Located in the Midwest United States, Utah is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Between the mountains, national parks, rivers and lakes there is no shortage of things to do, especially for hikers. Utah has five prominent hiking regions and a plethora of hiking trails for everyone from a beginner hiker to a veteran mountain climber.
Wasatch Front
The Wasatch front is located in the north-central part of Utah. It is a long and narrow urban area with the Wasatch Mountains to the east of it. The Ogden River Parkway is a three and one third mile trail perfect for a leisurely hike and picnic. If you're looking for more of a challenge, the Mount Olympus Trail offers a strenuous but rewarding hike with views of the Salt Lake Valley. A 100 mile endurance race takes place through the Wasatch Mountain trails every September.
Northern Mountains
In the northernmost part of Utah, the Northern Mountains offer several hiking options. Right outside of Logan, there is the Limber Pine Trail Loop that takes you on a pleasant one mile hike. If you're looking for something longer and more challenging the Skyline Trailhead and the Uinta Mountains are also in this region. The Uinta Mountains are one of the most prominent east/west ranges in the United States. Glaciers have created hundreds of lakes and wildlife abounds in these mountains. They are considered a hiker and backpackers' paradise.
Dinosaurland
Dinosaurland is located in northeast Utah, along the border of Utah and Colorado with unlimited options for hiking. Spend time wandering the back country of the Dinosaur National Monument, climb up King's Peak, which is the highest point in Utah, or trek along Highline Trail into the wilderness. In Dinosaur National Monument, mountains of rock bear fossil imprints from dinosaurs, crocodiles and sharks.
Great Basin
The Great Basin Desert is considered the largest U.S. desert. It is a cold desert due to its northern location. Its open space contributes to the solitude that many hikers feel while exploring the region. There are spectacular trails through the Stansburys Mountains. Another wonderful, but strenuous hike, is the six mile trek to the summit of Mt. Nebo. The 11,928 foot summit offers alpine scenery and views of the valleys.
Red Rock
Located in southern Utah, this area is home to some of the best hiking trails in the world. It's named for its red terrain of canyons, arches and rock formations. The Red Rock area includes several national parks, each with several hiking trails. All combined, the Red Rock area has over fifty different trails for hikers to enjoy. The Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park are two of the more popular parks. Zion National Park boasts the Narrows Trail, which is accessible to all hikers as the first mile is paved and easy and then you have the option of continuing on for a more challenging outing.
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