Quick Facts:

Location: Near Pleasant Grove, Utah 

Coordinates: 40.36299843978675, -111.70056371999534

Length: 1.5 Miles

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate 

Elevation Gain: 500 Feet

Dog Friendly: Yes

Introduction:

Battle Creek Falls is a picturesque waterfall nestled in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest near Pleasant Grove, Utah. This popular hike offers stunning views, a refreshing waterfall, and a relatively easy trail, making it a favorite for families, dog owners, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re looking for a quick escape into nature or a peaceful spot to relax by the falls, Battle Creek Falls is an ideal destination.

How to Get There:

Battle Creek Falls is located near the town of Pleasant Grove, about 35 miles south of Salt Lake City, Utah. To reach the trailhead, take I-15 south from Salt Lake City and exit at Pleasant Grove/Lindon (Exit 275). Head east on Pleasant Grove Boulevard, and continue straight as it becomes 200 South. Turn right onto 100 East, then left onto 200 South/Battle Creek Drive. Follow this road until it ends at the Kiwanis Park parking area, which serves as the trailhead for Battle Creek Falls.

Parking Information:

Parking for Battle Creek Falls is available at the Kiwanis Park parking lot, located at the end of Battle Creek Drive. The parking area is moderately sized, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. If the lot is full, there is additional parking available along the residential streets nearby. Please be mindful of local residents and park only in designated areas. The trailhead is clearly marked, and restrooms are available at the park.

Description of the Landscape:

The hike to Battle Creek Falls takes you through a scenic canyon with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lush vegetation. The trail follows Battle Creek, a small, clear stream that cascades down the canyon, eventually leading to the impressive 50-foot waterfall. The landscape is a mix of dense forest, open meadows, and rugged cliffs, offering a variety of scenery along the way. As you approach the falls, the sound of rushing water grows louder, and you’ll soon be greeted by the sight of the waterfall tumbling over a rocky cliff into a shallow pool below. The area around the falls is shaded and cool, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Trail Difficulty and Length:

The Battle Creek Falls trail is considered an easy to moderate hike, suitable for hikers of all ages and abilities. The trail is about 1.5 miles round-trip, with an elevation gain of approximately 500 feet. The path is well-maintained and easy to follow, though it does include some rocky sections and a few short, steep inclines. The hike typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the falls.

Is Battle Creek Falls Dog-Friendly?

Yes, the Battle Creek 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 moderate difficulty and relatively short length make it a great option for hiking with your canine companion. Be sure to bring plenty of water for both you and your dog, especially during the warmer months, as the trail can get hot and there are limited areas of shade. Additionally, please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the trail clean and enjoyable for everyone.

Local Regulations:

When hiking to Battle Creek Falls, 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 trail can be busy, so be courteous to other hikers, and yield to those going uphill. Pack out all trash and dispose of it properly. Fires are not allowed along the trail or at the falls, so please refrain from bringing any fire-starting materials. Lastly, be aware that the trail can become slippery near the waterfall, especially after rain, so use caution when approaching the falls.

Other Nearby Trails:

If you’re looking to explore more of the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, there are several other trails nearby worth considering. The Grove Creek Canyon Trail, located just north of Battle Creek Canyon, offers a more challenging hike with stunning views of Mount Timpanogos and the surrounding area. The Dry Canyon Trail is another nearby option, providing access to a variety of hiking and mountain biking routes. For those seeking a longer adventure, the Timpooneke Trailhead, which leads to the summit of Mount Timpanogos, is just a short drive away.

Non-Hiking Attractions Nearby:

In addition to hiking, the Pleasant Grove area offers a variety of other attractions and activities. The nearby town of Pleasant Grove is home to the historic Pleasant Grove Library and the Discovery Park, a popular destination for families with children. For those interested in local history, the John Hutchings Museum of Natural History in Lehi provides fascinating exhibits on the region’s history and natural environment. If you’re visiting during the summer, be sure to check out the Strawberry Days Festival, a local event featuring parades, rodeos, and plenty of delicious strawberry treats.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to hike Battle Creek Falls is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when temperatures are mild and the trail is less crowded. In spring, the waterfall is at its most impressive, fueled by snowmelt from the surrounding mountains. Summer can be hot, especially during the middle of the day, so plan to hike early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the heat. Winter offers a quieter experience, but the trail can be icy and slippery, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear and take extra caution.