Explore Utah

Hiking, mountaineering, and backpacking in Utah

Utah’s diverse landscape, from red rock deserts to alpine forests, makes it a top destination for hikers, mountaineers, and backpackers. Utah offers unparalleled opportunities for a casual day hike, a challenging mountain ascent, or a multi-day backpacking adventure. Below are some of the best spots for each activity, with links to maps and guides to help you plan your trip.

Best hiking trails in Utah

Zion National Park

Zion is one of the crown jewels of Utah’s National Parks, with dramatic sandstone cliffs, deep canyons, and lush valleys. Popular for both beginner and experienced hikers, Zion’s trails offer everything from scenic day hikes to strenuous climbs.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Known for its unique hoodoo rock formations, Bryce Canyon offers scenic hiking through its amphitheaters and rim trails. The park’s high elevation provides cooler temperatures, making it a perfect summer hiking destination.

Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands offers various hikes, from short, easy trails to challenging, remote backcountry routes. It’s an excellent place for both hiking and backpacking, with stunning views of canyon networks and the Colorado River.

Arches National Park

Arches National Park is famous for its over 2,000 natural stone arches. Hikers can enjoy a range of easy, scenic hikes or more strenuous routes leading to iconic spots like Delicate Arch and Devil’s Garden.

Capitol Reef National Park

Less crowded than Zion or Bryce, Capitol Reef is a hidden gem for hikers seeking solitude. Its colorful cliffs, domes, and natural bridges provide the perfect backdrop for scenic hikes.

Best Mountaineering in Utah

Mount Timpanogos

Mount Timpanogos, located in the Wasatch Range near Provo, is one of the most famous peaks for mountaineers in Utah. The climb offers beautiful wildflower meadows, alpine lakes, and a stunning summit view.

  • Elevation: 11,752 feet
  • Route: Timpanogos Trail via Aspen Grove or Timpooneke Trail
  • Map & Guide: Mount Timpanogos Guide

King’s Peak (Uinta Mountains)

King’s Peak, Utah’s highest point, is challenging and rewarding. Located in the Uinta Mountains, this peak requires a multi-day backpacking trip for most mountaineers, passing through rugged alpine terrain.

Lone Peak

One of Utah’s most challenging climbs, Lone Peak, rises high above the Salt Lake Valley. The ascent is steep and rugged, making it popular for seasoned mountaineers seeking a challenge.

Best backpacking routes in Utah

Uinta Highline Trail

The Uinta Highline Trail is one of Utah’s most scenic backpacking routes. It traverses the Uinta Mountains from east to west. This multi-day trek offers stunning alpine views, remote wilderness, and high-elevation passes.

Escalante Grand Staircase National Monument

The Escalante region offers some of the best backpacking in Southern Utah. Its remote area features slot canyons, desert streams, and breathtaking sandstone formations. Backpackers should be well-prepared.

  • Famous Routes: Coyote Gulch, Harris Wash, Neon Canyon
  • Terrain: Slot canyons, desert streams, arches
  • Map & Guide: Escalante Backpacking Guide

Buckskin Gulch – Paria Canyon

Buckskin Gulch is one of the world’s longest and deepest slot canyons, providing a thrilling backpacking experience. This route combines the beauty of slot canyons with the rugged adventure of backpacking in a remote desert.

Zion Traverse Trek

The Zion Traverse is a point-to-point backpacking route that takes hikers through the heart of Zion National Park. This multi-day trek provides spectacular views and an immersive experience in the park’s diverse landscapes.

Dark Canyon Wilderness

Located in southeastern Utah, the Dark Canyon Wilderness is an isolated and rugged area perfect for experienced backpackers. Its remote canyons and desert landscapes offer solitude and stunning scenery.

Additional Hiking, Mountaineering, and Backpacking Resources

  • Utah Hiking Trails: An extensive guide to Utah’s hiking trails, including top spots for mountaineering and backpacking.
  • AllTrails Utah: Interactive maps and trail information for Utah hikers, backpackers, and climbers.
  • Backpacking Utah Guide: Detailed guides for multi-day backpacking trips across the state.

 

Tips for Safe Hiking, Mountaineering, and Backpacking

  • Check the Weather: Utah’s weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains. Always check the forecast before heading out.
  • Know Your Limits: Choose trails and routes that match your skill level, and be prepared for the physical demands of Utah’s varied terrain.
  • Bring Plenty of Water: Many of Utah’s hikes and climbs are in desert regions where water is scarce, so pack plenty for your journey. You should drink at least one liter of water per hour of hiking.
  • Leave No Trace: Respect the land by packing out all trash and minimizing your environmental impact. The hiking saying “pack it in, pack it out” means anything you bring into the woods, you should also bring out.

 

Whether looking for a scenic day hike or a challenging multi-day backpacking trip, Utah has something for everyone. Explore these diverse landscapes and discover the beauty of the Beehive State!