Easy hike cuts from the White Pine Trail to a large cascade waterfall.
If you're looking for an easy hike in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Gloria Falls may be the perfect fit.
The hike begins at the White Pine Trailhead, which is often filled by 7 AM with hikers heading to White Pine Lake or Red Pine Lake. You're probably best off just parking at any available spot along the road.
You'll hike about one and a quarter miles from the White Pine/Red Pine trail until you come to a small bridge. Cross the bridge and cut immediately to the left.
The trail can be a little challenging to spot in certain places, but if you simply follow the creek, you'll be there in no time.
The falls is much larger than it appears in photos and it's a bit surprising given the size of the creek below.
You can climb to the top of the waterfall to the right, but you must use caution as the rocks are extremely slippery.
Once you've had a chance to explore the falls, you'll head back the way from which you came. This hike requires little effort and provides a huge payoff, so if it's a hot day, this may be the spot for you!
Know Before You Go
As you head towards the waterfall, ensure that the creek is on your left or you're on the wrong side of the trail.
The rocks at the base of the falls can be extremely slippery, so wear shoes with lots or traction or walk gently atop them.
Parking at the trailhead is likely to fill up by 7 AM, so you're likely to park along the road.
If you're particularly ambitious, you can continue hiking to Red Pine Lake.
Resources
Video
Note in the video below, my wife and I take the incorrect path to the left of the creek (when facing the waterfall). You'll want to take the path to the right.
Location
Found just a short drive up Route 210 in Little Cottonwood Canyon, closer to the Salt Lake City side. You'll be looking for the White Pine Trailed. Limited parking in the lot, and most hikers will park on the road near the trailhead.
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