Top 10 Utah Hikes (So far)

My passion for the outdoors began in my Boy Scout days, spending countless weekends camping and hiking in Utah’s wild beauty. As a young adult, I still loved hiking, but it often took a back seat to my artistic and musical pursuits — and I struggled to find friends who shared the same enthusiasm for the trail.

Over time, I found a vibrant community of hikers and trail runners here in Utah — friends who share the joy of exploring the mountains, deserts, and canyons, both here at home and around the world.

It wasn’t until later in life that hiking and trail running returned to center stage. Thanks to family members who reawakened my love for the outdoors, I dove back in. Over time, I found a vibrant community of hikers and trail runners here in Utah — friends who share the joy of exploring the mountains, deserts, and canyons, both here at home and around the world.

After moving back from Colorado seven years ago, my appreciation for Utah’s natural beauty only deepened. I’ve hiked, run, and snowboarded my way across the Wasatch Front, ventured into the West Desert, climbed through the High Uintas, and discovered the wonders of Southern Utah’s canyons.

While my list will always be evolving, these are my favorite 10 Utah adventures so far:

• 1- Mount Timpanogos. My number one. I grew up under this mountain and will always love it. The summit trail runs all the way to the top, making it accessible for many abilities — and a dream for runners who want a speedy ascent.
• 2- South Thunder Mountain. Starting at Bell Canyon in Sandy, this route passes the lower and upper falls, the reservoir, and beyond. After that, its meadows and boulders to the summit. Long, challenging, and best for advanced hikers. A GPS watch or route app is highly recommended.
• 3- Lone Peak. South Thunder’s southern neighbor. Similar difficulty, with meadow and boulder navigation and no obvious trail in the upper parts of the hike. The summit features sheer drops on both sides — not for the faint of heart. Again, follow a preloaded route.
• 4- Horsetail Falls. A family-friendly hike in Alpine with a bit of challenge. The payoff? Stunning, refreshing falls that make every step worth it.
• 5- Lake Blanche. Gorgeous views of the lake, surrounding peaks, and city below. Best to go on a weekday or early Sunday morning to avoid the heavy crowds.
• 6- Deseret Peak. A bit of a drive past Tooele, but worth every mile. Meadows, forests, streams, boulder fields, and sweeping 360° views of Utah from the summit.
• 7- Frary Peak. The highest point on Antelope Island. A fun, runnable trail with incredible views — but go in late fall, late winter or early spring to avoid the bugs. Watch out for bison; they’re big but generally docile.
• 8- Ben Lomond & Willard Peak. A 20-mile day with two peaks for the price of one. Gradual and runnable for much of the way, with Ben Lomond en route to Willard.
• 9- Buckskin Gulch to Wire Pass Trail & The Tee Pees. Near Kanab, this shares a trailhead with the famous “Wave” but offers equally stunning scenery without the permit hassle. Cross into northern Arizona to see the striking Tee Pee rock formations.
• 10- Coyote Gulch. A Southern Utah gem near Escalante. Getting in normally requires teamwork for a safe descent, but the canyon is breathtaking. Bring hiking sandals for cool stream crossings. The climb out is steep and hot — ropes are usually there to help.

Utah will never run out of wild places to discover. My list will keep evolving, but these spots will always hold a special place in my heart.

Happy hiking! #yodalayheehoo