Utah Hiking Bucket List: 15 Epic Summer Hikes

Utah is a hiker's paradise, boasting some of the world's most stunning landscapes and natural wonders. From towering red rock formations to lush green forests, there's no shortage of incredible scenery to explore. And with summer just around the corner, there's no better time to plan a hiking trip to Utah.

In this blog post, we'll share our top 15 summer hikes in Utah, spanning four national parks and a national monument. Whether you're an experienced hiker or a beginner, we've got something for everyone. So grab your hiking essentials and get ready to hit the trails!

Zion National Park

The best hikes in Zion boast stunning natural formations and picturesque landscapes. This national park offers an abundance of hiking trails suitable for all levels of expertise, from beginner to advanced.

1. Angel's Landing

Angel's Landing is Zion's most famous hike, with steep switchbacks and awe-inspiring views. The final section of the trail contains a narrow ridge with sheer drop-offs on both side. It creates a challenging and exhilarating experience. The trail offers rewarding views of the Virgin River and the surrounding valley.

2. The Narrows

The Narrows is another of Zion's popular hikes, offering a unique experience of hiking through a winding canyon with towering walls. The trail passes through the Virgin River, and hikers should be prepared to get wet. This hike is perfect for adventurous hikers who want to explore the park's natural beauty up close.

3. Observation Point

Observation Point is one of the park's more challenging hikes but boasts stunning views of Zion Canyon. The trail gains over 2,000 feet in elevation over 4 miles, making it a strenuous hike. However, the sweeping vistas and unique rock formations make it a favorite among experienced hikers.

Zion National Park is a must-visit destination for hiking enthusiasts. Ensure that you carry essential hiking gear, including plenty of water, sunscreen, and appropriate footwear to stay safe on the trail.

Need some other family-friendly activities for your stay? Check out the Best Fun and Family-Friendly Summer Activities in Park City, Utah!

Arches National Park

Arches National Park is located in southeastern Utah and is known for its unique sandstone formations, including over 2,000 natural arches. With a range of trails from easy strolls to strenuous hikes, Arches offers something for everyone.

4. Delicate Arch

Delicate Arch is the most famous and recognizable landmark in Arches National Park. The trail is 3 miles round-trip and includes a steep climb to the top of a slickrock ridge. The trail offers incredible views of the arch and surrounding landscape, particularly at sunset.

5. Landscape Arch

Landscape Arch is the longest natural arch in the park and is located in the Devils Garden area. The trail to the arch is an easy 1.6-mile round-trip hike. It’s perfect for families with children or those looking for a leisurely stroll.

6. Fiery Furnace

The Fiery Furnace is a challenging hike that requires a permit. But, it offers a unique opportunity to explore the park's labyrinthine canyon country. The hike is 2-3 miles long and involves scrambling over rocks, through narrow passageways, and up steep inclines. It's recommended to go with a ranger or an experienced guide for safety.

Arches National Park offers a unique hiking experience for visitors to Utah. Be sure to bring plenty of water, sun protection, and sturdy shoes, particularly for the Fiery Furnace hike.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is located in southern Utah. It’s well-known for its distinctive hoodoo rock formations and incredible panoramic views. With its high elevation, Bryce offers cooler temperatures and unique hiking opportunities.

7. Navajo Loop Trail

The Navajo Loop Trail is a popular hike in Bryce Canyon, offering stunning views of the hoodoos and surrounding canyon. The trail is 1.3 miles long and features switchbacks, narrow passages, and incredible rock formations. It's recommended to go clockwise on the trail for the best views.

8. Fairyland Loop Trail

The Fairyland Loop Trail is a less crowded but equally beautiful hike in Bryce Canyon. The trail is 8 miles long, offering stunning views of the hoodoos, canyons, and the distant peaks of the Henry Mountains. The trail is considered moderate to strenuous and is recommended for experienced hikers.

9. Rim Trail

The Rim Trail in Bryce Canyon can be treated as a leisurely stroll around the canyon rim. Yet, it offers incredible panoramic views of the park's unique landscape. The trail is 5.5 miles long and offers multiple overlooks and photo opportunities along the way. It's the perfect hike for visitors of all skill levels.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a must-visit destination for hikers looking for unique landscapes and breathtaking views. Remember to bring plenty of water, sun protection, and appropriate footwear, particularly for the Fairyland Loop Trail.

Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands National Park is located in southeastern Utah and offers a unique combination of rugged canyons, towering mesas, and flowing rivers. With over 337,000 acres of wilderness to explore, Canyonlands offers a wide range of hiking experiences.

10. Mesa Arch Trail

The Mesa Arch Trail is a short and stunning hike in Canyonlands with panoramic views of the surrounding canyons and mesas. The trail is only 0.5 miles long but features a steep drop-off and requires careful footing. It's recommended to go early in the morning for the best lighting and photo opportunities.

11. Grand View Point Trail

The Grand View Point Trail is a moderate hike that offers breathtaking views of the park's rugged terrain. The trail is 2 miles long, leading to a breathtaking overlook of the canyons and the La Sal Mountains in the distance. It's the perfect hike for visitors of all skill levels.

12. Syncline Loop Trail

The Syncline Loop Trail is a challenging hike that offers a unique opportunity to explore the park's rugged backcountry. The trail is 8.3 miles long and features steep inclines, narrow passes, and rocky terrain. It's recommended to go with a ranger or an experienced guide for safety.

Canyonlands National Park offers a rugged and unique hiking experience for visitors to Utah. Be sure to bring plenty of water, sun protection, and appropriate footwear, particularly for the Syncline Loop Trail. Don't forget to check the weather conditions and park alerts before embarking on any hike.

Looking for even more exciting trails? Check out The 7 Best ATV Trails in Utah!

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is a vast and rugged wilderness area in southern Utah. With its red rock canyons, towering cliffs, and unique geological formations, Grand Staircase-Escalante is a hiker's paradise.

13. Lower Calf Creek Falls Trail

The Lower Calf Creek Falls Trail leads to an awesome waterfall and swimming hole. The trail is 6 miles long and offers beautiful views of the surrounding canyon and red rock formations. It's recommended to go early in the morning or late in the day to avoid the heat.

14. Zebra Slot Canyon Trail

The Zebra Slot Canyon Trail offers the chance to explore a narrow, twisting canyon with striped walls. The trail is 5 miles long and requires some scrambling and climbing, but the views are well worth the effort. It's recommended to go with an experienced guide or with good navigation skills.

15. Willis Creek Narrows Trail

The Willis Creek Narrows Trail is another beautiful slot canyon hike in Grand Staircase-Escalante. The trail is 4.4 miles long and features beautiful red rock formations, a flowing creek, and narrow canyon walls. It's a relatively easy hike and is suitable for visitors of all skill levels.

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument offers some of the most unique hiking experiences for Utah adventurists. it is a must-see for those chasing the best Utah outdoor adventures. Remember to bring plenty of water, sun protection, and appropriate footwear, particularly for the Zebra Slot Canyon Trail. Always check the weather conditions and trail status before embarking on any hike.

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Utah is a hiker's dream destination, with some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes in the world. From the towering peaks of the Wasatch Range to the red rock canyons of southern Utah, there's no shortage of epic hikes to explore.

We hope this guide has helped you explore the best hikes in Utah. Don't hesitate to reach out to us at Daniels Summit Lodge if you want to find lodging or summer activities to accompany your hiking adventures. And most importantly, have fun exploring the great outdoors of Utah!