Summers in Utah are about wildlife, wildflowers, expansive views and outdoor play. My favorite pastime from spring through fall is hiking. Below, I share hikes perfect for getting out on the trail with family or if you need a short nature break.
A few reminders…. Carry essential supplies in your daypack. Not sure what that should include? Read this post I wrote Staying Safe with the Ten Essentials of Hiking. Not all trails allow dogs, so check before inviting your fur baby. Be courteous. This post explains the basics from wildlife to right of way, Good Mountain Manners.
These hikes range from Northern Utah all the way to Cedar Breaks in Southern Utah, so there is an option wherever you plan to base your stay.
Northern Utah Hikes
Powder Mountain
Paper Airplane Trail – ~1.4 mi RT • Easy
- Why Go: A giant metal “paper airplane” sculpture, panoramic views.
- Tip: The trail is in full sun, bring a hat, water and sunscreen.
- The Details: Paper Airplane Trail
Snowbasin Resort
Green Pond Trail – ~2.4 mi RT • Easy
- Why Go: Forested trail ending at a seasonal pond—great wildlife spotting, fun for kids, dog friendly.
- Tip: Bring bug spray
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The Details: Green Pond Trail
Salt Lake & Park City Areas
Brighton
Silver Lake Loop – 0.9 mi loop • Easy
- Why Go: Moose and wildflowers, new wheelchair accessible boardwalk section, cool.
- Tip: No dogs are allowed in the Cottonwood Canyons.
- The Details: Silver Lake Loop
Solitude Mountain Resort
Twin Lakes Reservoir Trail – ~2.5 mi RT • Easy-Moderate
- Why Go: Beautiful alpine reservoir, wildlife viewing (watch for marmots).
- Tips: No dogs are allowed in the Cottonwood Canyon. This trail has some elevation gain, but is worth the effort. Bring bug spray in the spring.
- The Details: Twin Lakes Reservoir Solitude
Alta Ski Area
Cecret Lake Trail – 1.8 mi RT • Easy-Moderate
- Why Go: Stunning granite rimmed lake with July wildflowers
- Tips: No dogs are allowed in the Cottonwood Canyons. An access fee is required to drive the seasonal road to the trailhead, which opens late June or early July. Alternatively, hike from the base parking area.
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The Details: Cecret Lake Trail
Snowbird
Observation Point Trail – 1 mi RT • Easy
- Why Go: A short, paved path that starts behind the Snowbird Center and goes to a wooden overlook with great views. Wheelchair and stroller accessible.
- Tips: No dogs are allowed in the Cottonwood Canyons. Note that the trail starts behind the Snowbird Center; some online directions are incorrect.
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The Details: Observation Point Trail
Park City Area
Armstrong Trail (to Dawns Loop) – ~3.5 mi loop • Easy-Moderate
- Why Go: Gentle grade, tons of shade, lush aspens
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The Details: Armstrong Trail to Dawns Loop
McPolin Nature Trail – 1.6 mi loop • Easy
- Why Go: Family and dog-friendly with beautiful scenery, a creek, and a historic barn
- The Details: McPolin Nature Trail
Southern Utah
Alpine Pond North Loop – 2.2 mi loop • Easy
- Why Go: Forest walk to an alpine pond, wildlife, wildflowers
- Tip: Stop to look for salamanders in the clear pond
- The Details: Alpine Pond North Loop
Spectra Point Trail – 1.9 mi RT • Easy-Moderate
- Why Go: Utah’s “mini‑Grand Canyon” views, red-orange amphitheater
- Tips: This trail has some elevation gain, but it is short and worth the effort! It can be slippery if wet and rainy.
- The Details: Spectra Point Trail
Happy trails!
