Chasing Waterfalls in Northern Utah
Laina Dutton shares why Park City and Salt Lake City have become some of her favorite places to explore. Where did you travel?
Stewart Falls
Where did you travel?
Park City and Salt Lake City, Utah.
Park City and Salt Lake City, Utah.
What inspired you to go there?
A weather diversion unexpectedly brought us to Salt Lake City on our way to a Colorado ski trip after getting stuck in the 2021 Houston ice storm. My son and I ended up skiing Deer Valley instead of Aspen, and we completely fell in love with the area.
A weather diversion unexpectedly brought us to Salt Lake City on our way to a Colorado ski trip after getting stuck in the 2021 Houston ice storm. My son and I ended up skiing Deer Valley instead of Aspen, and we completely fell in love with the area.
What did you do there?
We spent our time visiting family and friends, day hiking, and exploring the mountains around Park City and Salt Lake City.
We spent our time visiting family and friends, day hiking, and exploring the mountains around Park City and Salt Lake City.
What did you enjoy most and why?
When most people think of hiking in Utah, they picture Zion or Moab in the southern part of the state. But Northern Utah offers spectacular hiking, from short waterfall trails near the city to alpine lake hikes in the High Uintas. Along the way, you'll find aspen groves, wildflower meadows, and maybe even spot moose or mountain goats.
When most people think of hiking in Utah, they picture Zion or Moab in the southern part of the state. But Northern Utah offers spectacular hiking, from short waterfall trails near the city to alpine lake hikes in the High Uintas. Along the way, you'll find aspen groves, wildflower meadows, and maybe even spot moose or mountain goats.
I especially loved hiking in the Wasatch and Uinta Mountains. Some of my favorite trails were Gloria Falls, Stewart Falls, and Lofty Lake Loop. Gloria Falls is a beautiful, relatively short hike that can be extended to Red Pine Lake. Stewart Falls is accessed through Sundance Resort, which is well worth a visit, and Lofty Lake Loop climbs to nearly 11,000 feet. I visited at the end of June, and it was snowing! Between the scenery and the countless waterfalls, every hike felt unique.
Recommendations for your neighbors if they travel there?
If you're planning to hike, start with an easier trail on your first day to give yourself time to adjust to the elevation. Carry plenty of water, wear sunscreen, dress in layers, and download your maps before heading into the mountains since cell service can be limited.
If you're planning to hike, start with an easier trail on your first day to give yourself time to adjust to the elevation. Carry plenty of water, wear sunscreen, dress in layers, and download your maps before heading into the mountains since cell service can be limited.
Most trailheads require paid parking, so the annual America the Beautiful National Parks Pass is worth purchasing. While you're there, don't miss a drink at the historic Asher Adams Hotel in Salt Lake City, built inside the former Union Pacific Depot. If you're in Deer Valley, stop by Stein Eriksen Lodge for what I think is the best bacon you'll ever eat. And for dinner in Park City, Prime Steakhouse is a must—especially the scallops, which were the best I've ever had.