10 Best Utah Hikes for Winter: Scenic Trails for Families and Adventurers Alike
Hiking Utah’s Winter Trails: A Family Tradition
My love for winter hiking in Utah started with a rather challenging first adventure—snowshoeing with my daughter when she was just four years old. She was bundled up, excited to be out in the snow, but after about ten feet, she fell down, overwhelmed by the oversized snowshoes. Tears came quickly, and I wondered if we’d even make it to the trailhead. But that first attempt was just the beginning. Over the years, winter hiking has become a cherished family tradition. Now, not only my daughter but also my two sons look forward to our snowy hikes each winter, and it’s become a season we all treasure.
Why Winter Hiking in Utah is Perfect for Families
Hiking in Utah during the winter is an incredible way to experience the beauty of the outdoors together. It’s free, requires minimal gear, and offers a refreshing break from the endless screens and indoor activities that can take over in colder months. Just stepping outside, breathing the crisp winter air, and immersing ourselves in nature provides a much-needed escape and allows us to reset as a family. In Utah, there are plenty of family-friendly trails that are accessible and beautiful in winter, whether you’re tackling a full hike or simply going as far as the kids’ energy will allow.
Health Benefits of Winter Hiking
Winter hiking brings its own unique health benefits, especially for families. Walking through snowy trails not only burns calories but also strengthens muscles as you navigate varied terrain, building both stamina and coordination. Being outdoors in the winter sunlight improves mood, boosts Vitamin D, and helps everyone feel more energized during a time of year when it’s easy to feel cooped up. Additionally, spending time outside strengthens the immune system and gives the family a healthy way to spend quality time together.
Escaping the Inversion and Breathing Fresh Air
One of the hidden perks of winter hiking in Utah is that getting up into the canyons allows us to escape the inversion that often settles over Salt Lake and Utah County during the winter months. The higher altitude offers fresh air, a clear sky, and sometimes even sunshine, which can be rare in the valley during winter. This alone makes it worth bundling up and heading out.
Winter Hiking Gear Essentials for Families
The right gear can make all the difference in enjoying a winter hike as a family. Layering is key in cold weather and a pair of insulated snow boots or waterproof boots is also essential to keep feet warm and dry. Costco is a great place to pick up affordable winter hiking essentials like base layers, snow pants, gloves, coats and, at times, even hiking boots.
In the beginning, when we hiked in the winter, we relied on snowshoes. However, we shifted towards using ice cleats or crampons. They are less bulky compared to snowshoes and provide superior traction on hard-packed trails. Most winter trails become compacted due to regular use, making crampons more effective and efficient for our hikes. The enhanced grip allows us to navigate icy or uneven surfaces with increased confidence and stability.
If you want to try snowshoeing, I suggest renting gear from BYU Outdoors Unlimited. It’s inexpensive and located near great hiking trails.
Crampons/Ice Cleats
Top 10 Family-Friendly Winter Trails in Utah
With so many family-friendly trails to choose from, finding a great winter hike is easy. Below I have listed 10 of my favorite trails for winter hiking with the family, each offering unique scenery, manageable distances, and the chance for everyone to enjoy a little winter adventure together. Whether you’re a seasoned winter hiker or trying it out for the first time, these trails provide a perfect setting to make memories and enjoy Utah’s winter landscapes.
1. Battle Creek Falls
Location: Pleasant Grove
Trail Length: 1.8 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Family-Friendly: Yes
Description: A family favorite trail that’s perfect for little ones. This short, easy trail leads to a beautiful waterfall that’s especially picturesque in fall and winter. After reaching the waterfall, you can continue hiking up the canyon which is especially beautiful when covered in snow. Winter conditions can make the trail icy, so microspikes are recommended.
2. Little Mill Campground
Location: American Fork Canyon
Trail Length: 2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Family Friendly: Yes
Description: Snowshoes are required after the second gate which is one mile from the trailhead. This is a family favorite winter trail when the canyon is covered in a beautiful sheet of snow. We rarely hiked very far since my kids always got distracted by playing in the deep piles of snow along the trail.
3. Tibble Fork Loop Trail
Location: American Fork Canyon
Trail Length: 4.2 miles loop
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Family Friendly: Yes
Description: This trail offers a scenic 4-mile loop surrounded by beautiful alpine landscapes. While hiking with kids we enjoyed the trail's picturesque views and the soothing sounds of nearby streams. We never completed the entire loop, as we turned back when the kids were ready, but the experience was enjoyable and memorable as we explored the trail and embraced the natural beauty along the way.
4. The Grotto Trail
Location: Payson Canyon
Trail Length: 0.6 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Family-Friendly: Yes
Description: This short trail to a picturesque waterfall, is a perfect fall hike for families with young children. But during winter the road to the trailhead becomes impassable a few miles from the trailhead. You can park your car on the side of the road and hike the rest of the way. The hike is longer and more strenuous (best suited for older children) but worth seeing the frozen waterfall. It’s a magical sight.
5. Stewart Falls
Location: Sundance
Trail Length: 3.5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Family-Friendly: Yes
Description: One of Utah County’s most beloved waterfalls, Stewart Falls is beautiful year-round. In winter, the trail may require snowshoes, but it’s an enchanting trek through snowy woods with the waterfall often frozen into stunning icicles.
6. Fifth Water Hot Springs (Diamond Fork Hot Pots)
Location: Spanish Fork Canyon
Trail Length: 4.5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Family-Friendly: Yes, but supervise young children due to water temperatures
Description: This is a must-do fall and winter adventure! The trail leads to natural hot springs, offering warm pools set against snow-covered rocks in winter. The hike is moderately challenging with a slight elevation gain, making it a perfect place to soak after a chilly trek. The trail is icy during the winter months, so microspikes can be helpful.
7. Hike the Y
Location: Provo
Trail Length: 2.3 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Family-Friendly: Suitable for older children
Description: Not the most picturesque hike on my list, but one I try to experience a few times each winter. The trail is easy to get to making it a great option. The steep incline is challenging but not too hard. And I have met the friendliest people on the trail.
8. Bells Canyon Trail to Lower Falls
Location: Sandy
Trail Length: 4.8 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Family-Friendly: Suitable for older children
Description: The Bells Canyon Trail is a popular hiking destination in Utah, known for its stunning scenery and access to a frozen waterfall during winter months. The trail begins at the Bells Canyon parking area and winds through a picturesque canyon. The journey culminates at the frozen waterfall, which creates a captivating sight of ice cascading down the rocky cliffs, making it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike.
9. Rock Canyon Trail
Location: Provo
Trail Length: 5.7 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Family-Friendly: Yes
Description: Rock Canyon is a versatile trail that winds through towering cliffs and boulders. Families can enjoy shorter portions, while more experienced hikers can continue toward higher elevations. Winter brings a quiet, snowy atmosphere, but watch for icy sections.
10. Horsetail Falls
Location: Alpine
Trail Length: 4 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Family-Friendly: Suitable for older children
Description: Horsetail Falls is a stunning natural feature nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of the Wasatch Range. During the winter months, the waterfall transforms into a captivating frozen spectacle, with ice cascading down the rock face, creating intricate formations. Be aware of potential icy conditions.
Embracing Utah’s Winter Trails as a Family
Winter hiking in Utah has become one of our family’s most beloved traditions, allowing us to connect and with nature in a season that often keeps people indoors. With an adventurous spirit, and the incredible beauty of Utah’s snowy landscapes, winter hiking offers families a way to stay active, escape the everyday routine, and explore some of the most breathtaking trails in the state.
Whether you’re just starting or have made winter hiking a regular activity, each adventure brings its memories, fresh air, and the satisfaction of tackling winter’s challenges together. So bundle up, and get ready to make the most of Utah’s winter wonderland with the ones you love!
Stewart Falls