Winter in Utah is a magical time. The chill in the air and the fresh powder on the mountains inspire us to slow down and take things just a bit easier. Of course, there’s a lot to do outside, too. Just because there is snow in the mountains doesn’t mean that it’s time to hang up your hiking boots! Utah has plenty of great alpine trails that are perfect for hiking or snowshoeing. Head up Big Cottonwood Canyon for this easy winter hike in Utah. It’s one you’ll want to revisit time and time again.

The Silver Lake Loop Trail is less than one mile long and is easily accessible in Big Cottonwood Canyon.
Shelby Hoffman/Alltrails
Drive up the canyon until you see the signs for the Silver Lake Visitor Center. There's usually plenty of parking in the lot.
Early in the season, you can hike the trail wearing just your hiking boots.
arnauld g/Tripadvisor
Depending on the temperature, you may want traction cleats to avoid slipping.
As the season progresses, the snow level in the canyon gets a lot higher.
Sherry B/Tripadvisor
By mid-winter, you'll want to bring snowshoes to navigate the trail. Nordic skiing is also popular here.
Sherry B/Tripadvisor

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The traffic from skiers and snowshoers keeps the snow packed down pretty well, but you can see how deep it gets.
Sherry B/Tripadvisor
After all, you're right next door to both Solitude and Brighton ski resorts!
The best reason to hike Silver Lake in the winter? The peace and quiet you'll experience.
Kami Wall/Alltrails
While this hike is extremely popular and crowded in the summer, it gets much less traffic in the winter (though you'll still see other snowshoers and skiers around). Try to go up on a weekday morning for a quiet hike.
This canyon is full of moose, and you may catch a glimpse of one during your winter excursion.
John N./Tripadvisor
The moose in the canyon are pretty accustomed to hikers and skiers, but you'll want to admire them from afar.
Dress in layers for the changing winter weather, and bring a thermos of hot cocoa to enjoy while you're out on the snow.
Sherry B/Tripadvisor

Have you hiked the Silver Lake Loop trail in the winter? Tell our readers all about this incredible winter hike in Utah!

If you’re ready for some more adventures, take a look at these 8 undeniably fun weekend trips in Utah. You’ll be packing your bags in no time!

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winter hike in Utah

Beth C. | November 16, 2022

What are the best things to do in winter in Utah?

There are so many things to din in winter in Utah, including:

  • Hiking
  • Skiing
  • Ice fishing
  • Dog sledding
  • Bobsledding
  • Snow tubing
  • Taking a horse-drawn sleigh ride
  • Soaking in a geothermal hot spring

 

Does Utah have any hot springs?

Utah has lots of hot springs! Some of the best hot springs in Utah include:

  • Crystal Hot Springs
  • Homestead Crater
  • Inlet Park Hot Springs
  • Diamond Fork/Fifth Water
  • Meadow Hot Springs
  • Mystic Hot Springs
  • Baker Hot Springs

 

Does Utah get much snow?

Winters in Utah are beautiful and typically, pretty snowy. That's especially true in the Cottonwood Canyons, which receive an average of 551 inches annually. This region is also famous for "powder days" which are defined as a 24-hour period that gets at least a foot of snow. It's no surprise, then, that Utah is such a popular destination for winter sports!

What are the most popular ski resorts in Utah?

The most popular ski resorts in Utah include:

  • Deer Valley Resort
  • Snowbird
  • Powder Mountain
  • Park City Mountain
  • Solitude Mountain Resort
  • Snowbasin Resort

 

If you're looking for some affordable ski resorts in Utah, you'll want to check out places such as Nordic Valley, Beaver Mountain Ski Area, and Brian Head Resort. For more information, check out our list of ski resorts in Utah with affordable lift tickets.

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