Quick Facts:

Location: Little Cottonwood Canyon, near Salt Lake City, Utah

Coordinates: 40.575471063286834, -111.68094638624962

Length: 2.2 Miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 500 Feet

Dog Friendly: No

Introduction:

Gloria Falls, in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest near Salt Lake City, Utah, is a hidden gem that offers hikers a serene and picturesque experience. This relatively short and accessible hike leads you through beautiful alpine terrain to a stunning waterfall, making it a perfect outing for families, beginners, and anyone looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the Wasatch Mountains. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape or a quick outdoor adventure, the hike to Gloria Falls provides an unforgettable experience in one of Utah’s most scenic areas.

How to Get There:

Gloria Falls is located in Little Cottonwood Canyon, a short drive from Salt Lake City. To reach the trailhead, take I-215 to Exit 6 (6200 South/Canyon Exit) and head east on 6200 South, which becomes UT-210 (Little Cottonwood Canyon Road). Continue driving up Little Cottonwood Canyon for about 6 miles until you reach the White Pine Trailhead, located on the right side of the road. The drive from Salt Lake City takes about 30 minutes, making it an easy and convenient option for a quick nature getaway.

Parking Information:

Parking for the Gloria Falls hike is available at the White Pine Trailhead, which is shared with several other popular trails in the area, including the White Pine Lake and Red Pine Lake trails. The parking lot is well-maintained but can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak hiking season in the summer. Arriving early in the morning is recommended to secure a spot and to enjoy the trail before it gets crowded. There are no fees for parking at the trailhead, and restrooms are available.

Description of the Landscape:

The hike to Gloria Falls offers a beautiful journey through the lush, forested landscape of Little Cottonwood Canyon. The trail begins at the White Pine Trailhead and initially follows the well-traveled White Pine Lake Trail. You’ll be surrounded by tall pines, aspens, and dense undergrowth, creating a peaceful and shaded environment. The sound of the nearby Little Cottonwood Creek adds to the tranquil atmosphere as you make your way up the canyon.

After about a mile on the White Pine Lake Trail, you’ll reach a junction where a smaller, unmarked trail veers off to the left toward Gloria Falls. The trail becomes narrower and more rugged as you approach the falls, with some rocky sections that require careful footing. The forest begins to thin, and you’ll soon hear the sound of rushing water as you near the falls.

Gloria Falls is a beautiful cascade that tumbles down a rocky cliff face, surrounded by lush greenery and wildflowers in the summer. The falls are especially impressive in the spring and early summer when snowmelt from the surrounding peaks feeds the creek. The area around the falls is perfect for relaxing, taking photos, and enjoying the cool, refreshing air before heading back down the trail.

Trail Difficulty and Length:

The hike to Gloria Falls is moderately easy, making it suitable for hikers of most skill levels, including families with children. The round trip is approximately 2.2 miles, with an elevation gain of about 500 feet. While the trail is generally well-marked and maintained, the final approach to the falls involves some rocky and uneven terrain, so good footwear is recommended. Most hikers can complete the round trip in 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on their pace and how long they spend at the falls.

Dog-Friendly Information:

Gloria Falls is located in Little Cottonwood Canyon, where dogs are not allowed on the trails. This restriction is in place to protect the watershed that provides drinking water to the Salt Lake Valley. If you’re hiking with a dog, consider exploring dog-friendly trails in nearby Big Cottonwood Canyon or Mill Creek Canyon, where pets are welcome on most trails. Always check local regulations before heading out to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Local Regulations:

When hiking to Gloria Falls, it’s important to follow local regulations to help preserve the natural beauty of the area. Stay on designated trails to minimize your impact on the environment, and avoid disturbing the local wildlife. As with all trails in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, practice “Leave No Trace” principles by carrying out all trash, respecting other hikers, and leaving the landscape as you found it. The trail can be busy, especially during peak times, so be courteous and share the trail with others.

Other Trails Nearby:

If you’re looking to explore more of Little Cottonwood Canyon after visiting Gloria Falls, there are several other trails nearby that offer a variety of experiences. The White Pine Lake Trail continues past the Gloria Falls junction and leads to a stunning alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks, offering a longer and more challenging hike. The Red Pine Lake Trail is another popular option, providing access to a beautiful glacial lake and the option to continue to the Pfeifferhorn, one of the most iconic peaks in the Wasatch Range. For a shorter, easier hike, the Lisa Falls Trail offers a quick and scenic walk to another beautiful waterfall in the canyon.

Non-Hiking Attractions Nearby:

In addition to hiking, the area around Little Cottonwood Canyon and Salt Lake City offers a variety of attractions for visitors. Alta Ski Area and Snowbird are located further up the canyon and are popular destinations for skiing in the winter and mountain biking, and scenic tram rides in the summer. In nearby Sandy, you’ll find shopping, dining, and entertainment options, including the South Towne Center and Rio Tinto Stadium, home to Real Salt Lake. For those interested in history and culture, Temple Square and the Natural History Museum of Utah in Salt Lake City offer fascinating insights into the region’s heritage and natural history.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to hike to Gloria Falls is during the late spring, summer, and early fall when the trail is free of snow and the waterfall is at its most impressive. Spring and early summer are particularly beautiful, with blooming wildflowers and a full-flowing waterfall. Fall offers cooler temperatures and the opportunity to see the changing colors of the leaves, making for a picturesque hike. Winter hikes are not recommended due to deep snow and the potential for icy conditions on the trail.