High elevations don't guarantee cool weather, though, because even in the mountains summer temps can go above ninety degrees. The five Wasatch hiking destinations listed below are some of the best if you truly want to beat the Utah heat.
Exercising in summer requires caution, and About.com's hiking expert Matt Jaffe has some excellent advice for safe hiking in hot weather that includes carrying extra water and wearing loose, light clothing.
Another thing I recommend is a cooling towel like the Frogg Toggs Chilly Pad. Frogg Toggs has not paid me to promote their product - I just happen to own one and think it's the greatest thing ever!
Stewart Falls, Provo Canyon
Stewart Falls is a gorgeous 200-foot waterfall that is not difficult to get to. After making the 1 3/4 mile hike to the falls, you can chill in the icy-cold water before making the return trip.
The trailhead is at Aspen Grove on the Alpine Loop Highway. There is a $6 use fee for the area. The trail travels through Aspen forest, and at the end there is a steep descent to the base of the falls.More »
Timpanogos Cave, American Fork Canyon
Spectacular Timpanogos Cave in American Fork Canyon is a chilly 45 degrees year round. Not only is the refrigerator-like interior of the cave a welcome relief from summer heat, but the mineral formations are beautiful, eerie and fascinating.
Ranger-guided tours through the cave are offered May through October. Make reservations in advance through the National Park Service website.
The trail to the cave is paved and is 1 1/2 miles long. It's steep, climbing more than 1000 vertical feet. Once in the cave, you will want a light jacket.
The cost is $4-$8. The total time to tour the visitor's center, hike to the cave, tour the cave and hike down is 3-4 hours. The tour is recommended for all ages as fitness levels allow. No strollers or wheelchairs are allowed on the trail because of the steepness.More »
Silver Lake, American Fork Canyon
Silver Lake in American Fork Canyon is a great intermediate hike with the option for a refreshing swim at the top. It's part of a small chain of lakes: Silver Lake Flat Reservoir at the bottom, Silver Lake in the middle, and Silver Glance Lake at the top.
The trail starts at Silver Lake Flat Reservoir above Granite Flats Campground. It's accessed by a winding dirt and gravel road, which can be rough for low clearance vehicles.
The trail is about 2.25 miles each way and crosses Silver Creek a few times. It gains about 1450 feet in elevation. It's moderately steep and could be challenging if you are not used to hiking or altitude.
The trail is mostly exposed to sun, so if you are hiking in summer you will probably welcome the opportunity to swim in the refreshing cold lake. If you have time and energy to spare, you can continue another 3/4 mile to the smaller Silver Glance Lake.More »
Donut Falls, Big Cottonwood
Donut Falls is one of the easiest and most entertaining hikes near Salt Lake City, and one of the most popular. The trail is only 3/4 mile each way and gains about 450 feet in elevation. The trailhead is about ten miles up Big Cottonwood Canyon, near the Jordan Pines picnic area.
The Donut Falls trail is almost always crowded, but if you go early in the morning you will see fewer people. You will have to walk in water at times, so the ideal footwear would be waterproof hiking boots or hiking sandals like Tevas or Chacos. Running shoes are fine, however.
Once you get to the end of the trail, you can climb the base of the falls and enter the cave or grotto where the stream falls through the doughnut-shaped hole that gives the place its name. It's a little hard to describe, but if you click on the link above, you will see a photo that shows the whole area including the grotto and the water flowing into the hole from above.
Climbing to the grotto and seeing the "donut" is absolutely not necessary to enjoy the hike, but it's worth it if you are up for the challenge. It's not recommended in high water or for young children! The Cottonwood creeks are more powerful than they look, and the rocks are slippery. It's usually safe for adults and children twelve and older.
The hike is fun and family friendly, but there are hazards that have caused injuries and even death. Do not climb or allow children to climb the cliffs around the falls! Many people have become stranded and either fallen or had to be rescued. Be cautious and have fun!More »
Big Water/Little Water Loop, Millcreek Canyon
This hike is coolest early in the morning, before 8 a.m. There is no swimming, but there are trees for shade and a creek for splashing.
The Big Water/Little Water loop is about 3.3 miles and gains about 800 feet of elevation. Start at the Lower Big Water trailhead and parking area. Take the Big Water trail uphill for about 1 1/2 miles. At the intersection, change to the Great Western Trail briefly, and after about .10 miles you will find the Little Water trail. This is where you begin your descent. Follow the Little Water trail down to the Upper Big Water trailhead, and from there it's a short walk back to the Lower Big Water trailhead and parking area.
Dogs are allowed in Millcreek Canyon, and on odd-numbered days dogs can be off leash. The entrance to Millcreek Canyon is on the east bench of Salt Lake City, at 3500 East and 3800 South. It's just a few miles from the city but feels a world away.
There's a $3 per car entrance fee for Millcreek Canyon.More »