Donut Falls Snowshoe

Snowshoeing into Donut Falls is a really fun, easy, and relatively safe way to enjoy the Wasatch mountains in winter. This is a really popular trail in the summer, and although there are less people in the cold, you will still see plenty of hikers. It is usually packed down, so some microspikes are fine unless you arrive after a big storm. If that is the case, make sure to check your avalanche conditions at the Utah Avalanche Center

During the winter the gate is closed at the main canyon road, and only residents are allowed to drive further in. This means you will hike almost an extra mile each way that you don't have to hike in the summer. Even though the road is covered with snow, there are ample signs to let you know where to find the trailhead. Stay left at all the forks and you should be fine. The right hand turns will take you toward Cardiff Fork. The main road is to the north, and the falls are to the south tucked up along the eastern wall.

The waterfall is covered in snow and ice, but it still flows underneath. If you are willing to risk some bumps and bruises, climbing up to the top gives you access to the small cave at the top. The cave is large enough to hold multiple people, but be very careful: This is not recommend without microspikes or snowhoes and poles.

This is a short and fun hike that is actually a little more enjoyable when it is longer than usual and attracts fewer people. There are no dogs allowed on this hike, and you may encounter moose; be very careful and keep your distance.