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With an abundance of the greatest snow on earth this winter you might be cursing the fluffy white stuff if you don't ski or snowboard. But there are plenty of Utah hiking trails that can be traversed year-round, making it easy for you to get out and enjoy the outdoors even if you aren't a winter sports enthusiast.
Just remember that safety is of utmost importance for winter hikes. Not having the appropriate clothing and gear can turn a weekend adventure into a dangerous situation. Think waterproof boots, lots of layers, sunscreen, food, water, and emergency fire starters. And check with the Utah Avalanche Center for conditions in the area where you plan to be. Pro tip: you might even want to bring ski poles and snowshoes if the snow level calls for it!
With that said, don't let a little snow stop you from getting outside this winter and enjoying these stunning hikes.
Diamond Fork Hot Springs
There's not much better than a steamy dip on a cold winter day. Trade your bathtub or hot tub for something a little wilder at Diamond Fork Hot Springs, also known as Fifth Water Hot Springs. The sparkling turquoise-green pools are a top destination for winter hikers. Utah.com reports the snow is usually well-packed and you can usually hike to the hot pools without snowshoes, but you need a four-wheel-drive vehicle to reach the trailhead.
Beware of both nude bathers and the possibility of the 4.5-mile trail becoming much longer because of winter road closures. In December the Utah health department found harmful bacteria present in the water, so hikers should avoid fully submerging or ingesting the water.
Delicate Arch
Red rock: gorgeous. Red rock sprinkled with snow? Incredible. As Utah's National Parks swell to capacity more and more each summer, visit the most iconic arch in the country during the winter offseason.
The 3-mile out-and-back trail can be deceptively tricky with 600 feet of elevation gain and slick rock made even slicker in the winter. So bring your microspikes, and bask in the view at the top of the hulking arch with only a few fellow hikers rather than a small village.
Little Cottonwood Trail
Simple and close to home, Little Cottonwood Trail is a peaceful escape from the city. The gently rising trail runs alongside a small river for about 5 miles roundtrip, but you can turn back anytime to make it shorter. This makes it a great choice for families and beginners. When the snow is deep, Little Cottonwood is perfect for snowshoeing! You might even glimpse some wildlife.
Donut Falls
You may not find any pastries on this hike (although you can definitely pack some in) but you will find spectacular views of the donut-shaped falls. The waterfall pouring through a round hole in the rock ceiling will make you feel as if you're discovering a secret place. The trail will be slick and packed down. Good boots are a must and recent hikers recommend spikes.
The trailhead is a mere half-hour drive east of Salt Lake City, and you can park at the Mill D parking lot to complete the 3.5-mile round-trip hike.
Ensign Peak
If the inversion has got you down, get up above it by hiking Ensign Peak. The trail is situated above Salt Lake City, almost directly behind the Utah State Capitol. Ensign Peak is considered an easy hike at less than a mile long, but you'll gain a cool 400 feet of elevation in that short time. Watch out for ice patches on the steep trail. The views of the snowy Salt Lake Valley are a can't-miss, as is the unblemished fresh air.
Silver Lake
You'll be walking in a winter wonderland at Silver Lake. The trail is one of the most popular along the Wasatch and is amazingly picturesque in every season. The trailhead is at the top of Big Cottonwood Canyon in Brighton and will take you on a loop around the lake.
AllTrails tallies this hike at 4.7 miles, but keep in mind that with winter road closures you could have to hike a little more to get to the trailhead. Recent reviewers recommended snowshoes and poles for deep snow. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, you could spot a moose!
Bridal Veil Falls
Looking for something a little more family-friendly and accessible? Look no further than Bridal Veil Falls in Provo Canyon. It is the perfect first foray into winter hiking if you've never done any before (or you just really don't want to be out in the cold too long!) The paved 1.4-mile trail is suitable for hikers of all ages and abilities and features the state's most-photographed waterfall. You can also bring your pup along on this dog-friendly trail.
A massive avalanche struck here earlier this winter and the area can be treacherous if you stray from the paved places. During cold winters the falls freeze and it becomes a popular spot for ice climbers.
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