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Writer's pictureDrew Cieszynski

Waterfall Canyon - Malan Falls

Hike up a canyon to see a towering waterfall and enjoy the mist!

Malan Falls in Waterfall Canyon in Ogden, Utah

After visiting the Lagoon Amusement Park and paying a visit to the Farmington Bigfoot, we decided to head north in search of another fantastic waterfall.


It was a weekday afternoon during our visit, so parking at the 29th Street trailhead was plentiful.


At the trailhead, you'll find a small shelter designating the start of the trail. When we had read about this trail initially, some of the write-ups said there was quite a bit of shade on the trail. That definitely wasn't true for the first portion of the hike. From the trailhead, you'll start a gradual incline with minimal reprieve from the sun.


After a stretch that is a pretty rough incline, you'll hear the sound of running water and cross a small bridge. From here, the trail gets slightly more technical, but now has shade and a water source to cool off with during the warmer months. Here, it's easy to get turned in the wrong direction, but you want to make sure you cut left after the bridge.


It's here that you're also likely to encounter much more congestion as the pace moves a bit slower with all of the rocks on the trail.

Water crossing with small bridge in Waterfall Canyon - Ogden, Utah

You'll continue navigating along the water and notice some massive rock slides to the left of the trail. You'll continue to gain elevation along the trail and step over another small water crossing.


At the end of a lengthy 1.2 miles, you're likely to see some congestion at the base of the waterfall and you'll know you've made it.


While the photos give the appearance of a relatively thin waterfall, it's rather substantial up close. Since the drop starts well above the base, much of the water spreads out to a mist rather than a single clump of falling water.


The area at the base is pretty wide, so even on a relatively crowded day, you can find a nook for yourself.


My wife commented that it may have been her favorite waterfall in Utah because it's one that you can stand beneath and get refreshed without getting dumped on/soaked. Standing at the base and looking upward was truly a fantastic experience.


Know Before You Go

  • Free, but limited paved parking spots at the trailhead.

  • The first part of the hike has some unrelenting sun, so be sure to include sunblock and some water.

  • The second part of the hike is unforgiving on your feet with rocky terrain, so wear appropriate footwear.

  • We did encounter an infant snake on the trail and I have to assume there are many adults as well. The second part of the trail has quite a bit of vegetation to hide in, so be aware of your surroundings.

  • Looking for a drink after your hike, try Ogden River Brewing or Talisman Brewing.

Resources



Video



Location


Not too far from Weber State University, it's to the east of Route 89 and the 15 Freeway in Ogden. Roughly 50 parking spots at the trailhead.


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