Quick Facts:
Location: Little Cottonwood Canyon near Salt Lake City, Utah
Coordinates: 40.572671699266216, -111.7264813439752
Length: .25 Miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: Less than 100 Feet
Dog Friendly: No
Introduction:
Lisa Falls is a beautiful and easily accessible waterfall hike located in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest near Sandy, Utah. This short, family friendly trail offers a quick escape into nature with the rewarding sight of a cascading waterfall set against the backdrop of the rugged Wasatch Mountains. Perfect for a brief outing or as part of a day of exploring Little Cottonwood Canyon, Lisa Falls is a must visit destination for locals and visitors alike.
How to Get There:
To reach the Lisa Falls trailhead, start in Sandy, Utah, and head east on 9400 South, which becomes Little Cottonwood Canyon Road (UT-210). Follow Little Cottonwood Canyon Road for approximately 4.3 miles. The trailhead is located on the south side of the road, just past a small pullout parking area. The trailhead can be easy to miss, so keep an eye out for a small dirt parking area on the right side of the road as you head up the canyon.
Parking Information:
Parking for the Lisa Falls trail is available at a small, unpaved pullout along Little Cottonwood Canyon Road. The parking area is limited, with space for only a few vehicles, so it’s best to arrive early, especially on weekends and during peak hiking seasons. If the lot is full, you may need to park further down the road and walk back to the trailhead. There are no restroom facilities at the trailhead, so be sure to come prepared with everything you need for your hike.
The hike to Lisa Falls takes you through a short but scenic trail that showcases the natural beauty of Little Cottonwood Canyon. The trail begins with a gentle ascent through a wooded area, with large granite boulders and a mix of aspen and conifer trees providing shade along the way. As you approach the falls, the sound of rushing water becomes more prominent, leading you to the base of Lisa Falls. The waterfall cascades down a smooth granite rock face, creating a peaceful and stunning scene. The surrounding area is characterized by rugged cliffs and rocky outcrops, with the cool, clear water offering a refreshing retreat on a warm day.
Trail Difficulty and Length:
The Lisa Falls trail is a short and easy hike, covering approximately 0.3 miles round trip with minimal elevation gain. The trail is well-defined and easy to follow, making it suitable for hikers of all ages and fitness levels. The hike typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes to complete, depending on how much time you spend at the falls. The short distance and gentle terrain make this an ideal option for a quick hike, a family outing, or a brief stop during a day of exploring Little Cottonwood Canyon.
Dog-Friendly Information:
Lisa Falls is not dog-friendly, as Little Cottonwood Canyon is a protected watershed area, and dogs are not allowed to protect the water quality. If you’re looking to hike with your dog, consider nearby Millcreek Canyon or other dog-friendly areas outside of the watershed zones. Always check local regulations before heading out to ensure you’re following the rules.
Local Regulations:
When hiking to Lisa Falls, it’s important to follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the natural environment. This includes packing out all trash, staying on the designated trail to protect the delicate ecosystem, and respecting the local wildlife. Since the area is part of a protected watershed, no dogs are allowed, and swimming or wading in the creek is also prohibited to maintain water quality. Be sure to check for any specific regulations or trail closures before your visit, as conditions can change based on weather and other factors.
Other Trails Nearby:
If you’re looking to explore more of Little Cottonwood Canyon, several other excellent trails are located nearby. The Red Pine Lake Trail offers a more challenging hike with stunning views of alpine lakes and surrounding peaks. For a moderate hike with a rewarding destination, consider the White Pine Lake Trail, which takes you to a beautiful high altitude lake surrounded by rugged mountains. The Hidden Peak Trail, accessible from the Snowbird Resort, offers a strenuous climb with panoramic views of the Wasatch Range and the Salt Lake Valley.
Non-Hiking Attractions Nearby:
For those interested in exploring more of the region beyond hiking, the nearby town of Alta offers a range of activities during the summer and winter months. The Snowbird Resort, located further up Little Cottonwood Canyon, provides summer activities such as an aerial tram, mountain biking, and zip-lining, making it a great destination for a family day out. In the winter, both Alta and Snowbird are world-renowned ski resorts offering some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Utah. If you’re visiting in the summer, the scenic drive through Little Cottonwood Canyon offers breathtaking views and several pullouts where you can stop and take in the beauty of the area.
Accommodations: Where To Set Up Basecamp
If you’re looking for modern luxury right in the heart of downtown, the Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City is a top pick. With sweeping mountain views, stylish rooms, and an unbeatable location next to the Salt Palace Convention Center, it’s perfect for both adventurers and business travelers. You can unwind at the rooftop pool, grab a drink at the lively lobby bar, or step outside and find yourself within walking distance of Temple Square, City Creek shopping, and all the best food in town.
👉 Book your stay at Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City here and lock in the best available rates. Every booking through my link helps fuel more Unicorn Adventure road trips and photography journeys!
The Hilton Salt Lake City Center nails that classic downtown vibe with spacious rooms, great on-site dining, and a central location that makes exploring a breeze. Whether you’re catching a Broadway show at Eccles Theater, attending a convention, or heading up into the Wasatch Mountains for a quick hike, this hotel keeps you close to it all. Bonus: the indoor pool and fitness center are perfect for recharging after a long day.
👉 Reserve your room at Hilton Salt Lake City Center here and enjoy exclusive savings. Using my affiliate links directly supports my photography and storytelling while giving you the same great deals.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to hike the Lisa Falls trail is during the late spring, summer, and early fall, particularly from May to October. During the spring and early summer, the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to snowmelt from the surrounding mountains. Summer offers warm weather and lush green surroundings, making it a perfect time for a visit. Fall is also a beautiful time to hike, with the changing colors of the trees adding a golden hue to the landscape. The trail can be accessed in winter, but icy conditions may make the hike more challenging, so proper gear and caution are advised.
Support the Adventure
To make your walls less boring, check out my photography portfolio and bring a piece of the wild and my story into your home.
If you’d like to fuel future adventures, you can donate a coffee on Ko-Fi. Every cup keeps me chasing sunrises and stories.
When you shop using my affiliate links, every click helps support this blog at no extra cost to you. It’s a small way to keep Unicorn Adventure alive and kicking while I keep exploring.
Subscribe to my mailing list for future updates, new stories, and behind-the-scenes adventures.
Stay connected with me on Instagram and Facebook for more photos and daily inspiration.
Thanks for being part of the journey, Unicorn Squadron!