Conditions Right Now
Use sunset as your turnaround alarm.
Why Hike This
This canyon starts at the edge of a subdivision and turns granite and steep in a hurry, which is why it works as an after-work hike for the south end of the valley. The first quarter to half mile crosses private land before you reach the lower reservoir, roughly 470 yards from the trailhead, so stay on the path. Above the reservoir the climb gets serious, and the Forest Service warns the trail becomes hard to follow in some sections. Sandy City watershed rules apply and no dogs are allowed.
The Trail
Granite canyon to a roaring lower falls.
Pack Loadout (Moderate)
2 liters water, trail shoes, sun layer, snacks, small first-aid kit.
Getting There
Make it a weekend: Sandy Urban Fishery (Fishing, 3 mi) · Tanners Flat Campground (Camping, 6 mi) · Willow Pond (Murray) (Fishing, 8 mi) · Millrace Pond (Taylorsville) (Fishing, 9 mi)
More hikes nearby: Lake Blanche (Hike, 6 mi) · Mount Olympus (Hike, 6 mi) · Donut Falls (Hike, 9 mi) · Grandeur Peak (West) (Hike, 10 mi)
Quick Answers
- How long is the Bells Canyon Waterfall hike?
- 4.6 miles round trip with 1568 feet of elevation gain.
- How hard is Bells Canyon Waterfall?
- Moderate. Kid rating: 3 out of 5.
- When should I hike Bells Canyon Waterfall?
- Best season: April-Nov.
- Why hike Bells Canyon Waterfall?
- It delivers a real mountain canyon straight off a valley street. You pass a small reservoir early, then climb through granite to a waterfall that runs hard in spring melt. Parking is very limited at the old trailhead and there is no overnight parking, so arrive early or use the newer access off Wasatch Boulevard.