This hike, this place, it is a unforgettable experience and one that if you are visiting Utah it's another one of those things that you just won't want to miss! Utah has a lot of breathtaking natural features, unfortunately it's no longer the hidden Gem of the West that it once was, and without exception more and more of those "hidden gems" are making special appearances on the center stage. Donut Falls is certainly one of them, and it continues to show as literally bus-loads of people are streaming to sites such as this one. That aside, the trail itself it probably 80-85% shaded, which already makes it an easy selling point. Further, this hike has a very well maintained trailhead, with plenty of markers/signs to keep you on track, along with there are accesible restrooms located at the overflow parking and basepoint for the trailhead as well, again another added plus to the friendliness of the hike. At 2-4 miles in and out, with one spot where there is a guided support line down a couple of rocks to the stream bed before heading around the corner to the waterfall, this is honestly a very, very easy hike, and is recommended for all ages, as you will find that tons of young kids and older grandparents enjoy the hike! Definitely family friendly by all means! Some tips to pass along though, plan for this being a very, very popular hike, even in the morning, as again this is one of those now not so "hidden gems" and for great reason it's a beautiful place to visit! So with that being said, I would recommend using the overflow parking lot as not only will it be easier to park, as well as safely leave the area when you are done, but it will save the headache of there only being very, very limited parking at the basepoint. Again, there is hardly any space to park at the main lot, so plan for the overflow and honestly the hike will be just as or even more enjoyable because of that too. A second item to recommend, plan on bringing plenty of water, as well as sunscreen you will still want it and need it for the duration of the hike, even with the plentiful shade. A third item of business, be sure to pick up any trash if you see any on the hike and please don't contribute to any, as this is definitely a special place that you wouldn't want others to miss out on for current as well as future generations. With all of that being said, enjoy this hike, it's well worth it and be sure to capture that Waterfall Experience! It is truly a remarkable piece of nature that makes you appreciate how lucky we are to experience something so simple yet...
Read moreBeautiful place to visit and a very nice walk, but if you want to see the donut falls from inside (see cool pictures that people posted) then you should know that the last part to get to this point includes a dangerous climb on rocks which is ok for adventurous and sporty People, but really dangerous and off limit for young children (below 12) and elderly, or adults afraid of heights. There is a clear sign after the 30 minutes hike that climbing is forbidden. You can still see the waterfall if you don't climb the last few meters, and it is still worth visiting, but just don't be disappointed that you won't see the donut fall from inside. By the way, the fall from inside looks large in the pictures, but you need to kneel down to get in and cannot stand upright. Still very cool to see, but I think it is important to have the correct expectations.
Swimming/bathing forbidden as this water is part of the drinking water provision for the city.
Toilets available at the trailhead before you start the hike.
There are indications to follow an easier track because of a missing bridge, but this part of the walk is really easy if you dare to cross the water (not deep in the summer, max ankle high) even with smaller children. It is not dangerous at all, only the climb for those last few meters if you really want to take the donut falls picture from inside is really dangerous if...
Read moreOne of Utah’s many landscape gifts. This place is like a gorgeous movie set, except it’s real! Getting to the trailhead is a bit of a pain. You can either park down below and walk up the road to the trailhead (which is probably a longer hike than the actual hike!) OR, you can drive up and attempt to find parking which is very limited. The road is paved most of the way but it does turn to dirt and gravel shortly before you arrive. There are seasonal bathrooms at the beginning of the trail, which is nice! The hike begins and ends with a bit of steepness but is a very welcome combination of ups and downs throughout the middle section. While the hike, itself is not difficult, I highly recommend shoes with very good grip for once you arrive at the falls. The rocks have been very polished by all the foot traffic so it can be quite slick. You do have to cross the riverbed at the top so there’s a chance of getting your shoes a little wet. Once at the falls, you can rest and enjoy the scenery or, for the more adventurous, you can scramble Up the falls to the “donut” at the top. A beautiful, kid-friendly hike that can’t be missed! (Pictures were taken in October so there is...
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