Trails to explore this summer: Donut Falls
Jun 20, 2024 07:45AM ● By Bailey Chism
If you’re looking for a family-friendly, leisurely and absolutely gorgeous trail to hike this summer, I have just the place for you.
Donut Falls is a stunning waterfall in Salt Lake County that isn’t difficult to get to. If you don’t mind a bit of rock scrambling and some wet shoes, this will be a blast for you and your friends or family. It’s a 1.5 mile hike with very little elevation change, so it isn’t too taxing to walk. There are two routes you can take to get to the falls, one takes you over a bridge (which is currently out) and the other takes you along the creek.
If you don’t want to scramble over a makeshift bridge of logs, I would suggest using the alternate route along the creek. Both will give you incredible views and won’t wear you out. The trail will lead you through private land-holdings within the National Forest. When passing through this property, it is especially important to stick to the trail and watch out for posted guidance.
The trail to get to the falls is very well-marked and doesn’t give you the chance to get lost or confused as you hike. The trail ends once you pass the bridge and leads you right to a boulder field. This is where you’ll have to get a little technical and scramble over the rocks. Be prepared to get your feet wet during this part.
Once you’ve gotten past the boulders, you’ll finally see where Donut Falls got its name. The waterfall passes through a donut shaped hole in the rocks. The falls pour through the hole into a small pool before trickling down the rocks.
In total, the hike only takes about 45 minutes to an hour to complete and it’s easy enough to bring your kids along. Dogs aren’t allowed on the trail, so make sure to keep them home if you want to come check out the falls. Some areas of the trail can get steep, but it levels out fairly quickly and gives you a chance to catch your breath before the next incline.
Keep an eye out for wildlife in the area, you’re likely to see some of the little woodland creatures roaming around the trail. Bunnies, squirrels and chipmunks are common to see as you walk along the trail.
There’s a bit of a drive to get to the trailhead, but the canyon road is stunning and will give you plenty to look at as you make your way there. If you’re looking to make a day out of it, there are plenty of other trails you can explore as you go up or down the canyon.
