Donut Falls

When the upper trailhead road is open, start at Donut Falls trailhead parking and follow the signed Donut Falls trail to the waterfall, then return the same way. Stop at the designated trail end.

Visit Utah gives 0.8 mile from the upper trailhead to the falls. Starting at lower canyon-road parking adds about 2 miles total; do not confuse the two starting points.

Trail with slippery rocks near the waterfall. Snow changes the route and introduces avalanche exposure.

Where to start

Drive about 9 miles up Big Cottonwood Canyon, turn toward Jordan Pines at Mill D, pass the summer homes and continue to the upper trailhead lot. If full, use the larger lower lot and allow for the longer walk.

Timing & water

Summer through early autumn is the tourism guide's preferred season. The upper trailhead is gated in winter; the falls and final approach are exposed to avalanches.

Before you go

UDOT lists Donut Falls as a summer fee area and Cardiff Fork as year-round. Parking inside posted fee areas requires a valid day-use or accepted recreation pass.