Hike to Horsetail Falls and Box Elder Peak

From the trailhead to Horsetail Falls in Alpine UT it's a 1.9 mile (1600') climb, and this in and of itself is a great out-n-back hike. The trail is rocky and relatively steep, and very few people venture on past Horsetail Falls. Specifically, during this segment of the hike the trail is also used for horse traffic, so be aware of the large droppings you will encounter from time to time.

Leading up to the Falls you will meander back into more shaded vegetation, criss-cross streams, and at the 1.7 mile marker you will find a viewpoint of the falls off to the left. Stop here for some great photos, but then continue on the trail for another 0.2 miles (to the junction for Box Elder) and scurry towards the falls for a better/up close feel.

After finding refreshment in the falls, head to the south at the previously mentioned junction for 0.3 miles (250' climb) to North Mountain junction. This short segment is much like the first: rocky with big boulders in the trail, and a pretty good incline.

In another 0.9 miles (820') you'll come to a beautiful green meadow at Box Elder Junction. This is a great landmark to reach because it marks the spot at which you've escaped the previously horrible trail conditions and are now on to greener pastures and beautiful sights of the mountains and valleys all around. At this point you can continue east for the north saddle, or turn right for the more difficult south saddle approach (which we did).

For the next 2.7 miles (1810') the hike heads south through the meadow towards Box Elder Peak, meandering its way to the west side of the mountain and providing excellent views of the entire valley and Utah Lake to the south/southwest, and additional views of Lone Peak and surrounding mountains to the north.

Upon reaching the saddle, you can now see Tibble Fork Reservoir on the east side of Box Elder. This might be a good spot to rest before the final climb. The last push is what separates the boys from the men: 0.5 miles (940') to reach the summit. The summit push was literally hellish--pushing up loose shale on a ridiculously steep grade isn't the most ideal hiking condition--but once you reach the top and enjoy the 360º views of the amazing Wasatch Range, it's definitely a push that's well worth the reward.