Heughs Canyon Trail

The Heughs Canyon Trail offers a rugged escape into nature right near Salt Lake City, leading you through a consistently steep canyon to a beautiful 35-foot waterfall. You'll navigate a path that transitions from urban fringe to dense scrub oak and rocky terrain, often following an old water pipe. Expect to cross Heugh's Creek multiple times, sometimes on primitive log bridges, and be prepared for a boulder field scramble to reach the base of the falls. This 3.0-mile (4.8 km) hike with 1223 feet (373 metres) of elevation gain is rated moderate and takes about 1 hour and 54 minutes.

Planning your visit to Heughs Canyon Trail means preparing for a challenging ascent. Parking can fill up quickly, so an early start is recommended. The trail can get muddy after rain, and while it's dog-friendly, keep an eye out for rattlesnakes. The waterfall is most impressive in spring, but the canyon's vibrant fall colors and winter icicles offer different seasonal appeals. Continuing beyond the main waterfall significantly increases the difficulty, with sections exceeding a 45-degree grade.

This trail is a local favorite for its convenient access and rewarding scenery, providing a quick immersion into the wilderness. It's particularly notable for its lush, green environment that contrasts with the reddish-brown canyon walls. You might even catch glimpses of the city below from higher viewpoints. For those interested in exploring further, the trail also connects with a section of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail.