10 Best Utah Backpacking Trips
Utah is packed with public lands, rugged terrain, and diverse landscapes. From alpine routes to desert slot canyons, the state offers some of the best backpacking opportunities in the West. Whether you're looking for a weekend trip or a weeklong challenge, here are 10 of the top backpacking destinations across Utah.
1. Uinta Highline Trail
Location: Uinta Mountains
Distance: ~104 miles (can be sectioned)
Duration: 7–10 days
The Uinta Highline Trail crosses one of Utah’s only east-west mountain ranges. Backpackers will pass alpine lakes, open meadows, and rugged peaks above 10,000 feet. It’s best tackled in summer, once the snow melts.
2. Coyote Gulch
Location: Grand Staircase–Escalante
Distance: 20–30 miles, depending on the route
Duration: 2–3 days
Coyote Gulch is one of the most scenic desert canyons in Utah. With flowing water, natural arches, and towering canyon walls, it’s a popular early spring or fall backpacking destination. There are several access points to choose from.
3. Kings Peak
Location: Uinta Mountains
Distance: 27 miles round trip
Duration: 2–3 days
Kings Peak is the highest point in Utah at 13,528 feet. The hike is a challenging mix of long miles and high elevation, but many backpackers complete it over a long weekend. Best hiked from July through September.
4. Zion Narrows Top-Down
Location: Zion National Park
Distance: 16 miles
Duration: 1–2 days (permit required)
Backpacking the Narrows from the top down offers a unique way to experience one of Zion’s most iconic hikes. Expect to hike in water for most of the route, with towering canyon walls on both sides.
5. Boulder Mail Trail
Location: Between Escalante and Boulder
Distance: 16.5 miles
Duration: 2–3 days
This historic mail route crosses slickrock, washes, and canyons in the Escalante region. While not as famous as other routes, it offers solitude and unique terrain. Best in spring or fall.
6. Dark Canyon Wilderness
Location: Southeast Utah
Distance: Varies (loop and out-and-back options)
Duration: 3–5 days
Dark Canyon offers remote solitude in a red rock setting. Permits are not currently required, but water availability and rugged conditions make it a true backcountry experience. Research water sources in advance.
7. Bryce Canyon Under-the-Rim Trail
Location: Bryce Canyon National Park
Distance: 23 miles
Duration: 2–3 days (permit required)
This lesser-known route travels below the famous Bryce amphitheater. You'll see hoodoos, forested plateaus, and sweeping views without the usual crowds. Several backcountry campsites are available along the trail.
8. Amethyst Basin
Location: Uinta Mountains
Distance: ~13 miles round trip
Duration: 2 days
Amethyst Basin is a good option for a short weekend backpacking trip in the Uintas. The lake at the top is a popular basecamp for fishing and relaxing, and the trail features stream crossings and dense forest.
9. Chesler Park Loop
Location: Canyonlands National Park (Needles District)
Distance: ~11 miles
Duration: 1–2 days (permit required)
Chesler Park is a backpacker favorite in the Needles District of Canyonlands. The loop winds through narrow passages, open parks, and sandstone spires. Good for spring or fall travel.
10. La Verkin Creek Trail to Kolob Arch
Location: Zion National Park (Kolob Canyons)
Distance: 14 miles round trip
Duration: 2 days (permit required for camping)
This quieter part of Zion offers access to one of the largest natural arches in the world. The trail follows a creek through pine and juniper forest, ending at the base of Kolob Arch.
Tips Before You Go
Permits: Many of these routes are in national parks or wilderness areas. Always check for required permits.
Seasons: High elevation trails are best in summer; desert routes shine in spring and fall.
Water: Some trails have limited water access. Always check current conditions.
Weather: Utah’s weather can shift quickly. Pack layers and check forecasts ahead of time.
Looking for Your Own Land Base in Utah?
If you’re interested in owning land near these backpacking spots, check out our listings in Duchesne, Fruitland, and Tabiona. Many of our properties offer easy access to the Uintas and are a short drive from top trailheads.