Utah’s Wasatch Mountains offer a treasure trove of stunning hiking trails. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, the areas around Park City, Midway, and Heber City provide diverse options to explore nature’s beauty. Below is a guide to some of the best trails in the region, complete with trail descriptions, difficulty ratings, and tips for making the most of your adventure.
Park City Hiking Trails
1. Armstrong Trail
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 6.6 miles out and back
- Elevation Gain: 1,250 feet
- Highlights: Dog-friendly, aspen groves, panoramic views of Park City
- Armstrong Trail is a popular trail for hikers and mountain bikers alike. The trail winds through aspen forests and offers incredible views of Park City and surrounding peaks. For an extended hike, connect to Dawns Trail or Spiro Trail.
2. Silver Lake Trail (Deer Valley)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 4.7 miles out and back
- Elevation Gain: 1,345 feet
- Highlights: Scenic lake, wildflowers, panoramic ridge views
- Located in Deer Valley Resort, Silver Lake Trail leads you up to Bald Mountain. During the summer, hikers are rewarded with vibrant wildflowers and a picturesque alpine lake at the top.
3. The Mid Mountain Trail
- Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
- Distance: 23 miles point-to-point
- Elevation Gain: Varies depending on the entry point
- Highlights: Endless views, forested trails, mountain biking opportunities
- The Mid Mountain Trail is a long-distance trail that traverses Park City’s ski resorts. This trail is ideal for those looking for a full-day adventure or segments for shorter hikes.
4. 10420 Trail
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Distance: 5 miles out and back
- Elevation Gain: 1,300 feet
- Highlights: High-altitude summit, breathtaking panoramic views
- This challenging trail takes you to the summit of 10,420 feet, offering spectacular views of the surrounding Wasatch Mountains. Expect steep climbs and rugged terrain.
5. Bloods Lake Trail
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Distance: 2.8 miles out and back
- Elevation Gain: 600 feet
- Highlights: Beautiful alpine lake, family-friendly
- A favorite for locals and visitors alike, Bloods Lake Trail is a short hike that rewards you with a serene alpine lake surrounded by evergreens. Perfect for a quick escape into nature.
Midway Hiking Trails
1. Cascade Springs Trail
- Difficulty: Easy
- Distance: 0.8 miles loop
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Highlights: Natural springs, interpretive signs, lush greenery
- Perfect for families and those looking for a leisurely stroll, the Cascade Springs Trail features boardwalks and pathways around beautiful natural springs with crystal-clear water.
2. Wasatch Mountain State Park Overlook Trail
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 3.5 miles out and back
- Elevation Gain: 950 feet
- Highlights: Panoramic views of the Heber Valley
- This trail offers a moderate climb with rewarding views at the top. As you ascend, you’ll enjoy expansive vistas of Midway and the surrounding Wasatch Range.
3. Dutch Canyon Trails
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: Varies by route
- Elevation Gain: Varies
- Highlights: Scenic canyon views, forested paths
- Dutch Canyon features a network of trails ideal for hiking, trail running, and mountain biking. The area offers stunning views of the Wasatch Mountains and peaceful canyon scenery.
4. Phosphate Trail
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 5 miles out and back
- Elevation Gain: 1,200 feet
- Highlights: Unique geological features, wildflowers
- This lesser-known trail offers a unique opportunity to explore Midway’s natural landscape. The trail is peaceful, with fewer crowds and striking rock formations.
Heber City Hiking Trails
1. Jordanelle Perimeter Trail
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 15.8 miles loop
- Elevation Gain: 1,500 feet
- Highlights: Jordanelle Reservoir views, wildlife sightings
- For a scenic hike around the Jordanelle Reservoir, the Perimeter Trail provides a mix of meadows, wooded areas, and open vistas. This trail is great for birdwatching and photography.
2. Coyote Canyon Trail
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Distance: 9 miles out and back
- Elevation Gain: 600 feet
- Highlights: Rolling terrain, wildflowers, peaceful surroundings
- Located near the Jordanelle area, Coyote Canyon Trail offers a more peaceful alternative to busier trails. The terrain is gently rolling, making it suitable for a wide range of hikers.
Sundance Area
Mount Timpanogos
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Distance: 14 miles out and back (via Timpooneke Trail)
- Elevation Gain: 4,500 feet
- Highlights: Expansive summit views, wildflower meadows, waterfalls
- One of the most iconic hikes in Utah, Mount Timpanogos offers a challenging adventure with breathtaking scenery. Hikers will encounter alpine meadows, waterfalls, and a panoramic view from the summit. Start early and be prepared for a full-day excursion.
Tips for Hiking in the Wasatch Mountains
- Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water, especially on longer hikes.
- Dress in Layers: Mountain weather can change rapidly. Wear moisture-wicking layers to adapt to temperature shifts.
- Leave No Trace: Preserve the natural beauty of these trails by packing out all trash and respecting wildlife.
- Check Trail Conditions: Snow, mud, or trail closures can affect your plans. Always check conditions before heading out.
- Trail Etiquette: Be mindful of other users, including mountain bikers and equestrians. Yield appropriately and stay on marked paths.
By featuring these stunning hiking trails near Park City, Midway, and Heber City, you’re sure to find the perfect adventure to fit your skill level and schedule. I have a passion for the mountains and hiking, so if you have any questions or need additional ideas of where to hike, don't hesitate to reach out. I love sharing all the places I’ve explored and the unique reasons each trail is worth visiting. Whether you’re exploring lush forests, taking in expansive mountain views, or discovering peaceful alpine lakes, these trails showcase the very best of Utah’s outdoor beauty.
Looking for your dream home near these trails? Contact Miriam Noel, a team member from the LaPay Group today to learn more about available properties in these beautiful mountain communities.
