Winter hiking in Utah
Utah’s dramatic winter landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and tranquil alpine forests make it a paradise for snow-hiking enthusiasts. Whether looking for a quiet, snow-covered trail or an adventurous snowshoeing trek, Utah offers some of the country’s most scenic winter hiking spots. Here are the best places to go winter snow hiking in Utah, along with maps and guides to help you plan your next adventure.
Big Cottonwood Canyon
Big Cottonwood Canyon is a stunning winter retreat 30 minutes from Salt Lake City. With serene forests, frozen streams, and picturesque trails, it’s a haven for snow hikers and snowshoers of all skill levels.
- Famous Trails: Donut Falls, Lake Blanche Trail
- Terrain in Winter: Snow-covered forests, frozen waterfalls, alpine lakes
- Map & Guide: Big Cottonwood Canyon Winter Trail Guide
Mill Creek Canyon
Known for its dog-friendly snow trails and moderate winter hikes, Mill Creek Canyon offers accessible adventures for all skill levels. Its trails are well-tracked by hikers and snowshoers, making it an excellent choice for winter outings.
- Famous Trails: Grandeur Peak, Mill Creek Pipeline Trail
- Terrain: Forested trails, mountain vistas
- Map & Guide: Mill Creek Canyon Winter Guide
Little Cottonwood Canyon
Nestled in Salt Lake County, Little Cottonwood Canyon is a pristine winter wonderland, perfect for snowshoeing and exploring popular and hidden trails. It offers winter hikes through pristine snowfields and opportunities to explore well-known and lesser-traveled routes.
- Famous Trails: Red Pine Lake and Gloria Falls, White Pine Lake
- Terrain in Winter: Snowfields, frozen alpine lakes, scenic mountain views
- Map & Guide: Little Cottonwood Canyon Winter Guide
Utah Valley
As one of Utah’s most iconic peaks, Mount Timpanogos offers incredible winter hiking experiences, especially on its lower-elevation trails. Though the caves are closed in winter, the trail provides a beautiful winter hike with views of American Fork Canyon.
- Famous Trails: Timpanogos Cave, Stewart Falls, Battle Creek Falls
- Terrain in Winter: Snow-dusted canyons, frozen waterfalls, alpine vistas
- Map & Guide: Utah Valley Winter Guide
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon transforms into a magical landscape during winter, with its hoodoos dusted in snow, creating unforgettable scenery. The park is open year-round, and many trails are ideal for snow hiking or snowshoeing in winter.
- Famous Trails: Navajo Loop Trail, Queen’s Garden Trail
- Terrain in Winter: Snow-covered red rock hoodoos
- Map & Guide: Bryce Canyon Winter Guide
Antelope Island State Park
Antelope Island in Davis County offers a serene winter escape with snow-covered landscapes and breathtaking views of the Great Salt Lake. Although it is more commonly associated with summer hiking, it offers unique winter hikes with fewer crowds.
- Famous Trails: Frary Peak Trail, Buffalo Point Trail
- Terrain in Winter: Panoramic lake views, snow-covered plains
- Map & Guide: Antelope Island Winter Guide
Cedar Breaks National Monument
Cedar Breaks offers some of the best winter hiking in southern Utah. Cedar Breaks’ is a breathtaking winter destination, offering dramatic snow-covered landscapes for snowshoeing and hiking.
- Famous Trails: Spectra Point Trail, Alpine Pond Trail
- Terrain in Winter: Rim trails, frozen meadows, striking red rock formations
- Map & Guide: Cedar Breaks Winter Guide
Uinta Mountains
The Uinta Mountains in northeastern Utah are a snowshoer’s paradise. Summit County provides endless opportunities for winter adventure, with trails winding through snow-covered forests and frozen lakes.
- Famous Trails: Mirror Lake Trail, Bald Mountain Trail
- Terrain in Winter: Pine forests, frozen alpine lakes, high-elevation peaks
- Map & Guide: Uinta Mountains Winter Guide
Winter hiking tips and resources
- Trail Conditions: Always check weather and trail conditions before heading out. Many trails may require snowshoes, microspikes, or crampons for safe travel.
- Snowshoe Rentals: Many outdoor shops across Utah rent snowshoes. Some trails are groomed for cross-country skiing and do not require snowshoes.
- Spikes: Microspikes attached to your boot are often all you need on well-trodden trails, and they can also be rented or purchased.
- Layering: Utah winters can be cold and windy. Dress in layers to stay warm and dry.
Additional Maps and Guides:
- Utah Snowshoeing Guide: Comprehensive guide to snowshoeing trails in Utah.
- AllTrails Utah Winter Hiking: Browse top-rated winter hiking and snowshoeing trails.
With Utah’s diverse winter landscapes, there’s no shortage of places to enjoy a snow-covered adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned snow hiker or just getting started, these trails offer something for everyone looking to explore Utah’s winter beauty.