|
Donut Falls
Hiking Trail - Big Cottonwood Canyon
Back To
Big Cottonwood Canyon Hiking Trails
View Of The Parking Area
In November 2004 many outdoor enthusiasts were shocked when we heard the
news that the Donut Falls hiking trail would close to the public for
good. The good news is that the falls and about 144 acres surrounding
them were purchased by Salt Lake City for 1.3 million dollars.
Over the last several months Utah Outdoor Activities has received
several emails about the falls and decided it was time to visit this
beautiful location and add it back to our hiking trail directory.
The turn off to the falls is located approx 9 miles up Big Cottonwood
Canyon. Take a right and drive past the Jordan Pines Picnic Area
and some private property to the trailhead parking lot. The
parking lot offers parking for several cars, however due to the
popularity of this hike this lot fills up fast especially on the
weekends.
|
 |
 |
The trail starts to south of the parking lot by the
restrooms. The trail has a slight elevation gain but is great for
hikers of all ages. The trail winds through woods and meadows and
offers beautiful views of the surrounding terrain and stream. Once
close to the falls the trail leads you next to the stream and you can
hear the cascading water in the distance. At this point you will
experience a slight drop-off that the kids may need help with.
Once you reach the falls you can cross a very small log bridge to the
east side of the stream to get a great view of the falls and the donut
which the falls are named. Utah Outdoor Activities does not advise
climbing up the rock to view the "donut hole" as this rock is very
slippery. If you do, you do so at your own risk.
|
 |
 |
On our visit we noticed people from 1 to 2 years of age
to the elderly having a great time in the great outdoors. It is
nice to know that this beautiful hike has been set aside for public use
and is less then a ½ hour drive for most living in the Salt Lake Valley.
If you haven’t visited Donut Falls we highly recommend that you do.
Remember this trail is very popular so be prepared for the crowds.
Also as with all outdoor activities please watch the weather, bring
plenty of water, a cell phone, a snack and be safe!
Driving Directions:
Travel up the canyon road 9.0 miles, and you will come to a large
parking lot with restrooms. This area is also a very popular
sledding area in the winter time. Turn right a travel down the
paved road past the Jordan Pines Picnic Area past some private property
to the trail head parking area.
Trail Stats:
Distance to Doughnut Falls- ¾ mile
Elevation Gain- 280 feet to 7200 feet
Hiking Time- 30 minutes
|
