The Best Utah Backpacking Trails Guide

Ready for an adventure that’ll take your breath away? Utah’s got you covered with its incredible backpacking trails. From the iconic red rocks in the south to the lush alpine meadows up north, there’s a trail for every kind of backpacker here. Whether you’re after a heart-pumping overnight trek or a chill multi-day hike, you’ll find the best backpacking in Utah is just waiting to blow your mind. So, grab your gear and get ready to dive into the natural beauty of this amazing state.

The Best Camping In Utah

Merino Wool Polar Hiking Socks

Top 12 Backpacking Trails in Utah

The Narrows, Zion National Park

Location: Zion National Park
Trail Type: Out-and-back
Distance: 16 miles (round trip)
Suggested Time: 1-2 days
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Permit: Required for overnight camping
Best Season: Late spring to early fall

The Narrows in Zion National Park is more than just a hike; it’s an unforgettable journey through a narrow slot canyon with the Virgin River as your guide. Picture walking in a canyon so tight that the sky is a thin strip above you, surrounded by towering walls. The adventure begins at the Temple of Sinawava, accessible by the park’s shuttle bus. From there, a mile-long Riverside Walk leads you to the start of The Narrows.

Before you set off, it’s essential to be aware of the risks. Flash floods can occur suddenly, so always check the weather forecast and park alerts. You’ll be wading or even swimming in some sections, so wear sturdy, water-resistant shoes and bring a walking stick or trekking poles for stability. The experience is safest and most enjoyable from late spring to early fall when water levels are lower.

Women Backpacking in the Narrows

Coyote Gulch, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

Location: Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
Trail Type: Loop or out-and-back
Distance: Up to 25 miles
Suggested Time: 2-4 days
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Permit: Required for overnight trips
Best Season: Spring and fall

Coyote Gulch is a backpacking destination known for its towering sandstone cliffs, captivating natural arches, and lush vegetation along the winding creek. This scenic canyon offers a variety of trailheads, including Hurricane Wash, Forty Mile Ridge, and Crack-in-the-Wall, each providing different perspectives and challenges. Hikers can choose their adventure, whether it’s a shorter, direct route or a longer, more scenic journey through the stunning landscape.

To reach the trailhead for Coyote Gulch you have several options, but the most common starting point is the Hurricane Wash trailhead. From Escalante, Utah, drive east on Highway 12 for about 5 miles, then turn right onto Hole-in-the-Rock Road. Continue for about 33 miles on this unpaved road, which is suitable for most vehicles in dry conditions. The Hurricane Wash trailhead will be on your left, marked by a small parking area. From here, you can begin your hike into the stunning Coyote Gulch, known for its towering arches, natural bridges, and serene waterfalls. Be sure to check current road conditions and weather forecasts before embarking on your journey, as the road can become impassable after heavy rains.

Highline Trail, Uinta Mountains

Location: Uinta Mountains
Trail Type: Point-to-point
Distance: Approximately 80 miles
Suggested Time: 7-10 days
Difficulty Level: Challenging
Permit: Not required for most sections
Best Season: Late summer

The Highline Trail, a remarkable path stretching across the entirety of the Uinta Mountains, presents hikers with an authentic wilderness experience. This trail invites adventurers into the heart of alpine forests, guides them past a mosaic of serene lakes, and challenges them with rugged mountain passes. As the trail weaves through diverse landscapes, it unveils the natural beauty and solitude of this remote area.

Tackling the Highline Trail is no small feat, as it demands endurance and preparation due to its significant elevation gain and demanding terrain. Hikers should ensure they are well-acclimated to the altitude and equipped with the necessary gear and supplies for a safe and enjoyable journey. Navigation skills and a solid understanding of backcountry principles are also crucial for traversing this remote and unspoiled path. The Highline Trail is accessible via the Highline Trailhead, which is conveniently located along the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway. To reach the trailhead, you can take a scenic drive from Salt Lake City, heading east towards the Uinta Mountains. The trailhead is well-marked and offers parking facilities. Before setting out on your adventure, it’s a good idea to check the latest travel conditions and ensure you have the necessary permits for your hike.

Buckskin Gulch, Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness

Location: Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness
Trail Type: Point-to-point or out-and-back
Distance: Up to 44 miles
Suggested Time: 2-4 days
Difficulty Level: Moderate to challenging
Permit: Required for overnight trips
Best Season: Spring and fall

Buckskin Gulch stands as one of the longest and deepest slot canyons globally, spanning the border of Northern Arizona and Southern Utah. This remarkable geological formation offers hikers an extraordinary journey through its narrow, serpentine passageways. The interplay of light and shadow within the canyon creates a mesmerizing and ever-changing display, making each step through this natural wonder a unique experience.

The hike through Buckskin Gulch is not without its challenges, as the canyon’s confined spaces are prone to flash floods. It’s imperative for hikers to monitor weather conditions closely, both locally and upstream, to avoid being caught in a dangerous situation. An escape plan and knowledge of the terrain are essential for a safe journey through this awe-inspiring landscape.

For those seeking a more extended adventure, Buckskin Gulch can be combined with the adjacent Paria Canyon, offering a multi-day trek through some of the most stunning and remote wilderness areas in the Southwest. Due to the popularity and delicate nature of these canyons, permits are required and limited in number.

Buckskin Gulch Backpacking Trail in Utah

The Best Hikes In Utah

The Subway, Zion National Park

Location: Zion National Park
Trail Type: Out-and-back
Distance: 9 miles (round trip)
Suggested Time: 1 day
Difficulty Level: Strenuous
Permit: Required for all hikers year-round
Best Season: Late spring to early fall

Embarking on The Subway is not for the faint-hearted, as it entails a mix of challenging elements including swimming through chilly pools, rappelling down sheer rock faces, and negotiating slippery boulders. These technical aspects require hikers to be well-prepared with the appropriate skills and equipment, such as ropes, harnesses, and wetsuits. A permit is mandatory for all who wish to undertake this adventure, emphasizing the need for preservation and safety in this fragile environment.

To access the Subway hike in Zion National Park, you’ll start from the Left Fork Trailhead. From the park’s South Entrance near Springdale, drive north on the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway (State Route 9) for about 8.2 miles. Turn left onto Kolob Terrace Road and continue for about 8 miles until you reach the Left Fork Trailhead, located on your right. Parking is limited, so arriving early is recommended. Note that a permit is required for the Subway hike, and it’s essential to check the park’s website for availability and regulations.

The Subway, Zion National Park

Kings Peak, High Uintas Wilderness

Location: High Uintas Wilderness
Trail Type: Out-and-back
Distance: 25 miles (round trip)
Suggested Time: 3-4 days
Difficulty Level: Challenging
Permit: Not required
Best Season: Late summer

Kings Peak is the highest peak in Utah, and the hike to the summit is a challenging but rewarding adventure. The trail takes hikers through beautiful alpine scenery, with the final ascent involving some off-trail scrambling. Weather can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to be prepared for changing conditions. The best time to attempt Kings Peak is in late summer when the snow has melted, and the weather is more stable. To get to Kings Peak, the most popular route is via the Henry’s Fork Trailhead. From Salt Lake City, take I-80 east towards Evanston, Wyoming.

Exit at Fort Bridger and follow Highway 414 south to Mountain View, then take Highway 410 west. After about 8 miles, turn left onto North Fork Road (Forest Road 017) and continue for about 17 miles to the Henry’s Fork Campground and Trailhead. From here, you can begin your hike to Kings Peak, which is approximately 13.5 miles one way. The trail is well-marked and offers stunning views of the Uinta Mountains.

Reflection Canyon, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Location: Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
Trail Type: Out-and-back
Distance: 15.3 miles (round trip)
Suggested Time: 2-3 days
Difficulty Level: Challenging
Permit: Not required
Best Season: Spring and fall

The trek to Reflection Canyon is not for the faint-hearted, as it presents a series of challenges for even the most seasoned hikers. The absence of a defined trail means that navigation relies heavily on GPS and orienteering skills, adding an element of exploration to the experience. The arid desert environment also necessitates that hikers carry all their water. Despite these hurdles, the reward for those who persevere is a sense of unparalleled solitude and the chance to witness one of nature’s most spectacular displays.

To reach Reflection Canyon, you’ll need to drive to the Hole-in-the-Rock Road, which starts about 5 miles east of Escalante, Utah, on Highway 12. Follow Hole-in-the-Rock Road for approximately 50 miles until you reach a dirt road on the left, marked for the Water Tanks. From there, it’s about a 5-mile drive on a rough dirt road to the trailhead.

Dark Canyon Wilderness, Manti-La Sal National Forest

Location: Manti-La Sal National Forest
Trail Type: Loop or out-and-back
Distance: Varies, up to 40 miles
Suggested Time: 3-5 days
Difficulty Level: Moderate to challenging
Permit: Not required
Best Season: Spring and fall

Dark Canyon Wilderness is perfect for adventurers seeking a true backcountry experience. This expansive area is characterized by its deep, winding canyons, imposing cliffs, and the remnants of ancient civilizations. Hikers can explore a variety of trails that range from leisurely walks along the canyon rim, offering panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness, to more strenuous treks that descend into the canyon’s depths.

When planning a hike in the Dark Canyon Wilderness, it’s important to consider the availability of water sources, which are often seasonal and can vary depending on recent rainfall or snowmelt. Carrying sufficient water and a reliable method for purification is essential for a safe and enjoyable journey. Additionally, the area’s remote nature and limited access points require hikers to be well-prepared and self-sufficient, with a solid understanding of navigation and wilderness survival skills.

To reach Dark Canyon Wilderness, begin your journey from Blanding, Utah, heading south towards Natural Bridges National Monument. From there, take a turn onto a dirt road, typically Forest Road 88 (County Road 228), which may require a high-clearance vehicle. This road will lead you to the trailhead at Woodenshoe Canyon, the gateway to the wilderness area.

Capitol Reef National Park, Lower Muley Twist Canyon

Location: Capitol Reef National Park
Trail Type: Loop
Distance: 15 miles
Suggested Time: 2-3 days
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Permit: Required for overnight camping
Best Season: Spring and fall

This trail takes you through some amazing scenery, with tall sandstone slot canyons, natural arches you can walk under, and even spots where you can climb up to the rim for incredible views. It’s a hike that keeps things interesting. There are easy, flat parts where you can stroll along, and other sections where you’ll need to do a bit of rock scrambling or wiggle through tight spots.

To get to the trailhead, head to the Capitol Reef National Park and follow the signs to the Burr Trail Road. The trailhead for Lower Muley Twist Canyon is located off this road, so keep an eye out for the signs as you drive.

Capital Reef National Park Backpacking Trail

Needles District, Canyonlands National Park

Location: Canyonlands National Park
Trail Type: Loop or out-and-back
Distance: Varies, up to 40 miles
Suggested Time: 2-5 days
Difficulty Level: Moderate to challenging
Permit: Required for overnight camping
Best Season: Spring and fall

The Needles District in Canyonlands National Park is all about rugged beauty and off-the-grid hiking. On this hike, you’ll enter a world of natural wonders that seem almost surreal. As you walk, you’ll be surrounded by towering sandstone spires, their shapes and forms reminiscent of scenes from a sci-fi movie. The canyons you’ll explore are a marvel in themselves, with walls that change hues as the light shifts throughout the day. Along the way, you might even stumble upon ancient rock art, a silent testament to the people who once roamed these lands.

Before you hit the trails, make sure you’ve got a good map and know how to use it – cell service is pretty much non-existent out here. Bring along sturdy boots that can handle everything from sandy paths to rocky climbs. And don’t forget to pack the essentials like sun protection and layers – the desert can be surprisingly chilly once the sun goes down. Hiking in the Needles District is a chance to get away from it all and dive into some of the most unique landscapes the Southwest has to offer.

La Sal Mountains, Mount Peale

Location: La Sal Mountains
Trail Type: Out-and-back
Distance: 6 miles (round trip)
Suggested Time: 1-2 days
Difficulty Level: Moderate to challenging
Permit: Not required
Best Season: Summer

Mount Peale, standing proudly as the highest point in the La Sal Mountains, offers an adventure that’s both challenging and immensely satisfying. As you make your way to the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views that are nothing short of spectacular, showcasing a stunning contrast between desert expanses and rugged mountain terrain.

The journey to the top, while not extensive in distance, is deceivingly steep, making it a true test of your hiking prowess. The trail demands a good level of physical fitness, as the incline is relentless and can be quite taxing on your legs and lungs. Along the way, you’ll traverse diverse landscapes, from dense forests to rocky slopes, each adding its own unique flavor to the hike.

To reach Mount Peale, you’ll need to make your way to the La Sal Mountains, which are located near Moab. The journey to the trailhead is part of the adventure, with scenic drives through some of Utah’s most beautiful landscapes. As you embark on this hike, remember to respect the natural environment and practice Leave No Trace principles to ensure this majestic peak remains pristine for future adventurers.

La Sal Mountains

Henry Mountains, Mount Ellen

Location: Henry Mountains
Trail Type: Out-and-back
Distance: 10 miles (round trip)
Suggested Time: 1-2 days
Difficulty Level: Moderate to challenging
Permit: Not required
Best Season: Late spring to early fall

Mount Ellen, invites adventurers to experience one of America’s most secluded mountain ranges. The journey to the summit is a gradual climb that takes you through a variety of landscapes. The trail to the top is pretty straightforward, so you won’t need to worry too much about getting lost.

That being said, the weather up there can be a bit unpredictable, so make sure you’re geared up for anything from sunshine to a sudden chill. The prime time to tackle Mount Ellen is between late spring and early fall when the snow’s gone, and the days are warmer and longer.

To get started on this adventure, you’ll want to head toward Hanksville, Utah, and from there, follow the signs to the Henry Mountains. Once you’re in the area, look for the Bull Creek Pass trailhead – that’s your gateway to reaching the peak of Mount Ellen. It’s a bit of a journey to get there, but the incredible views and the bragging rights of conquering such a remote peak make it all worth it.