-round. Kick off the year with some fresh air and exercise! Bring your snowshoes or Nordic skies to explore the trail and tracks. You'll need to purchase a pass at the Solitude Nordic Center during winter months. When it comes to the best hikes in Utah, the Silver Lake Loop is an easy choice.
2. February: Delicate Arch, Arches National Park
Utah's most iconic rock formation, Delicate Arch is a place that every Utahn should see in person. February is a great time to take this 3.5-mile out-and-back trail; there are fewer tourists, and a dusting of snow makes the arch and its surroundings even more beautiful.
3. March: Angel's Landing, Zion National Park
The Angel's Landing Trail is known all over the world for its unique characteristics (and its terrifying heights). March temperatures are perfect for this hike - usually in the low-to-mid 50's. Be prepared for some sheer drop-offs...and a breathtaking view from the top! Learn more about the iconic Angel's Landing Trail in Utah.
4. April: Queens Garden Navajo Loop, Bryce Canyon National Park
The Queens Garden-Navajo Loop Trail at Bryce is a visitor favorite. You'll drop right down amongst the hoodoos along the 2.9-mile loop trail. Take an in-depth look at this beautiful Utah hiking trail.
5. May: Lower Calf Creek Falls, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
On a warm May day, the Lower Calf Creek Falls trail is a good choice. You'll see some cool prehistoric rock art and granaries along the way, and at the end of the trail, you're rewarded with this stunning, 130-foot-tall waterfall. Cool off in its pool before heading back.
6. June: Donut Falls, Big Cottonwood Canyon
Donut Falls is a favorite with hikers of all ages, and it's a great trail to take during hot summer months. You'll hike alongside the river, and then right down the middle of it to reach this unique waterfall. The hike is 3.5 miles out-and-back. Learn more about hiking Donut Falls in Utah.
7. July: Dog Lake, Millcreek Canyon
If you love to hike with your furry friend, this is the trail for you! During your hike, you'll pass pups on their way down, soaking wet, carrying sticks and wagging their tails. The lake at the top of the trail isn't very scenic, but it's the perfect swimming hole for your best friend. Learn more about this incredible, dog-friendly destination in Utah.
8. August: Mount Timpanogos via Timpanooke trail, American Fork Canyon
Challenge yourself with this incredible 15-mile out-and-back trail to the peak of Mount Timp. You'll want to bring along plenty of water (and snacks!) to fuel this all-day-long hike. The scenery along the way is stunning, and the view from the top is unforgettable. While you're there, don't forget to check out Scout Falls.
9. September: Cascade Springs, Alpine Loop, Utah County
You'll find Cascade Springs along the Alpine Loop, and it's gorgeous in the fall. It's an easy hike along a boardwalk with just a few steep spots. You'll pass pretty ponds and little falls cascading amongst the fall foliage. When it comes to short and sweet trails in Utah, it doesn't get much better than this trail.
10. October: Wind Cave Trail, Logan Canyon
The Wind Cave Trail is our favorite fall foliage trail. Logan Canyon is filled with rich orange, yellow, and red leaves, and the cave itself is fun to explore. The views from it are picturesque, too.
11. November: Hickman Bridge Trail, Capitol Reef National Park
The weather might be slushy and cold in northern Utah in November, but Capitol Reef National Park is generally still sunny and around 50 degrees. The trail to Hickman Bridge is short and sweet - just 1.8 miles out and back, and the huge arch is amazing. Learn more about the iconic Hickman Bridge Trail in Utah.
12. December: Goblin Valley Loop, Goblin Valley State Park
Last but certainly not least, our list of the best hikes in Utah concludes with a December-friendly trail in Goblin Valley State Park. Goblin Valley is one of the strangest spots in the entire Beehive State. The valley full of odd hoodoos is always fun to explore, and in the winter you might enjoy a dusting of snow. Moreover, Goblin Valley State Park has been voted the best state park in Utah.
Do you agree that these are some of the best hikes in Utah? Share your favorites with us in the comments below -- we'd love to hear from you!
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