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.

Description of the Landscape:

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 picturesque 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.

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.