Some of Utah’s hiking trails can be brutal during the hot, summer months, but others provide a cool oasis from the heat. Here’s a little trail that’s popular for its well-known waterfall, but this little gem has a lot to offer long before you get to the falls.
The Donut Falls Traill is a popular hike in Big Cottonwood Canyon. To find the trailhead, drive up the canyon about nine miles and park at the Mill D Trailhead. During summer months, this trail is super busy, especially on weekends. Try to visit during a weekday, if possible.
Chris Repp/Alltrails
The trail is just three miles out and back, and it’s easy enough that hikers of all ages and abilities should be able to enjoy it.
Lydia Hall/Alltrails
The crystal-clear river is your companion for much of this hike.
Mike Goonan/Alltrails
You’ll cross the river a few times…
Chris Repp/Alltrails
…and you’ll want to bring your camera to capture the little waterfalls and scenic spots along the way.
Monica Martinez/Alltrails
Watch for wildlife! You’ll see chipmunks, squirrels, and even an occasional rabbit.
Lynette Phillps/Alltrails
You might even spot a moose or two on this hike!
Brandon Rasmussen/Flickr
In July and August, you’ll enjoy beautiful wildflowers all along the trail.
Lynette Phillps/Alltrails
As you near the falls, the trail basically ends and you’ll hike the rest of the way right through the river. By late summer, it’s pretty dry, but you’ll want to make sure you’re wearing shoes that you can get wet.
Alex M/Tripadvisor
The hike ends at Donut Falls - a unique waterfall that drops into a donut-shaped hole in the rock.
Derek Derek Gifford/Alltrails
Though it’s not recommended, many visitors scramble up the boulders to the falls above.
Mike Goonan/Alltrails
If you choose to climb up to the falls, take extra care. The rocks are often slippery, and it’s very steep here. People have been seriously injured and have even died from falling in this spot.
Scott Goforth/Alltrails
We’d love to see your photos and read about your adventures on the Donut Falls Trail, and if you enjoy Utah’s natural beauty, you’ll want to join our Utah Nature Lovers Group, where you can post your photos and see some great shots taken by fellow Utah photographers.
Chris Repp/Alltrails
Lydia Hall/Alltrails
Mike Goonan/Alltrails
Monica Martinez/Alltrails
Lynette Phillps/Alltrails
Brandon Rasmussen/Flickr
Alex M/Tripadvisor
Derek Derek Gifford/Alltrails
Scott Goforth/Alltrails
Are you up for a challenge? Take a look at these 12 peaks you can hike to get a bird’s eye view of the Beehive State.
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