Here’s a hiking guide to the best trails near campus, from a quick sunset climb to a full summit day. Times are for the hike itself, not the drive from campus, and mileage is round trip unless noted.
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1
The Living Room
Moderate2.5–2.7 mi1–1.5 hrs
A classic hike right by the University of Utah with panoramic views of the valley. The distance is short, but the climb is steeper than you might expect. Great for a quick sunset hike.
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2
Mount Timpanogos
Very hard15–16 mi8–12 hrs
A full-day summit hike with major elevation gain, exposed sections, and rocky terrain. The Timpooneke route is about 15 miles round trip with roughly 4,425 feet of elevation gain. Start early and bring plenty of water, layers, food, and a headlamp.
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3
Stewart Falls
Easy–moderate3.5–4 mi1.5–2.5 hrs
A beautiful forest hike to a tall waterfall near Sundance. The approach is relatively manageable, but the descent near the falls is steeper. Allow more time than 45 minutes for the full round trip.
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4
Lake Blanche
Hard6.4 mi4–6 hrs
A challenging uphill hike to a gorgeous alpine lake beneath Sundial Peak. Expect around 2,700 feet of elevation gain. One of the best options if you want a genuinely strenuous hike without committing to a summit or an overnight trip.
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5
Kings Peak
Very hard26–30 mi2–4 days
Utah's highest peak is a serious backpacking objective. Distance and time vary by trailhead and itinerary. Plan for substantial elevation gain, changing mountain weather, navigation, and overnight gear. It is not a casual day hike.
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6
Bridal Veil Falls
EasyAbout 0.5 mi15–30 min
More of a short waterfall walk than a hike. The paved Provo River Parkway approach is the easiest option, and the falls are also visible from the canyon road. Check current trail closures before going, because access improvements have been underway.
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7
Gloria Falls
ModerateAbout 2–3 mi1–2 hrs
A popular short waterfall outing in Millcreek Canyon. The exact distance depends on your starting point and route, and the final approach can be rocky or slippery. Wear shoes with good traction.
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8
Donut Falls
EasyAbout 1.6 mi45–75 min
A short, family-friendly walk through the forest to a distinctive waterfall. Stay on safe, established ground near the falls, because wet rocks can be extremely slippery. Parking farther down the canyon can add mileage.
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9
Waterfall Canyon Trail
Hard2.4 mi2–3 hrs
A relatively short but strenuous hike near Ogden. The steep, rocky scramble makes this harder than the mileage suggests. Avoid climbing the cliffs around the waterfall.
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10
Guardsman Pass
Easy–moderateVaries by route30 min–2 hrs
Guardsman Pass is an area and scenic road rather than one specific trail. Nearby routes range from easy meadow walks to much harder mountain hikes, so choose a named route before planning your mileage. The road typically closes in winter.
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11
Bloods Lake
EasyAbout 2 mi45–75 min
A short alpine lake hike through meadows and pine forest. There is a downhill section on the way in, so remember that you will climb back out. Parking is limited, and seasonal road closures affect access.
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12
Mount Baldy
Moderate–hardAbout 3–4 mi2–3 hrs
The name can refer to several Utah peaks. If you mean the Mount Baldy summit near Brighton, expect a steeper route with rocky or exposed sections. Confirm the exact trailhead before relying on these estimates.
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13
Bonneville Shoreline Trail
Easy–moderateChoose your distance30 min–3+ hrs
Excellent for a quick walk, an after-class workout, or a longer trail run. You can turn around whenever you like. Some sections are flat and easy, while others have sustained climbs.
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14
Pink Lake
EasyAbout 0.5–1 mi20–45 min
A very short outing in the Brighton area of Big Cottonwood Canyon. The exact distance depends on the access point and path you follow. Conditions can be muddy or snowy outside summer, and the lake's color can vary.
How we rate them
- Easy: short, relatively gentle trails with limited elevation gain.
- Moderate: noticeable uphill sections, some rocky terrain, or longer distances.
- Hard: steep climbs, significant elevation gain, or strenuous full-day hikes.
- Very hard: major mountain summits or multiday backpacking trips.
These are approximate estimates, not guaranteed route measurements. Snow, trail closures, parking locations, and alternate trailheads can change both the distance and the time. Confirm the precise route for Mount Baldy, Guardsman Pass, and Pink Lake before you head out, and check official U.S. Forest Service trail information and current conditions before you leave.
As always,THAT'S WHAT SHE SAID.
