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Donut Falls Trail

Wasatch National Forest, Utah · 3 min read

Distance
3 mi
Elevation Gain
450 ft
Difficulty
easy
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
May through October
Est. Time
1.5-2 hours
Dog Friendly
No
Kid Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
1 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
None
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • A waterfall with a literal donut-shaped hole the creek flows through
  • Shortest approach to a dramatic Wasatch waterfall, ideal for families and beginners
  • The creek flows through a limestone cavern beneath the falls
  • One of the most photographed features in Big Cottonwood Canyon
  • Dogs not permitted (Big Cottonwood Canyon watershed restriction)
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Overview

Donut Falls is the most popular easy hike in Big Cottonwood Canyon and one of the most photographed features in the Wasatch National Forest. The waterfall itself is genuinely unusual: a circular hole through which the creek drops, giving it the appearance of water flowing through a donut. The hole is formed by limestone erosion and is about 4 feet in diameter.

The 3.0-mile round trip has minimal elevation gain, making it the most accessible waterfall hike in the Salt Lake area. The trade-off is crowds: on summer weekends, expect a line to view and photograph the falls.

Dogs are not permitted. Big Cottonwood Canyon is a protected watershed.

The Route

Miles 0 to 1.5: Cardiff Fork. The trail follows Cardiff Fork of Big Cottonwood Creek upstream through a broad, forested valley. The terrain is gentle with several informal creek crossings. The falls come into view at the end of the canyon.

The falls: The creek drops through the limestone arch and falls about 20 feet into a pool. A side path scrambles up to view the falls from above. The route to the top of the falls requires scrambling on slippery rock; proceed with care.

When to Visit

May through October. Late May and June offer the most dramatic falls during snowmelt. Summer is heavily visited; morning visits or weekday trips significantly reduce crowds.

Practical Details

No fee at the Cardiff Fork Trailhead. Vault toilet available. For contrast, the Bells Canyon Trail offers a similar easy-to-moderate waterfall destination that allows dogs. See the forest guide for additional Big Cottonwood Canyon and Little Cottonwood Canyon options.

Leave No Trace

This trail receives enough use that following Leave No Trace principles is important for preserving the experience for future visitors. Stay on the marked trail to prevent erosion. Pack out all waste. Avoid camping within 200 feet of water sources or the trail. Use existing fire rings only where campfires are permitted, and check current fire restrictions at checking conditions before you go before any visit. The trail and surrounding terrain remain in good condition because previous visitors have respected these norms.

Safety Considerations

The easy rating reflects the trail's general character under typical conditions. Weather, seasonal snow, and trail conditions can change the experience significantly. Carry the 10 Essentials on any full-day outing. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time before heading out, particularly on longer or more remote trails. Cell service varies throughout Wasatch National Forest and may be unreliable in canyon bottoms or remote terrain.

Trailhead Parking

Cardiff Fork Trailhead, Big Cottonwood Canyon (SR-190), about 9 miles from the canyon mouth. Small dirt lot with space for 25-30 vehicles. No fee, but fills early on weekends.

← Back to Wasatch National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Donut Falls?
Donut Falls is a waterfall in Big Cottonwood Canyon where the creek flows through a circular hole in the rock, appearing to drop through a 'donut.' The hole is actually a limestone arch formed by erosion. The falls are most impressive in late spring with peak snowmelt.
How long is the Donut Falls hike?
Donut Falls is a 3.0-mile out-and-back with only 450 feet of gain. It takes most hikers 1.5 to 2 hours round trip. The trail is suitable for most ages and fitness levels, though the creek crossing near the falls requires some agility.
Are dogs allowed at Donut Falls?
No. Big Cottonwood Canyon is a protected Salt Lake City watershed, and dogs are prohibited on all trails in the canyon, including Donut Falls. No exceptions (as of 2026).
Is Donut Falls suitable for kids?
Donut Falls is popular with families. The short distance and minimal elevation gain make it accessible for children old enough to walk 3 miles. The creek crossing near the falls can be slippery and requires care with young children.