Hike to Bell Canyon's Waterfall
Sandy, Utah
Details
Distance
4 miles
Elevation Gain
1500 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Eric Bennett
Bell Canyon Waterfall is a scenic hike or trail run, which makes for a great weekday adventure. During summer months, head here after work for stunning sunset views.
If you keep a steady pace, the hike takes about an hour each way, so allow time when trying to catch the sunset. The hike is pretty easy until right before you reach the falls, where there is a big, steep hill you have to climb.
From the parking lot/trailhead, head up the path and head left when you arrive at the reservoir, so that the water is on your right. You will see a "trail" sign on the left of the path, follow this small trail all the way and you will cross a bridge over the stream at some point and then you will come to the bottom of a steep, rocky hill. At the top of the hill, head left around the big tree and continue straight until you hear/see the falls.
Be careful when maneuvering around the falls, especially in the dark; the rocks and dirt get really slippery and wet. You can get a great view of the sunset just on top of the falls. Camping is prohibited here and dogs are not allowed as it is Sandy's Watershed.
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Reviews
This hike was beautiful, the falls, the valley views, the reservoir mid-hike, the views of the mountains, the meadows, the stream, and the forests combine to make a spectacular hike. However, this hike is extremely popular among locals and if hiking it in the middle of the day you should expect a good crowd and very little seclusion. It is a moderately difficult hike, particularly the last half mile, but not too difficult for many to handle.
3.0
This has been one of my favorite short hikes this season.
5.0
This is a great family hike with a destination that's hard to beat. The falls are absolutely massive during runoff. The final climb is steep and challenging but my 8 year made it with some encouragement. Push your kids a little and they'll surprise you with what they can handle.
5.0
This was a beautiful hike, but it was not easy, the beginning of the hike is pretty laid back but once you get to the turn off for the Falls it becomes very difficult! I would recommend this hike to anyone though, the top gives a great view of SLC and the falls are marvelous.
4.0
This hike was awesome! My fiancé and I did it in early October, and the changing fall foliage was spectacular!! As described the first few switchbacks and middle part are pretty easy going, but once you make it to the turn off sign for the falls, and through the following aspen grove, the hike is no joke! Certainly worth the climb though! (Especially if you’re a photographer) The falls and the view of the canyon are amazing! We went up early morning, and the reservoir was beautifully still and reflective. And the morning also makes the hike cool enough for a simple jacket. Highly recommended for all levels of hiker! Just go at your own pace and let faster hikers pass through.
5.0
This is one of my favorite hikes in Utah! The scenery can't be beat & the falls are unreal, especially this year with all the spring runoff right now. The last half mile before the falls is basically straight up and is pretty hard but so so worth it once you're done. Definitely recommend it.
5.0
This was a great hike. The very beginning and very end are the steepest while the middle section is relatively tame. I'm an avid hiker and the end was still quite the workout for my legs! The falls are incredible. It was a nice surprise to have such a beautiful view of the valley as well.
5.0
My wife and I moved here two weeks ago from Pennsylvania, and this was the first chance we had to get out for a hike! Be warned, round trip from the lot is almost 6.5 miles, and that last 3/4 of a mile or so seemed (at least to an east coast kid) to be harder than beginner. View was awesome, and I'll definitely be back up there soon to see what's beyond the waterfall!
4.0
A nice moderate hike to one of the Wasatch Mountains more known waterfalls. Well worth the hike.
4.0
I love this trail! This trail is a great one to run if you're up for the challenge! The shorter hike to the lake is a good family activity as it is pretty short. Hiking to the falls is considerably more difficult but well worth the extra effort!
5.0
Leave No Trace
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Nearby
Hike South Thunder Mountain via Bell Canyon
Hike and Fish Upper Bell Canyon Reservoir
Fishing Big Cottonwood Creek
Hike to Big Cottonwood Canyon's Hidden Falls
Rock Climbing at Dogwood
Cycle Big Cottonwood Canyon
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