Best backpacking hiking trails in Utah
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Best backpacking hiking trails in Utah

Got your backpack ready? These multi-day trails are perfect for hardcore adventurers looking to carry everything they need for an extended journey into the wild.

Here are some great trails to explore in Utah.

Most popular trails

1

Extra Difficult

Hayduke Trail

Grand County, Utah · star 5.0 (10) · 1345.3 km · Est. 2 mth 0 day

2

Extra Difficult

Uinta Highline Trail

Daggett County, Utah · star 4.0 (7) · 172.4 km · Est. 8 day

3

Extra Difficult

Zion Traverse

Washington County, Utah · star 5.0 (10) · 76.6 km · Est. 3 day

4

Medium

Fish and Owl Loop

San Juan County, Utah · star 5.0 (10) · 23.8 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

5

Medium

Under The Rim Trail

Garfield County, Utah · star 5.0 (7) · 47.2 km · Est. 2 day

6

Medium

Smithfield Canyon Trail and Tony Grove Lake

Cache County, Utah · star 4.0 (11) · 23.6 km · Est. 1 day 2 hrs

7

Medium

Buckskin Gulch Trail and Paria River Trail

Kane County, Utah · star 4.0 (19) · 22.6 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

8

Easy

Red Castle Lake via East Fork Smiths Fork Trail

Summit County, Utah · star 5.0 (16) · 37.0 km · Est. 1 day 3 hrs

9

Medium

East Shingle Creek Lake via Shingle Creek Trail

Summit County, Utah · star 5.0 (19) · 19.4 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

10

Difficult

Deer Creek Dry Creek Trail

Utah County, Utah · star 5.0 (22) · 16.3 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

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Reviews for backpacking hiking trails in Utah

Solène Lemaire avatar

Hayduke Trail

Solène Lemaire · reviewed over 4 years ago

star star star star star

Florian Hahn avatar

Uinta Highline Trail

Florian Hahn · reviewed almost 5 years ago

star star star star star

Claire Garcia avatar

Zion Traverse

Claire Garcia · reviewed over 4 years ago

star star star star star

BP avatar

Fish and Owl Loop

BP · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Have hiked some in the Cedar Mesa area but not this trail yet. I'm writing mainly to point out that the ruins in a photo present in March 2023 are not on this trail. It is House on Fire, so the other 3 photos may not be on this trail either. One or two definitely look suspect.

Sammy Gregory avatar

Under The Rim Trail

Sammy Gregory · reviewed over 4 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in Utah

What is the climate like for hiking in Utah?

Utah's climate is distinct across its varied landscapes, from desert regions to high mountains. Generally, the state experiences a semi-arid to desert climate, with significant seasonal variations. The summer (June to August) can be scorching in desert areas like Moab, demanding adequate sun protection and hydration for hikers.
In contrast, winter (December to February) brings snow, especially to mountainous regions, making certain trails inaccessible or suitable only for winter sports. Hiking in spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) is often the most comfortable, with milder temperatures and fewer crowds.
Overall, spring and fall are considered the best periods for hiking in Utah, particularly in popular spots like Zion National Park or Bryce Canyon. For comprehensive hiking information, the Utah State Government's tourism site provides useful resources. Link: https://www.visitutah.com/

Do I need a permit to hike in Utah?

Permits may be required for hiking in certain areas of Utah, especially for overnight stays or hiking in national parks like Zion. These can be obtained from individual park services or the Bureau of Land Management. Applying ahead of time is recommended. For more information, https://www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/passes-and-permits/lotteries-and-permit-systems/utah

Is wild camping allowed in Utah?

Wild camping or "dispersed camping" is generally permitted on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands and National Forests in Utah. However, campers must follow "Leave No Trace" principles and specific area regulations. For comprehensive information on wild camping, the BLM Utah website is a valuable resource. Link: https://www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/camping

Are there mountain rescue services in Utah?

In Utah, mountain rescue services are provided by county sheriff's offices and volunteer search and rescue teams. In case of emergencies, hikers should dial 911. The Utah Search and Rescue (USARA) provides additional resources and safety information for outdoor enthusiasts. Link: https://secure.utah.gov/rescue/

Are there dangerous plants in Utah?

Hikers in Utah can encounter diverse flora from desert cacti and juniper in southern regions to coniferous forests in the higher mountain ranges. Each presents unique beauty and challenges, with some areas prone to wildfires. The Utah Native Plant Society offers extensive information on the state's flora. Link: https://www.unps.org/

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Utah?

While hiking in Utah, you might encounter wildlife ranging from smaller creatures like lizards and insects to larger animals like elk, mule deer, or even cougars in mountainous regions. Proper precautions should be taken to avoid unwanted encounters. The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources offers detailed information. https://a-z-animals.com/animals/location/north-america/united-states/utah/

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