Quick Facts:

Location: Near Alpine, Utah

Coordinates: 40.48290701586419, -111.7503536542155

Length: 4.2 Miles

Difficulty: Hard

Elevation Gain: 1,600 Feet

Dog Friendly: Yes

Introduction:

Horsetail Falls is a stunning waterfall located in the Lone Peak Wilderness near Alpine, Utah. This challenging but rewarding hike offers adventurers a chance to experience the beauty of Utah’s Wasatch Mountains, with lush forests, rugged terrain, and the breathtaking sight of water cascading down a steep cliff. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or someone looking for a challenging trail, Horsetail Falls is a must-visit destination for those seeking a true wilderness experience.

How to Get There:

Horsetail Falls is located in the Lone Peak Wilderness, just outside of Alpine, Utah. To reach the trailhead, take I-15 to the Timpanogos Highway/UT-92 exit (Exit 284) and head east toward Highland and Alpine. After approximately 4 miles, turn left onto 5300 W/Alpine Highway and continue for about 2 miles. At the roundabout, take the first exit onto Main Street, and then follow Grove Drive east for about 1.5 miles until it becomes Box Elder Canyon Road. Continue on Box Elder Canyon Road until you reach the Dry Creek Trailhead parking area, which serves as the starting point for the Horsetail Falls hike.

Parking Information:

Parking for Horsetail Falls is available at the Dry Creek Trailhead, which is located at the end of Box Elder Canyon Road. The parking lot is fairly large, but it can fill up quickly on weekends and during peak hiking seasons, so it’s a good idea to arrive early in the day to secure a spot. If the lot is full, additional parking can be found along the roadside, but please be mindful of local residents and park only in designated areas. There are no restrooms or water facilities at the trailhead, so be sure to plan accordingly.

Description of the Landscape:

The hike to Horsetail Falls takes you through some of the most scenic landscapes in the Lone Peak Wilderness. The trail begins by following Dry Creek, a small stream that winds its way through a dense forest of pine and aspen trees. As you ascend, the trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, with wildflowers dotting the landscape in the spring and summer months. The final approach to Horsetail Falls is steep and rocky, but the reward is well worth the effort. The waterfall itself is a magnificent sight, with water tumbling down a sheer cliff face into a pool below. The area around the falls is lush and green, providing a peaceful and serene environment where you can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the Wasatch Mountains.

Trail Difficulty and Length:

The Horsetail Falls Trail is considered moderately difficult, with some sections that may be challenging for beginners. The trail is approximately 4.2 miles round-trip, with an elevation gain of about 1,600 feet. The first part of the hike is relatively gentle, but the trail becomes steeper and more rugged as you approach the falls. The path is well-marked but includes some rocky sections and loose gravel, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The hike typically takes about 3 to 4 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the falls.

Is Horsetail Falls Trail Dog-Friendly?

Yes, the Horsetail Falls Trail is dog-friendly! Dogs are welcome on the trail, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. The trail’s length and terrain make it suitable for active dogs, but be aware that the steep sections may be challenging for some pets. Be sure to bring plenty of water for both you and your dog, as there are limited water sources along the trail, and the hike can be strenuous. Additionally, please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the trail clean and enjoyable for everyone.

Local Regulations:

When hiking Horsetail Falls Trail, it’s important to follow local regulations to protect the natural environment and ensure a safe experience for all visitors. Stay on the designated trail to avoid damaging the surrounding vegetation and landscape. The area around the falls can be slippery, especially after rain, so use caution when approaching the water. Swimming in the pool at the base of the falls is not recommended due to the cold water and slippery rocks. As always, pack out all trash and dispose of it properly to help preserve the beauty of the area. Additionally, since the trail is located within the Lone Peak Wilderness, practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment.

Other Nearby Trails:

The Lone Peak Wilderness offers a variety of other trails that are worth exploring. The nearby Box Elder Peak Trail provides a challenging hike with rewarding views from the summit of one of the highest peaks in the area. The Dry Creek Canyon Trail, which shares the same trailhead as Horsetail Falls, is another great option, offering a scenic hike through a beautiful canyon with opportunities for wildlife viewing. For those interested in a longer adventure, the Lone Peak Trailhead, located further up the canyon, provides access to the summit of Lone Peak, one of the most iconic and challenging hikes in the Wasatch Range.

Non-Hiking Attractions Nearby:

In addition to hiking, the Alpine area offers several other attractions and activities. The scenic drive along the Alpine Loop Road is a highlight, with numerous pull-offs and viewpoints where you can admire the breathtaking landscapes. The nearby town of Alpine offers a small selection of shops and restaurants, as well as the Alpine Art Center, which hosts art exhibits and cultural events throughout the year. For those interested in history, the American Fork Canyon, located just a short drive away, is home to the Timpanogos Cave National Monument, where you can explore a series of stunning limestone caves.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to hike Horsetail Falls is during the late spring (May to June) and early fall (September to October) when temperatures are mild, and the waterfall is at its most impressive, fueled by snowmelt from the surrounding mountains. Summer is also a popular time to visit, but the trail can get hot, especially in the middle of the day, so plan to hike early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the heat. Winter offers a quieter experience, but the trail can be icy and snow-covered, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear and take extra caution if you decide to hike during this time.