Introduction:
Salt Lake City, surrounded by the stunning Wasatch Mountains, is the perfect starting point for exploring some of the best waterfalls in Utah. Whether you’re after an easy stroll to a family-friendly cascade or a challenging hike that ends with a roaring waterfall tucked deep in the canyon, there’s something here for every kind of adventurer.
This guide to the top waterfalls near Salt Lake City will give you everything you need to plan your trip. You’ll find details on the best times to visit, trail difficulty, and tips on what to expect once you arrive. From hidden gems in Big Cottonwood Canyon to iconic favorites just a short drive from downtown, these waterfalls showcase Utah’s natural beauty at its finest.
1. Stewart Falls
Location: Near Sundance in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest
Landscape Description: Stewart Falls boasts a dramatic backdrop of Mount Timpanogos, with a two-tiered cascade that drops 200 feet into a crystal-clear pool.
Trail Difficulty and Length: Moderate; 3.5 miles round-trip with 700 feet elevation gain.
Dog-Friendly: Yes, dogs on leashes are allowed.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall, offering robust water flow and clear trails.
2. Donut Falls
Location: Big Cottonwood Canyon
Landscape Description: Named for the hole at the waterfall’s base, where water plunges through surrounded by thick forest.
Trail Difficulty and Length: Easy; 1.5 miles round-trip, ideal for families.
Dog-Friendly: No, due to watershed restrictions.
Best Time to Visit: Summer months, when the trail is snow-free.
3. Lower Falls via Bell Canyon Trail
Location: Just above Sandy, at the base of the Wasatch Range
Landscape Description: Set in a scenic canyon adorned with wildflowers and pine trees, with the waterfall’s sound beckoning hikers.
Trail Difficulty and Length: Hard; 5 miles from the trailhead with 1,500 feet elevation gain.
Dog-Friendly: No, due to watershed restrictions.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and early summer, with high water levels from the snowmelt.
4. Battle Creek Falls
Location: Pleasant Grove
Landscape Description: The waterfall tumbles down rocky terrain into a small, inviting pool.
Trail Difficulty and Length: Easy to moderate; 4 miles roundtrip with 1,800 feet elevation gain.
Dog-Friendly: Yes, dogs on leashes are welcome.
Best Time to Visit: Spring to fall, for cooler hikes and vibrant water flow.
5. Grotto Falls
Location: Uinta National Forest, near Payson, Utah
Landscape Description: A short, enchanting trail leads to a small, secluded waterfall cascading into a serene pool.
Trail Difficulty and Length: Easy; 0.6 miles round trip, with an additional 6 miles if winter road closures occur.
Dog-Friendly: Yes, on a leash.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall, when water levels are highest.
6. Bridal Veil Falls
Location: Provo Canyon
Landscape Description: A multi-tiered waterfall with a misty spray resembling a bride’s veil, dropping over 600 feet.
Trail Difficulty and Length: Very easy; accessible via a paved pathway less than half a mile long.
Dog-Friendly: Yes, on a leash.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with spring being particularly striking.
7. Upper Provo River Falls
Location: Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest
Landscape Description: A series of small cascades along the Upper Provo River, each creating a unique, picturesque setting.
Trail Difficulty and Length: Easy; viewable from the roadside with minor walking required.
Dog-Friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed.
Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall for the best water levels and weather.
8. Lisa Falls
Location: Little Cottonwood Canyon
Landscape Description: A uniquely vertical waterfall, popular among rock climbers.
Trail Difficulty and Length: Easy; a short 0.25-mile trek from the road.
Dog-Friendly: No, due to watershed rules.
Best Time to Visit: Summer, when the waterfall is flowing and trails are clear.
9. Waterfall Canyon
Location: Near Ogden, Utah
Landscape Description: The trail leads to a stunning 200-foot waterfall, offering dramatic views against the rugged backdrop of Waterfall Canyon.
Trail Difficulty and Length: Moderate to challenging; approximately 2.4 miles round trip with 1,100 feet elevation gain.
Dog-Friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed on a leash.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall, for active waterfalls and favorable weather.
10. Horsetail Falls
Location: Alpine
Landscape Description: This striking waterfall plunges dramatically over a rugged cliff in a thin, powerful stream.
Trail Difficulty and Length: Challenging; around 4 miles round-trip with 1,300 feet elevation gain.
Dog-Friendly: Yes, dogs on leashes are allowed.
Best Time to Visit: Early summer to enjoy the waterfall at its fullest after the snowmelt.
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