⚡ The Quick Scoop
The Vibe: A quiet, gorgeous wander off the beaten path leading to a massive, jaw-dropping secret.
Must See: The towering, multi-tiered cascade of Coalpit Gulch Waterfall—one of the tallest I have ever seen in Utah!
Shauna's Rating: 💎💎💎💎💎 (A 5-Diamond Spring Secret!)
Sometimes, the absolute best adventures happen when you throw away the map and just let yourself wander. The other morning, I was enjoying Lisa Falls in Little Cottonwood Canyon. When I finished, I decided on a whim to cross the street and just stroll around the Little Cottonwood Creek Trail.
I wasn't looking for anything specific. I walked up for a while, then down, taking all the cute little side trails that dipped down by the river just to soak the nature in. I loved watching the rushing water and peering up through the trees at the surrounding mountains, letting myself feel the pure awe of God's creations.
👇 Choose Your Path
The Jaw-Dropping Discovery
I had walked down the trail for about 1.5 miles and had just crossed my second bridge. I was admiring how beautiful the massive white granite cliffs looked peeking through the trees on both sides of the canyon.
Suddenly, I noticed a small, unmarked side trail heading off to the left (South). I decided to explore it, wondering if it might lead to a gorgeous photo op. I hiked up for just a little ways through the thick trees, and then it opened up.
My jaw literally hit the ground. There in front of me was the tallest waterfall I think I have ever seen in Utah! The sound isn't roaring loud, but it leaves you in absolute awe with each step as you get closer. When you finally reach the base, you can only see a small bottom section of the falls. You actually have to back up quite a ways to see the true majesty of it!
🧊 The Great White Icicle
In the winter, this waterfall completely freezes over and is known by ice climbers as the "Great White Icicle." As you drive up the canyon in the colder months, it looks like a massive, towering icicle running the entire length of the tall mountain. It is so fun in the winter to stand at the bottom and watch the brave ice climbers trying to scale that massive ice wall!
Why is it a Secret?
I stood there wondering why I had not run across this waterfall in all my obsessive searching for Utah hikes! I realized there are two main reasons this monster stays hidden from the crowds.
First, it is highly seasonal. It is a spring-runoff-only falls, meaning by late summer, it dries up entirely. Because it doesn't run year-round, it doesn't typically make those "Top 10" lists on apps like AllTrails.
Second, there is another waterfall nearby that is strictly used for rappelling by experienced climbers, and the two hikes often get mixed up. People assume this area is only for hardcore climbers and skip the trail entirely.
🌲 The Parable of the Wandering Path
Finding this waterfall was such a beautiful reminder for me. In life, we are so often hyper-focused on following the exact "AllTrails route" of our plans. We want to know exactly where we are going and what the end result will be.
But sometimes, God hides His most magnificent, towering miracles on the small, unmarked side trails. Sometimes, you just have to give yourself permission to wander, to be curious, and to explore without an agenda. If I hadn't taken that tiny dirt path just to see where it went, I would have walked right past the tallest waterfall in the canyon without ever knowing it was there.
⚠️ The Avalanche Obstacle Course
This specific area has had many avalanches roll through it. After you find that magical turn off the main trail and start heading towards the waterfall, you are constantly trying to find windows through the trees to see it. Sometimes you have to hustle up the first part, dodging obstacles and climbing over debris, and you quickly lose sight of the top.
Pro Tip: You have to actively remind yourself to stop looking at your footing and LOOK UP, because it is just so tall!
👯♀️ The Perfect Hike with Friends
I was so excited about this discovery that I couldn't wait to bring friends back a few days later! It was so fun to share this hidden wonder with them. Because it is a lesser-known waterfall, I have been back many times to show it off. It is not too hard of a hike, making it a wonderfully relaxing way to get out, get some fresh air, and enjoy the sounds of the rushing river together.
Transport Yourself: 360° VR Tours
Experience the sheer height and roaring power of Coalpit Gulch Waterfall for yourself! Use your mouse or finger to look all the way up to the top.
Utah Waterfalls VR Collection
Check out this awesome VR Collection of waterfalls that includes Coalpit Gulch!
Interactive 360° Video Trail
Click and drag around as I walk you right up to the base of the falls!
The Explorer's Guide
🗺️ Adventure at a Glance
- 🏞️ Location: Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah (30 mins East of SLC)
- 🥾 Activity: River walking and a short, rugged side-scramble
- 📅 Best Time to Go: Spring and Early Summer ONLY! (It dries up!)
- 🏅 Shauna's Rating: 💎💎💎💎💎 (An ultimate hidden gem!)
How to Find the Secret Falls
Because this trail is unmarked, you need to follow these directions carefully!
- Park at Lisa Falls: Put "Lisa Falls" into your GPS. Park there (and go see Lisa Falls quickly if you haven't yet!).
- Head Down the Creek: Cross the main road and hop onto the Little Cottonwood Creek Trail. You need to hike WEST (down the canyon).
- Count the Bridges: Hike for about 1.5 miles. You must pay attention to the bridges crossing the creek. After you cross the second bridge, start looking closely to your left.
- The Left Turn: Look for a small, unmarked dirt trail heading LEFT (South) into the thick trees. Follow this path up, navigate around the avalanche debris, and look UP!
The Waterfall Scrapbook
A few snapshots from the base of this towering spring giant.
✨ Ask the Trail Guide
Curious about Little Cottonwood Canyon, spring runoff, or finding hidden trails? Ask our AI Guide!
Wander With Wonder
This trail was the ultimate reminder that hiking truly heals the soul. Don't be afraid to take the unmarked path every once in a while—you might just find the biggest, most beautiful surprise waiting for you. Get out there and do some wandering today!
Sending Love and Positive Vibes,
Shauna @ VRGetaway
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