Looking for a quick outdoor escape with a high reward? These seven waterfall hikes are all located within 30 minutes of Salt Lake City. They are perfect for families, beginners, or anyone needing a “nature fix” without a full day’s commitment.
1. Gloria Falls
This is a hidden gem that truly shines during the spring runoff. While the hike is relatively simple, the lack of signage makes it an adventure.
Restrictions: No dogs allowed (Watershed).
Distance: 2.3 miles roundtrip
Location: Little Cottonwood Canyon (White Pine/Red Pine Trailhead)
Trail Tip: Follow signs for Red Pine Lake. After crossing the first bridge, look for an immediate left onto a smaller, unpaved path that hugs the stream.
2. Lisa Falls
Short, sweet, and unique because the water slides down a slanted rock face.
Restrictions: No dogs allowed.
Distance: 0.3 miles roundtrip
Location: Little Cottonwood Canyon
Trail Tip: Use Google Maps to find the roadside pull-off, as there is no official trailhead sign.
3. Hidden Falls
True to its name, this falls is tucked away right across from a popular canyon curve.
Restrictions: No dogs allowed.
Distance: 300 feet roundtrip
Location: Big Cottonwood Canyon (The “S-Curve”)
Trail Tip: Park at the S-curve lot and carefully cross the main road to find the stairs leading to the falls.
4. Donut Falls
A local favorite where the water drops through a circular hole in the roof of a cave.
Restrictions: No dogs allowed.
Distance: 1.5 miles from the trailhead (3.5 miles if the lower gate is closed)
Location: Big Cottonwood Canyon
Trail Tip: There is a rock scramble at the end to see the “donut” up close. For those with small children, the view from the stream base is still spectacular and much safer.
5. Rocky Mouth Falls
A unique neighborhood-access trail that feels like a secret passage to a 70-foot drop.
Restrictions: No dogs allowed.
Distance: 0.7 miles roundtrip
Location: Sandy (11300 S Wasatch Blvd)
Trail Tip: Please respect the residents by parking only in the designated lot on Wasatch Blvd, not in the neighborhood streets.
6. Lower Adam's Falls
While most people head to the much longer Upper Falls, this lower section offers a similar reward for a fraction of the effort.
Restrictions: Dogs are allowed!
Distance: 1 mile roundtrip
Location: Layton (Eastside Drive)
Trail Tip: Look for the small trail branching to the right just before the wooden bench on the main path.
Dogs allowed – Bonus!
7. Heugh’s Canyon Waterfall
A slightly more “moderate” choice for those looking to get their heart rate up.
Restrictions: Dogs are allowed!
Distance: 3.4 miles roundtrip
Location: Holladay (Heughs Canyon Cir)
Trail Tip: Prepare for a steep final stretch and a small boulder field just before you reach the falls.
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