Donut Falls Trailhead in Salt Lake City, UT Hiking Guide

Utah is home to many natural wonders, and Donut Falls Trailhead is no exception. This beginner’s hike is perfect for a quick afternoon adventure and is located in the Big Cottonwood Canyon. Packed with plenty of scenic landscapes and mountain views, this is an experience you won’t want to miss.

Trail Overview

Before setting out, you’ll want to consider a few things about Donut Falls Trailhead. Knowing a few facts about the hike will help you decide if it’s the right trail for you.

Time

Roughly 1.5 hours, depending on pace.

Length

3.3 miles out and back.

Elevation Gain

About 530 ft.

Difficulty

Easy

Map

You can find a Donut Falls Trailhead map here.

Fees

None

Parking

At the trailhead

Location

The Donut Falls Trailhead location isn’t difficult to get to, and following some simple directions will help you find where the trail begins.

First, you will want to head up the canyon to Mill D Trailhead and turn right onto Mill D Southfork Road. Once you pass the Jordan Pines picnic area, the road becomes dirt, and you can follow it to the trailhead.

The Best Time to Visit Donut Falls Trailhead

The best time to visit the trailhead is in the morning or on weekdays, as this hike is extremely popular among locals and visitors. Coming later in the day or on the weekend might mean running the risk of not finding parking at the lot.

Donut Falls Trailhead hours are open, so you can access the trail 24 hours a day. However, the mountains in this area can be dangerous, so novice hikers are encouraged to travel during the day.

Best Season to Visit Donut Falls Trailhead

The best season to visit is between April and October. The mountains are especially stunning in early fall.

Accessibility

The hike is relatively easy and suitable for adventurers of all skill levels. The difficulty depends mainly on the rocky scramble to the waterfall itself. You don’t have to complete this part of the hike, however.

Thanks to the Donut Falls Trailhead length, families with kids will love this climb. A short distance and gentle incline mean that this hike will not be overwhelming. Remember that dogs are not allowed on the trail, so don’t bring the family pet on this outing.

Activities

This route primarily serves walkers and hikers. Heavy foot traffic makes biking on this trail dangerous, so it’s best to leave your bike home.

If you plan to come during the winter, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are optional and perfect for potential beginners.

What To Bring

The gear you take on this hike will depend on when you go. If you plan to hike in the summer, bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and bug repellent. Because the hike is so simple, you shouldn’t need anything else.

It’s important to remember that mountain terrain can be unpredictable, so bring extra layers like a jacket. You will also want to bring a first aid kit.

Reviews

This hike is extremely popular with families, and many locals grew up enjoying this trail. Hikers rave about the beauty of this climb. It’s also praised for its ease and accessibility. Read more reviews here.