Heugh’s Canyon Waterfall

A moderate hike in Salt Lake Valley leads to a really nice waterfall, and we can help you find it. Heugh’s Canyon Waterfall is about 35 feet tall and 20 feet wide. The water was a slow trickle when we visited in November, but there is at least some flow year-round.

Hike Info:

  • Distance: 3.5 miles
  • Rating: Moderate to difficult for kids
  • Elevation Gain: 1942 feet
  • Dog Friendly: Yes
  • Tips: This hike is steep and requires climbing over boulders, so it is not recommend for toddlers.
  • Extra Tip: This trail is famous for rattlesnakes. Since we hiked in the fall, we did not see any, but please be careful when hiking this trail, especially with kids.

Heugh’s Canyon hike is considered moderate because it is fairly steep, even though the distance isn’t that long at 3.5 miles. There is also some scrambling and a little bushwhacking right at the end to reach the base of the waterfall. This is definitely not a toddler-friendly hike.

The trail in Heugh’s Canyon runs right along the old water pipe and it’s steep!!!

The trailhead for Heugh’s Canyon is on Wasatch Blvd at about 6200 South. Driving south, we passed East Canyon Cove on the east side of the road, and the parking area is immediately after it. There is even a trailhead parking sign that notes it is for Heugh’s Canyon. (Note: Parking in the neighborhood will get you towed.) Leave your vehicle and walk north to East Canyon Cove. Follow it up the hill and turn left on Oak Canyon. A short walk along the sidewalk takes you to Canyon Winds. Turn right and you’ll walk right to the trailhead. Though it is steep in the neighborhoods, it is under half a mile to the trailhead from the parking area.

Park just south of Canyon Cove in the designated parking spots.
After walking through the neighborhood, the trail starts off in this driveway.

The trail begins right in someone’s driveway, but it is easy to follow. After you pass the house, it immediately turns in to a traditional trail. Believe it or not, the trail is actually less steep once it starts into the canyon. The trees hover close and there is some shade. The trail follows the stream on the right, which eventually becomes Heugh’s Canyon Waterfall a mile and a half up the trail.

The oak trees are thick and provide some shade.
The path is consistently steep for nearly two miles.
We were a little late for Fall colors, but there were a few lingering reds.

It is rocky, and there are some steep parts, so take it slow. We came across a little mud, even in the Fall, so if you hike early in the year, don’t wear your best shoes. This trail also receives fairly heavy traffic. Most people we passed had dogs, but we didn’t see any messes along the trail, so thanks for being responsible owners!

The trail continues to climb with short level spots, and it is easy to follow. Eventually it comes to a junction with a sign pointing to the left for Bonneville Shoreline Trail. Continue to the right. After a few more minutes the trail comes to the first small bridge. When you see the first bridge, you’re getting close, so don’t give up!

The Bonneville Shoreline Trail heads off to the left. Stay right, though.
There are two small bridges. No water flowed when we were there, but the waterfall was still running.

Right after the second bridge there is a steep climb. It only lasts about 50 yards, but it is a real leg-burner after the nearly two miles that you’ve walked so far. When you finally reach level ground, you’ll find yourself at the bottom of a large boulder field.

The hike is beautiful along the way, so go slowly and enjoy it.
Cross the second bridge and after a steep climb, you’ll come to this boulder field. The waterfall can be heard from this point.

The trail disappears at this point, and without help, we wouldn’t have been able to find the waterfall. Luckily, someone pointed us in the right direction. Face right looking across the boulder field. There is a cut in the canyon wall across the field, and that’s where the waterfall lies. Cross the boulder field without hiking up or down and find your way to the rock wall on the other side of the boulder field. Then follow the wall back to your right. Suddenly you turn a corner and the waterfall is right in front of you. If it’s the right time of year, you’ll be able to hear it as you approach.

Follow the boulders across to the flat rock. Then turn into the canyon.
This is us going along the base of the rock wall. My older son is gazing at the waterfall.
It’s a beautiful sight, tucked back in among the rocks.
It’s very slick, but you can get right up close.

The trail back to the car is all downhill, and you’ll need it after the steep climb up. But Heugh’s Canyon waterfall is beautiful and refreshing. It’s another of Utah’s hidden treasures! We can’t wait to try it in the spring. For other favorite waterfalls in Utah, check out our Easy Waterfall Hikes or our Moderate Waterfall Hikes.

My boys enjoyed the boulder field almost as much as the waterfall.
We loved how adventurous this trail was. The boys loved climbing and exploring.

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This Post Has 2 Comments

  1. Amber

    This is a great hike, but is famous for rattlesnakes. Make sure to take care and keep an eye on your kids when you go.

    1. Natalie Ockey

      Thanks for the information. Since we hiked in the fall, we didn’t seen any snakes, but we will definitely be careful!