Quick Facts:

Location: Big Cottonwood Canyon

Coordinates: 40.647582585955035, -111.64805226736401

Length: 1.5 Miles

Difficulty: Easy

Elevation Gain: 300 Feet

Dog Friendly: No

Introduction:

Donut Falls is one of the most popular and family-friendly hikes in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest near Salt Lake City, Utah. This short and relatively easy trail leads to a unique and picturesque waterfall where water cascades through a hole in the rock, creating the illusion of a “donut” effect. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Donut Falls offers an accessible and rewarding outdoor adventure, perfect for hikers of all ages and skill levels.

How to Get There:

To reach the Donut Falls trailhead, start in Salt Lake City and head south on I-215. Take exit 6 for 6200 South and continue east on 6200 South, which becomes Wasatch Boulevard. Follow Wasatch Boulevard until you reach the entrance to Big Cottonwood Canyon. Continue up Big Cottonwood Canyon Road (UT-190) for approximately 9 miles. The trailhead parking area is located just past the Jordan Pines Picnic Area on the left side of the road. Look for signs directing you to the Donut Falls Trailhead.

Parking Information:

Parking for Donut Falls is available at the designated trailhead parking lot. The parking area is relatively large, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during the peak hiking season in the summer. Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon can help you avoid the crowds and secure a parking spot. If the lot is full, additional parking may be available along the road, but be sure to follow any posted parking regulations to avoid fines. There are portable restrooms available at the trailhead, but no other facilities, so come prepared.

Description of the Landscape:

The hike to Donut Falls takes you through the stunning landscape of Big Cottonwood Canyon, known for its lush forests, towering peaks, and clear mountain streams. The trail begins with a gentle ascent through a dense forest of aspen and pine trees, providing ample shade and a cool, refreshing atmosphere. As you continue, the trail follows a meandering creek, with occasional views of the surrounding mountains. The final stretch of the hike involves a short scramble over rocks to reach the base of Donut Falls. The waterfall itself is a unique and mesmerizing sight, where water flows through a circular hole in the rock, creating a “donut” shape before cascading into the pool below. The area around the falls is shaded and cool, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the canyon.

Trail Difficulty and Length:

The Donut Falls trail is approximately 1.5 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of about 200 feet, making it a relatively easy hike suitable for hikers of all ages and fitness levels. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, with a gentle incline that makes it accessible for families with children. The final approach to the waterfall involves a bit of scrambling over rocks, which can be slippery, so caution is advised, especially if the rocks are wet. The hike typically takes about 1 to 2 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how long you spend enjoying the falls.

Dog-Friendly Information:

Donut Falls is not dog-friendly, as Big 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 Donut 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 prevent erosion, 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 and waterfall 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 Big Cottonwood Canyon, several other excellent trails are located nearby. The Lake Blanche Trail offers a more challenging hike with stunning views of a beautiful alpine lake and Sundial Peak. For a moderate hike with a rewarding destination, consider the Twin Lakes Trail, which provides access to a scenic overlook of the Twin Lakes Reservoir. The Willow Heights Trail is another great option for a shorter hike, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and a peaceful, forested setting.

Non-Hiking Attractions Nearby:

For those interested in exploring more of the region beyond hiking, the nearby town of Brighton offers a range of activities during the summer and winter months. The Silver Lake Visitor Center, located at the top of Big Cottonwood Canyon, provides educational exhibits about the area’s natural history and wildlife, making it a great stop for families and nature enthusiasts. During the winter, Brighton Ski Resort offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Utah, as well as opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The scenic drive through Big Cottonwood Canyon also offers breathtaking views and several pullouts where you can stop and take in the beauty of the area.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to hike the Donut 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.