Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, I may receive a small commission (for which I am very grateful for) at no extra cost to you.

Just because the temperature is dropping, doesn’t mean that you need to stay inside. In fact, winter is a great time to explore the many hiking trails near Salt Lake City. The snow-capped mountains and crisp air make for a beautiful backdrop, and the trails are usually less crowded than in the summer. In this blog post, we will discuss some of our favorite Salt Lake City winter hikes. Whether you are looking for an easy hike or a more challenging adventure, we have something for everyone!

Note: Looking for other winter activities besides hiking? Check out this blog post about 13 things to do in Salt Lake City in the winter.

Hiking in the Winter

Many people in Utah think it’s time to pack up the hiking boots mid-fall and don’t break them out again until the spring. While that is certainly not true, hiking in the winter is a little different than hiking during the rest of the year.

If you hike near Salt Lake City in the spring, summer or fall, you might not even recognize some of the best Salt Lake City winter hikes as they can look drastically different in the snow. This post on how to hike in the winter has more tips on how to make your experience safe and more enjoyable. Some trails with deeper snow will require snowshoes, but for a large majority you can use Microspikes. Keep in mind if there has been a lot of recent snow that you might have to use snowshoes or wait for the trail to get packed down even if you can usually use microspikes.

Check trail reviews on AllTrails to get a better idea of trail conditions before heading out. I also review AllTrails to get an idea if the waterfall is or is not frozen. Depending on the popularity of the trail, you might not get a recent enough review, but it is still a good idea to check.

Additional important considerations for winter hiking:

• Check the weather and avalanche conditions before your hike
• Layer up and pack extra layers (+ mittens and a hat)
• Hike midday
• Bring a flashlight/headlamp and extra batteries
• Pack an emergency bivy
• Know your trail (I use the AllTrails app as it is mostly accurate in Utah)
• Bring a portable phone charger as your battery is more likely to die in the cold
• Pack snacks and water

What to Wear when Hiking in the Winter

Clothing

Temperature-regulation is important for safety which is why layering was already mentioned, but I want to get more into the specifics of clothing.

• Headwear: You have probably heard since you were young that the you can lose a lot of heat through your head. Therefore keeping your head warm is paramount in staying warm outside. I have both a trapper style hat, a wool liner for under my trapper hat, as well as a wool neck buff. The wool items are very small and packable which is nice.

• Upper body: Do me a favor, get on the wool bandwagon, like now. I know it is expensive but it is WORTH IT. Usually I wear a wool baselayer crew top and potentially a wool midlayer on top of that, depending on weather. The next layer I go with is a packable down jacket such as one of these (here and here). This goes on top of my wool baselayer. Lastly, I pack a shell jacket that is waterproof and helps insulate from the wind. Keep in mind when choosing sizing for these items that they will be layered and you do not want your movement to be restricted.

• Hands: Since I love taking pictures, my hands are usually the first thing to get cold when I am outside. I have a super warm pair of Black Diamond mittens. I also have glove liners for when I am working with my camera gear or phone so my hands didn’t have to come all of the way out and get exposed to the cold. Additionally, some people prefer to use Hot Hands to keep their hands warm as well. These are hit or miss for me and I often find that I need them to start warming up before I get cold. However, they are pretty inexpensive so probably worth a shot.

• Lower body: There are several approaches you can take to lower body warmth. If you know there will not be a lot of snow on the trail, then you could consider wool baselayer leggings or fleece-lined leggings. If you knew or suspected there was going to be a lot of snow, you could bring a waterproof pant to go over the leggings, or opt for a pair of ski pants.

• Feet: Wool socks are awesome. Please see above section about wool. You can layer your socks with a thick pair and a thin pair, but make sure your boots are sized for this. Don’t overdo the socks and try to do more than two layers. Make sure you try on your boots ahead of time and know that they don’t cut off your circulation as you add a second pair of socks. In addition to wool socks, you also should consider waterproof hiking boots or waterproof hiking shoes + gaiters.

Trekking Poles

Hiking in the snow and in slippery conditions can be much more difficult than hiking the rest of the year. Trekking poles can make your hike feel more stable, they can also be used to help determine the depth of snowpack, or in an emergency as a crutch for a twisted ankle. These are the ones that I use.

Microspikes

An insider trick for hiking in the snow is definitely the use of Microspikes. These help with traction on slippery snow and ice. I honestly would not hike in the winter without them. The cool part is that microspikes fit over your regular boot to provide that extra traction, so you can take them on and off as needed. The specific brand by Kahtoola is best due to the specifics of the chains. My husband bought a different (cheaper) brand and regretted it. There was a metal bar in the front that presses into his shoes and pinches his toes on the way down. Don’t be cheap, buy the good ones.

Best Salt Lake City Winter Hikes

Without delaying any further, here are some of the best Salt Lake City winter hikes with information on how to prepare for them. These hikes are listed in order from easiest to hardest.

Hidden Falls

Number of Miles: 0.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 49 ft
Difficulty (1 is easiest – 5 is hardest): 1
Permit Required: No
Fees (if applicable): No
Dogs Allowed: No

Hidden Falls is not much of a hike but that doesn’t mean it isn’t beautiful and it is perfect if you are looking for a quick and accessible winter hike in Salt Lake City. Located on the S curves in Big Cottonwood Canyon, you will have to cross the road in order to access the falls.

Despite the trail to Hidden Falls being short, I still used my microspikes for stability. As Hidden Falls is located in Big Cottonwood Canyon, dogs are not allowed.

Bonneville Shoreline Trail

Number of Miles: 3.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 528 ft
Difficulty (1 is easiest – 5 is hardest): 2
Permit Required: No
Fees (if applicable): None
Dogs Allowed: Yes but must be on a leash
Best Time of Year to Hike: Year-round

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to discover the Bonneville Shoreline Trail. Because during the winter, this top hike near Salt Lake City becomes an outdoor wonderland that showcases the exquisite natural beauty of the atea through panoramic views of Salt Lake Valley and the surrounding mountains.

So, hike through tranquil forests, and admire frozen streams that will leave you in awe. However, to fully enjoy your trip you must make sure that you have waterproof hiking boots for traction on icy paths.

Also, be sure to wear thermal layers and insulated outerwear to keep you warm and comfortable during one of the best winter hikes near Salt Lake City.

Other must-haves include gloves, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the magic of this snowy wonderland.

Now, this trail features countless scenic viewpoints that give way to breathtaking panoramas of the valley and the snow-capped peaks in the distance.

So, the serenity of the trail amidst the snowy landscape offers a chance to reconnect with nature, find inner peace, and create memories that will warm your heart for years to come.

Mill Creek Canyon

Number of Miles: as long as you want
Elevation Gain: gradual incline
Difficulty (1 is easiest – 5 is hardest): 1-2
Permit Required: No
Fees (if applicable): $5
Dogs Allowed: Yes

Mill Creek Canyon is a beautiful canyon accessed very close to Salt Lake City. From November 1-June 30 (weather-depending) a portion of the canyon closes to vehicle traffic and allows users to walk, hike, cross country ski, and snowshoe up the road.

This is a great option if you don’t want to be focused on “getting to a destination” and instead just want to get outside. Because you are just walking on the road, you can turn around at any time making this as long as you want go go.

If you want something more challenging that is also dog-friendly in Mill Creek, check out Rattlesnake Gulch Trail and Desolation Trail to Salt Lake Overlook.

Mill B South Trail

Number of Miles: 0.62 miles
Elevation Gain: 104 ft
Difficulty (1 is easiest – 5 is hardest): 1
Permit Required: No
Fees (if applicable): No
Dogs Allowed: No
Best Time of Year to Hike: Year-round

Mill B South is an easy hike that follows a very well-traveled trail up to one of the most visited and scenic spots in the Central Wasatch.

Because this is one of the best winter hikes near Salt Lake City it is known for its idyllic charm and picturesque allure, leaving you captivated by its irresistible charm.

So, as you traverse the Mill B South Trail, prepare to meander through towering forests that offer glimpses of wildlife and opportunities for peaceful reflection.

You will also be greeted by awe-inspiring panoramic views of snow-dusted peaks, culminating in an immersive and tranquil winter hiking experience that make this one of the best Salt Lake City winter hikes around.

Donut Falls

Number of Miles: 3.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 518 ft
Difficulty (1 is easiest – 5 is hardest): 2
Permit Required: No
Fees (if applicable): No
Dogs Allowed: No

Donut Falls is another frozen waterfall hike located in Big Cottonwood Canyon and perfect to add on to your trip to Hidden Falls. Dogs are not allowed in Big Cottonwood Canyon

For the end of the hike, you actually climb up the rocks to Donut Falls itself. Depending on the year, you have to ensure that you go when the falls are not fully covered in snow – a mistake I have made previously. There is a big sign where the falls are that basically says climb at your own risk and it can be a dangerous scramble so be careful.

Mount Olympus Trail

Number of Miles: 6.8 Miles
Elevation Gain: 4087 feet
Difficulty (1 is easiest – 5 is hardest): 3
Permit Required: No
Fees (if applicable): None
Dogs Allowed: Yes and they may be off-leash in some areas
Best Time of Year to Hike: in March through October.

Mount Olympus Trail is a majestic trail that reveals the inspiring beauty of Salt Lake City’s natural landscape through towering cliffs and pristine tracts of wilderness that make for a picturesque setting.

In fact, the winter season transforms the trail into an unbelievable spot as the natural landscape starts to glisten with snow.

Additionally, the Trail presents an extraordinary opportunity to test your physical abilities. So, before you challenge yourself with a rewarding hike through rocky terrain, with various steep sections, you have to bring waterproof hiking boots for stability on snowy paths.

Once on the trail, make your way through charming forests and pass by stunning mountains that will leave you with a deep appreciation for the wonders of the natural world.

Please note that winter hiking can present additional challenges and risks too. So, it’s important to be prepared with proper gear, check weather conditions, and exercise caution while on the trails.

Bells Canyon Trail to Lower Falls

Number of Miles: 4.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 1453 ft
Difficulty (1 is easiest – 5 is hardest): 3
Permit Required: No
Fees (if applicable): No
Dogs Allowed: No

For another good frozen waterfall hike, check out Bells Canyon to Lower Falls. Conveniently located, you can also stop at the reservoir if you are looking for a short hike. You are not allowed to bring dogs while exploring in Bells Canyon.

Personally, I feel like this trail is easier (with microspikes) in the winter than in the summer so it is rated a difficulty of 3 rather than a 4 here.

Kanarra Falls Trail

Number of Miles: 3.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 600 ft
Difficulty (1 is easiest – 5 is hardest): 2
Permit Required: Yes
Fees (if applicable): No
Dogs Allowed: No
Best Time of Year to Hike: Spring through Fall

Kanarra Falls is a spectacular area to hike in since it treats hikers to stunning views of the surrounding area.

So, after getting ready and prepared for this journey you’ll be in awe of the towering canyon walls, the shimmering streams, and the sheer magnificence of cascading waterfalls.

In fact, the winter season enhances the landscape, infusing it with a quiet ambiance. So, Kanarra Falls Trail is easily among the best Salt Lake City winter hikes that will transport you into a

Adam’s Canyon

Number of Miles: 3.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 1430 ft
Difficulty (1 is easiest – 5 is hardest): 3
Permit Required: No
Fees (if applicable): No
Dogs Allowed: Yes

If you want to bring your furry friend on your waterfall hikes in Utah, Adam’s Canyon and Waterfall Canyon are for you. Located just north of Salt Lake City in Kaysville, Adam’s Canyon is a beautiful hike up to an impressive waterfall.

Currently there is some construction close to the trailhead so Google Maps may misdirect you to the trailhead. However, once you have it in your maps and get close to the trailhead, you can find your way.

Waterfall Canyon

Number of Miles: 2.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 1105 ft
Difficulty (1 is easiest – 5 is hardest): 3
Permit Required: No
Fees (if applicable): No
Dogs Allowed: Yes

Waterfall Canyon is another impressive waterfall in northern Utah. Located in Ogden, this waterfall is a little farther away than Adam’s Canyon but it does allow dogs. It is also incredibly beautiful year round and worth the visit no matter the season.

If you plan to take photos of the waterfall on this trail, be sure to bring a camera with a wide angle lense to capture the entire waterfall.

Lake Blanche

Number of Miles: 6.9 miles
Elevation Gain: 2706 ft
Difficulty (1 is easiest – 5 is hardest): 3-4
Permit Required: No
Fees (if applicable): No
Dogs Allowed: No
Best Time of Year to Hike: Spring, Summer, Fall

Lake Blanche is a classic year-round Salt Lake City hiking trail, but it is easily one of the best Salt Lake City winter hikes. Located in Big Cottonwood Canyon, you will enjoy the drive to get to the trail head as well. This trail can be demanding but its location and proximity to the Salt Lake Valley can’t be beat. Because of its accessibility, its a popular choice on weekends and holidays. Start early and go on a weekday in order to avoid the crowds.

Once you get started, you will quickly see why this is a favorite. The canyon views are beautiful, there is a potential to see wildlife, you hike through beautiful Aspen groves, and the lake is very impressive. Be prepared with lots of water, snacks, layers, and flashlights.

Best Salt Lake City Winter Hikes FAQs

Can You Hike in Salt Lake City in Winter?

Absolutely yes, Salt Lake City offers fantastic winter hiking opportunities. There are numerous trails to explore amidst snow-capped peaks.

Just make sure to have appropriate gear before you hike and check the trail conditions before setting out.

Where can I hike in Utah in the winter?

Discover the best winter hikes in Utah at various locations like Salt Lake City, Bryce Canyon National Park, Zion National Park, and more!

Can you hike in Salt Lake City in January?

Yes, you can hike in Salt Lake City in January. However, be prepared for colder temperatures and snowy conditions. So, be sure to wear the right gear.

Does Salt Lake City have good hiking?

Yes, of course. Salt Lake City is renowned for its exceptional hiking opportunities, offering a diverse array of scenic trails and stunning landscapes that beckon outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Best Salt Lake City Winter Hikes

If you’re looking for a way to get outside and enjoy the winter weather, Salt Lake City has some great hiking trails to offer. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, there’s a trail for you. Hopefully, this list of the best Salt Lake City winter hikes has you planning your next adventure. So grab your coat and boots and let’s go hiking! Are any of these hikes catching your eye or have you done any of them? Let me know in the comments!

You May Also Enjoy These Posts:

• Best Hikes in Utah
• 13 Things to do in Salt Lake City in the Winter
• Best Place to Ski in Utah
• Frozen Waterfall Hikes in Northern Utah
• 21 Places to Visit in Utah that aren’t National Parks
• Utah Ski Resorts: A review from a local skier
• Snow Tubing in Park City

Let’s Stay in Touch…

name:
email:

Sharing is caring!