No matter what the season, Utah’s waterfall trails are beautiful. One of our most popular trails, Donut Falls, is often crowded during spring, summer, and fall, but it’s still worth the journey. During winter months, this trail is much quieter, and you’ll be treated to a frozen waterfall in a little cave at the end.

For a fantastic winter hike, head to Big Cottonwood Canyon. You'll drive nine miles up the canyon and park at the Mill D trailhead.
William McKee/Alltrails
The Donut Falls trail is just 3.2 miles, out and back, and it's rated as easy, so it's perfect for just about every hiker. The trail has an elevation change of just over 500 feet.
Rachel Hinatsu Toner/Alltrails
During winter months, you might want to be prepared with snow shoes or traction cleats, depending on recent snowfall. You don't want to miss out on this pretty, snowy stroll through the pines!
Alexis Brewer/Alltrails
The surrounding scenery is stunning, and on a quiet, mid-week morning, you might have the trail all to yourself.
Joan Brown/Alltrails

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Make sure to check avalanche conditions before you hike. This place is a winter wonderland, but it can also be dangerous, especially after new snowfall.
Madeleine Merrell/Alltrails
For the latest avalanche conditions in Millcreek Canyon, visit Utah Avalanche Center’s website.
At the end of the trail, you'll scramble up some boulders about 100 feet to see this little cave. The waterfall pours right into a hole in the cave's roof.
Ryan Braumann/Alltrails
You'll still likely see a trickle of water, even when the temps are below zero, but you'll also be treated to plenty of icicles and snow inside.
Angie Carerra/Alltrails
Some hikers want to climb higher up along a side trail so that they can see Donut Falls from above, but we discourage that dangerous practice. Several people have died from falls while making the climb, and in the winter it's even more treacherous.
Thomas Jackson/Alltrails
The area above the falls is so dangerous, that after a fatality in 2003, the hiking trail was closed to the public for several years, until Salt Lake County purchased the land in 2007 and opened it again. It's not worth the risk - enjoy the waterfall from below.

Have you hike the Donut Falls Trail? We’d love to read about your hike and see your photos in our Facebook comments!

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Donut Falls Summer Trailhead, Salt Lake City, UT 84121, USA