Day Trips from Salt Lake City
← All Salt Lake City day tripsDay Trips from Salt Lake City: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Salt Lake City, UT. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
8 waterfalls near Salt Lake City
Gordon Creek Falls
UT 84526, USA
Just 2 hrs 24 min from Salt Lake City, rated 4.8 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Waterfall Canyon Trailhead
Ogden, UT 84403
Just 41 min from Salt Lake City, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Bell Canyon Waterfall
Sandy, UT 84092
Just 27 min from Salt Lake City, rated 4.8 stars by 331 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Waterfall Canyon
Ogden, UT 84403
Just 41 min from Salt Lake City, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Fifth Water Hot Springs and Falls
Springville, UT 84663
Just 1 hr 37 min from Salt Lake City, rated 4.7 stars by 435 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Doughnut Falls
Utah 84121, USA
Just 38 min from Salt Lake City, rated 4.7 stars by 214 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Fifth Water Hot Springs Trail Waterfalls
United States, Utah
Just 1 hr 18 min from Salt Lake City, rated 4.6 stars, rich in history and well worth exploring.
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Fifth Water Hot Springs Trailhead
Springville, UT 84663
Just 1 hr 16 min from Salt Lake City, rated 4.5 stars by 1,247 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Salt Lake City
What are the best waterfalls near Salt Lake City, UT?
The best waterfalls near Salt Lake City range from roadside cascades to backcountry falls requiring a hike. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable waterfalls near Salt Lake City?
Some waterfalls near Salt Lake City have designated swimming areas at their base. Always check current conditions and posted rules before swimming. State park waterfalls with established trails are generally the safest options.
How hard are the hikes to waterfalls near Salt Lake City?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Salt Lake City are visible from parking areas or short boardwalks. Others require moderate to strenuous hikes of 2-6 miles round trip. Check individual trail descriptions before heading out.
When is the best time to see waterfalls near Salt Lake City?
Spring (March-May) typically offers the highest water flow after snowmelt and rain. Waterfalls are beautiful year-round though. Winter ice formations are dramatic, and fall foliage framing a waterfall is hard to beat.
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