Everywhere I look these days, it seems that people are posting pictures of amazing fall colors. We do live in a beautiful state and it's appropriate for us to step outside, take a look around and appreciate when nature shows off. I joined a group of hikers and hit the trails this past week, in search of some great fall colors. Bell Canyon did not disappoint. There is plenty of parking at the trailhead, including clean bathrooms. The first part of the trail is pretty rocky and has a decent elevation gain-poles are helpful, but at the least, have good shoes with some traction. Once you get to the reservoir, it's pretty flat and there are lots of places you can get amazing pictures. Be sure to take some time down by the water-it's so calming and just beautiful. There were some detour signs on the trail, so we didn't get the full experience (not sure why it was closed, but we tried to follow signs until they suddenly stopped. So we turned around and came the way we went.) Overall, it's a beautiful hike and I'd love to come try it again when the trail is open. read more

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We started at the entrance on Wasatch Blvd near the residential area; and then, ended up at the waterfall. It took us about 4 hours to hike approx. 6 miles with short breaks in between for water. It's a mixer of flat, incline, rocky, slippery (snow still out towards end of hike), upward steps, and mini bridges to cross over small water streams. There are surrounding plants and trees, but most are barely blooming. Didn't see any wildlife animals, but saw a few squirrels crossing our paths lol. The hike itself wasn't too hard. I'd rate it intermediate. It was only challenging because the paths towards the end were slippery due to snow still out and melting. It was fun with some close calls. Luckily I found a stick on the way to use. We passed by the lake at the beginning of the hike, which was nice. Once we reached the waterfall, we took a refreshing break; snacked a bit; embraced the beautiful nature; and then, headed back where we started. It was harder to hike down the slippery snow than it was to hike to the waterfall. I'd come back to hike this place during fall to see the vibrant color of the trees. read more

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This review is for Lower Falls Via Bells Canyon Trail which was a ~4.8 miles round trip that took ~3 hours to complete. Trail was narrow for the most part which was a little problematic once it became crowded. As soon as you began the hike, it was a steady incline and becomes somewhat flat. Just before the waterfall; there was an extremely steep and rocky climb to the top. Easy to get wet, the closer you are to the waterfall. Very limited parking at the Bells Canyon Granite Trailhead. There are additional parking adjacent at the Bells Canyon Preservation Trailhead but this takes a slightly different starting point. Otherwise, there was a Bells Canyon Overflow Parking further in. Short video of the hike for those interested! https://youtu.be/cuPqwdPdpM4 read more

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I've been up this canyon quite a few times since I moved to Utah a few years ago and have enjoyed it each and everytime I come. There are a lot of different options for hikers ranging from very easy to difficult. You could spend just a couple hours or half your day hiking. Most notably, if you want a longer hike, you can hike past the reservoir and up to some water falls. This can be a little more difficult though and involves climbing some large rocks for a while. I've also gone up trails that go nearly straight up and I'd suggest wearing spikes depending on the time of year that you're coming. It is unfortunate that dogs aren't allowed, as the initial parts of many trails are ideal for them, but I understand why. Only reason I give this canyon 4 stars where I may give 5 to another is not that it's any less beautiful that others, but it's much closer to town, and I nearly feel like I'm just in some rich persons giant backyard rather than "up in the mountains" read more

What a beautiful hiking trail with beautiful views. I highly recommend! Bring a small backpack, some good shoes, and of course water. So calming and relaxing. read more

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This is a review for the Lower Bells Canyon Reservoir hike from Larry's Trail. We hiked this today (a Friday) and found it to be a fairly easy hike even with a 40-50 pound pack. The trail going up is fairly narrow, so you are going to have a hard time maintaining 6' distance from anyone since there is so much foot traffic up and down. Trail is well maintained and very hikeable even if you bring regular sneakers. You'll hike a few rounds of easy switch backs , and then walk through a long stretch with some nice views of the mountains. Just be careful of the small section with a pretty precipitous drop if you lose your grounding! You'll start ascending again and reach the reservoir (a small lake). Get near the lake or enjoy a view of it from top as you like. It will be pretty crowded up there, but people are respectful enough to maintain a good distance. We ran into some obnoxious groups who were loud and not respectful of everyone's space--just slip, dodge, and walk fast as needed. The only downside to this trail, in light of recent events, is the foot traffic. We passed about 25 people in and out of the trail. Many did not seem very conscientious about social distancing, so practice caution if you're going to hike here--especially the weekends. read more

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I do I have any significant feelings about this hike. It starts with a lot of switchbacks that lead to a lake. This hike is difficult in the summer because almost the whole thing is exposed to the sun and does not have any shade. It is a very dry and dusty hole compared to others in the area. There safe Spots with some babbling brooks, but they aren't real significant compared to others. It's not enough to make me want to do this hike on a regular basis. read more

Probably not a hike that I'll do again if I'm in the area, but I'm glad I did it. During the summer it gets really hot on this hike since there isn't much shade at all. Couple that with a pretty nice incline and you've got yourself a nice, hot, sweaty hike. The view at the top is really nice though, and some critters decided to hang out with us, which was great! Parking is in a small lot right at the base. There is a nice shaded area towards the beginning of the hike on the bridge, which I highly recommend taking advantage of on your way to the top. https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/bell-canyon-sandy?select=czlVz79_Gj-7ppjpVDn0UA&userid=97Dj5h5CQUsWZrEWj3wWOg https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/bell-canyon-sandy?select=gIrhL4XXOcETRk3e5bbWyQ&userid=97Dj5h5CQUsWZrEWj3wWOg read more

Bell Canyon - Hiking Near Me - Sandy, Utah

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Bell's Canyon is not my favorite hike, but I think this is owing mostly to the fact that it's my most frequented one, and not by choice. I've probably hiked to the reservoir 10+ times, and despite my complaints it really is a nice, easy trail if you're looking for something quick, though there isn't really any shade on this portion of the hike, and the trail is quite rocky. It's about a mile round trip, and there's plenty to do once you get there. I usually make my way up to the rocks overlooking the water, but it's also fun to do some exploring down by the reservoir. You'll find ducks and geese, and sometimes even spot fish. Speaking of wildlife, you'll likely come across deer and squirrels at various points on your trip. If you're looking for a lengthier adventure you can make your way up to the waterfall. I think this adds an additional 3 miles round trip, and it's pretty leisurely until the very end, where the incline is quite abrupt. It also requires some climbing over rocks, though no scrambling or anything too difficult. Happily, immediately following that you'll arrive at the waterfall, and it's a really lovely area: nice and cool by the water with moss covered rocks, and birds flying all about. There is a cool, shady forested area with lots of pretty, delicate ferns (I've brought a hammock before), but there are also some open spots with smooth rock and views out over the valley that are perfect for a picnic. You can continue from the waterfall even further to the upper reservoir, which I think is another 3 miles round trip or so, but I've never tried that part of the hike. If you visit during an even barely popular time the parking lot will likely be full. There are restrooms available at the trailhead. In the end it doesn't really deserve my attitude. If you live in the Sandy area and don't want to drive up into Big or Little Cottonwood this hike is perfect, and we are lucky it's so close by. read more

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This is always one of my go to trails!! It's well trafficked and an easy to moderate hike. I like starting from the parking lot at the base of Little Cottonwood canyon, but there are a few other trail heads as well. It is a great hike in the winter, spring, fall and summer. There is a reservoir where you can stop and chill here land have a lunch. Sometimes I just explore around here or hang by the water. Lots of ducks to watch and have seen deer early morning. If you keep going up past the reservoir there's a beautiful waterfall. Definitely a little gem close to the city. For when you don't have time to drive higher up for a hike. read more

Bell Canyon - Reservoir in winter 5am moon still out. - Hiking Near Me - Sandy, Utah

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You have no idea how much I've missed you. It's been a year now since I last saw you, and tonight's visit was bitterwseet: It was goodbye. Me? Oh, I'm not going anywhere, but I hiked up to Bells Canyon tonight and saw up close the inevitable signs that winter is indeed coming and I needed to say goodbye. It's fall now, and beautiful. It's always been beautiful. From the orange tops of trees that flow down to the smooth waters, I will never shake the sight as long as I live. But before we know it the snow will fly and yes, even though you can still make this hike in the winter, I just don't. It's just not the same. I'm sure it's lovely, but it's like being with someone who truly lights up your whole world and whose heart beats with yours, and then having them taken away. No matter how beautiful the winter may be, it's not the same. You're not connected. It's an impostor. I can't spend another winter pining for the warm weather. I can't lay in the blue sheets of my bed thinking about the summer. It doesn't mean I don't love you in the summer, Bells Canyon, it just means that I have made myself so very clear, vulnerable, and raw in the summer and yet winter will come. I have to look forward. It's not my choice but it has to be this way. So I went to Bells Canyon tonight to say goodbye. I wanted to say a lot of things, but as I was making the hike watching the sun set, my mind turned to changes. Day to night. Summer to fall to winter. I can't control any of those things, but I can control what I do in each season, in each hour. I think I had lost sight of that a little, so as I've prepared for the inevitable winter goodbye I've resolved a few things: I'll not apologize for how my heart feels with you, I'll not apologize for hoping for summer days again, and I'll not blame the lake or trail or canyon for welcoming winter. But I have to stop waiting for the weather, or the skies, or outside influences, or even other people to dictate when I start living my dreams again (gardens, and flowers, and hikes, and fresh bread, and chocolates, and picnics with fancy mustard, and taking a year off together to see every small town and mountain hike and national park!) and I need to live them now. I need to live through the winter as if summer never comes again, because moving forward is the only way to be happy. Maybe this is about more than just the short hike to Bells Canyon in Sandy I took tonight. But isn't that what mother nature is for? Isn't that what she does? She changes you. Having this area so close--right there in Sandy--it's almost a double-edged sword. Yes, it's so close, and you could be there in just a few minutes. But looking out to the granite cliffs, you imagine her, what she's doing, what's going on around her shores at any moment but you can't be there. So close. That changes you. Goodbye, summer days! My hope now looks forward. So while I hope to take the hike to Bells Canyon in the spring, I know it may never happen. There's so much time between now and then, and who knows where I'd be if and when the weather warms. If you're ready, I trust you'd tell me, sweet lakey. But for now I've had to say my goodbye. read more

Bell Canyon - Early summer before all the leaves are out. - Hiking Near Me - Sandy, Utah

My favorite hike so far! We started from the bottom and climbed to the waterfall. Roundtrip according to my phone was 5 miles. Seems like an easy hike until you go past the lake and up towards the waterfall. It can be quite steep and hard to climb in certain parts. We got to the bridge and thought we were almost there... but we weren't. You still have to climb quite a distance and parts are very narrow- just saying since people were ignoring social distancing and I was kind of frustrated about that. BUT the peacefulness and beauty of the hike is worth it. The area near the falls is a little slippery and can be tenuous. Caught the sunset on the way down and it was beautiful! read more

Bell Canyon - Sunset by the lake - Hiking Near Me - Sandy, Utah

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Beautiful hike! It's pretty well marked ! I went in October and it was definitely cold! Bring some layers just in case and make sure to make it to the waterfall! read more

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I came here to do the waterfall hike, and it was tough (although I did do almost ten miles before this hike on the same day). The weather was hot and there wasn't really much shade along the way especially from the parking area to the reservoir. There was more shade once the Bell Canyon Trail started towards the waterfall, and the end was quite steep with rocks. The waterfall was nice, and walking closer to it was very refreshing as I could feel the waterfall's spray. Short and sweet hike, but steep! read more

Have you ever have one of those days when you thought a hike was going to be a total of four miles when actually it was 4.73 miles? Before we went on the hike I took the liberty to research how long the hike would be all the way to the waterfall. The website said about 4 miles from the bottom to the waterfall and back. When we finished the trail I looked at my Garmin and it said 4.73 miles. No wonder I was tired. With all that said, the reservoir was gorgeous, and the wildlife really added to the experience. We saw geese, ducks, butterflies, and squirrels. The bridge in the middle was a beautiful spot to take a pic, and then the real climbing begins. Just before you reach the waterfall sign there is some steep climbing. My daughter did find it challenging, but insisted to make it to the waterfall. For some this hike will be a test of your endurance and determination, but it is worth it. I give everyone kudos who finish the entire four plus miles. Once you see the waterfall, you will be astonished! It's breath taking especially this time of year when the snow is melting and Spring is here. This was our first trip to Bell Canyon, but we won't forget it. Amazing! read more

Bell Canyon - Bell Canyon Waterfall - Hiking Near Me - Sandy, Utah

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I love this hike! I've been here in the spring and summer, and it is beautiful regardless of season. The first half that ends at the reservoir is super easy (both trailheads) compared to the second half that takes you up to the big waterfall (read: much steeper and rockier than expected and does not feel like 0.9 mi lol). *no doggos allowed read more

The Bells Canyon Hike basically has three main stopping points. A first reservoir, a waterfall and a second reservoir. We only ever go as far as the first reservoir because we hike with kids, but I hear the waterfall is beautiful and definitely worth the effort of getting there if you're up for it. I've also heard that the hike to the second reservoir is very difficult and only worth the time it takes if you plan on camping there overnight. There are 2 different trailheads that will get you to the first reservoir. The first one is called the Granite Trailhead located on Little Cottonwood Road (94th South) one block east of Wasatch, and the other is the Boulders Trailhead on Wasatch just one block south of Little Cottonwood Road. The Granite Trail is a little longer but a lot less steep than the other one, so if you're hiking with small kids, I'd recommend going this route. As for the hike to the first reservoir, I have to say, the terrain itself is not very lush and scenic. There aren't a lot of trees, and there's definitely not a lot of shade, so it's probably best to go on this hike early in the day or in spring or fall. But the views of the valley along this trail more than make up for the lack of scenic vegetation. Once you get to the reservoir, plan on staying for a while. It's a great place to find a shady spot, grab a drink and cool off. There are plenty of "no swimming" signs posted but I always seem to see people swimming-- a little disturbing considering this is my direct culinary water supply... You will see a service road up near the reservoir. If you do want to continue up to the waterfall, follow the service road until you see the Bells Canyon Trail marker on your right. I hope to be able to write a review update soon after I make that hike myself! read more

Bell Canyon - First reservoir up Bells Canyon - Hiking Near Me - Sandy, Utah

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One of the things I really wanted to do while visiting the SLC area was go out on a beautiful hike. And this was definitely a beautiful hike. Surrounded by trees, nature, and the fresh Utah mountain air. A group of us packed two cars and came here for a nice easy hike, only up to the first reservoir. There's a parking area along Wasatch Blvd. And the easier about 1/2 mile hike to the first reservoir is ...... It's really wasn't too easy cause it was a incline hike upwards going towards the first reservoir but easy enough for anyone to hike. The view of everything down below was awesome. Once you get to the reservoir I heard there's even more to the hike but we stopped just at that first one, it was plenty for all of us. If you follow the trail right of the reservoir you will find a more private area where there's water flowing into the reservoir, the water is so refreshing right there. And of course that where we all decided to dive in. At most parts its shallow enough to walk or tip toe but its always good to know how to swim before diving in. You could probably swim across the whole thing. The water was cold and refreshing for the remainder of the hike or the hike back down to the start. There were ducks swimming and other people fishing. Also when hiking back down watch out for attacking sprinklers. If it goes off and it gets very slippery especial going down hill. read more

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GORGEOUS HIKE - especially right now, while everything is really green. the lake is really close nearby, whereas the falls are probably about 2 miles up from the lake - totally worth it, just follow the noise of the water & you'll be fine (especially since they don't really mark the trails) read more

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Gorgeous hike with a mid stop to a beautiful lake or continue on up to the breathtaking falls. This hike is considered on the "easy" spectrum for children due to a google search. I don't know who was on crack when they advised that, but it's definitely not on the easy scale for children. Extremely rocky terrain and a decent incline for 90% of the hike. Perfect for kids 6+ and adults however. The way down will require assistance for the little ones. It doesn't disappoint on the wow factor when you arrive at either destination. Utah is literally an oasis playground for the outdoor enthusiast. The fact that we have places like this, among MANY in our backyard never ceases to leave me in awe. I love you Utah. read more

Bell Canyon - Hiking Near Me - Sandy, Utah

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Through the valley, forest, rocks, and falls we go! Visit Bell Canyon through the seasons to witness the beautiful transformation of life itself. Something awaits for you here. Enjoy your hike and share pictures! read more

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This is a beautiful hike. We usually park off of wasatch drive but there is another lot off of little cottonwood canyon road. Be prepared for good change in incline and rocky steps. It's about 4.5 miles round trip but usually takes 3 hours due to the incline. Make sure to bring snacks and go early in the hot summer months. read more

Bell Canyon - Bells canyon in the fall. The most beautiful time to visit. - Hiking Near Me - Sandy, Utah

The hike starts from an area with good parking, restrooms, and a water fountain. The short hike to the "catch and release" lake is easy. When arriving at the lake veer left and the trail to the waterfall is well marked. The hike is worth the trek and I would consider it easy to moderate. The rocks can be challenging in some areas but not a problem if you're sure footed. I recommend wearing hiking shoes with good ankle support. Enjoy the peaceful serenity, beautiful scenery, and a good sweat! read more

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About a 20 min hike to the reservoiur. The view is quite majestic. I do need to come back for the full hike to the falls. Went mid morning on a Saturday and there was plenty of street parking. Despite the recent rain/floods in the area, there wasn't as much water as expected. read more

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This is a great hike. We just completed the hike to the waterfall with our kids in packs, I carry my seven month old and my husband carries our three year old. I must say this is the longest hike we have been on so far and it was tough but so worth it. I feel bad for those who make only to the reservoir and may I suggest if you have a little more energy to head up to the first foot bridge. At the first foot bridge you at least get some nice bubbly stream views and more shade. The trailhead we started out from was on Little Cottonwood Rd on the right just east of Wasatch Blvd. This is a five star trail head when it comes to trail heads, there is a bathroom, drinking fountain, a real parking lot and a little patch of grass. I'm not sure why people need a patch of grass but its there and I saw a couple relaxing on it on my way back down. I think it something like 5.6 miles roundtrip to the waterfall. The .7 miles to the reservoir are the hottest given low elevation and lack of shade. After you get past the reservoir and especially once you are past the footbridge you get mostly shade. There is a huge granite stair case that challenges you just before the waterfall so if you get there don't turn around just keep going. The trail can be a little confusing at times as forks appear but a little common sense goes a long way and you will most likely just end up back tracking if you take the wrong fork and dead end in the creek. Once you get to the waterfalls it a bit steep getting down and if you are carrying a heavy pack I would suggest unloading so you have better balance on the way down. Overall fantastic hike, beautiful canyon, beautiful waterfall. Sorry in advance for the terrible family photo but I forgot to take a pic of the waterfall on its own. read more

Bell Canyon - Waterfall in Bells Canyon - Hiking Near Me - Sandy, Utah

My family favorite hiking place. We lived nearby, so we come down here really often, generally Sunday afternoon. The hiking is really good and my family and I normally stopped in the lake. I personally only tried once to the water falls. The reason on why we liked this hiking trail is because it has so many different scenery from trail-up, trail down, walking across the river through a bridge and ended-up in the lake whereby we saw people fly fishing with success of catching the fish. The trail to the lake is not too far that will make your legs sore, but it is just nice for a good afternoon work-out. read more

Oh wow this trail was beautiful but not kid friendly as listed in other reviews on this page. We took our 3 year old hiking here and couldn't make it to the top as it was very narrow rocky. read more

This hike is beautiful, a great view of the valley from above. In the summer we start early to beat the heat. This hike doesn't mess around. It's early switchbacks, rocky terrain, lakes, rivers and meadows only persuade you further on to the waterfall. The end is just beyond a tough, long and steep rocky stairway... just through an amazing leg & butt workout. But you can do it. Keep going! You'll be glad you did. Don't forget to bring healthy snacks and water. Not recommend for the faint of heart. read more

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Bell's Canyon is one of my absolute favorite hikes! It's great for the family if you just want to head up to the lake. It gets a little harder when you head up to the waterfalls, but it is worth it! Beautiful views and not too hard. Gets a little busy on the weekends parking might be hard to get. read more

This was my first time hiking here and I can say I thoroughly enjoyed it! It was great for the kids (two 6-year olds and an ambitious 2 1/2 yr old)! We took the Granite Trailhead and the incline was fine, just rocky. The trail is very narrow as well so make sure the kids are on the inner side and have comfortable shoes on. There is some shade on the way up and great scenic views of the large homes. We brought water and light snacks so that once we reached the reservoir we can take a break and splash in the super cold water to cool down. I never burned before and I think this trail got me! read more

Beware: Don't leave valuables in your car. Did the hike to Bells Falls from 6:30-10pm about a week ago. I was parked in the lot and the two ladies I was with had to park on the roadside. When we returned from the hike they found both cars their windows had been broken and items stolen. The hike itself. Difficult! Bring lots of water and a snack. Bring a headlamp if hiking in late afternoon/evening. It took us about 3 hours to hike in and out and that was with only about 15 minutes spent at the big falls. read more

Perfect moderate hike. Not shaded at all so can get hot so bring water. Beautiful in the Fall! Great views of the valley and the lake is peaceful. read more

Love the steep inclines at the beginning of the hike and the view of the valley from the top. Pleasant pond at the top as well. Waterfall hike is beyond the pond. Never been before. read more

Fun hike that is enjoyable for young and old. Beautiful lake and if you go further, there is a set of a couple waterfalls. The upper reservoir is a long hike so go with a lot of water and take a lunch. read more

Beautiful hike! Although when we went, the reservoir was quite dry. The lower waterfall was very beautiful and worth the hike. Lots of rocks so wear very comfortable shoes! read more

I loved this hiking trail! It was beautiful and view is gorgeous. I love hiking up to the waterfall, it a long trek up to waterfall but very worth it! read more

The waterfall was so beautiful! It is a really steep hike and intense. I am short so I had to literally lunge my way up to the waterfall. Such a beautiful view and we'll worth it. read more

Dogs must be on leash which is probably one of the very few hiking areas with this rule in slc of this size. If u don't obey that the ranger will chase you down in a truck to give you a ticket. Beyond unfriendly dog rules. Go to another spot. read more

The first waterfall was a nice hike then we decided to go for the second, the level of difficulty increased significantly. There were people running, people carrying kids in backpacks, its great for everyone! We hiked for 3 1/2 hours and then ran into someone that said the best view was still snowed in and another 2 hrs away. We will defiantly be back with camping gear! read more

Great hike. The falls are worth getting too. Perfect Saturday hike and no snow. Towards the end it got steep but not bad. Parking was a bit tricky. read more