Hiking the trails throughout Logan Canyon offers a great opportunity to take a break from the daily grind and reconnect with nature. The canyon trails range from easy strolls by the river to steep and rugged outings that will plant you on top of a peak looking out across the Bear River Mountains. No matter your ability there’s a trail that is perfect for you.
What Makes It Great
The trails in Logan Canyon, just east of the city of Logan, can be divided into three sections: Mouth of the Canyon, Right Hand and Temple Forks, and the Tony Grove Area. The routes in the Mouth of the Canyon are lower in elevation so can be open as early as spring. The Right Hand and Temple Fork areas offer access to beautiful mountain forests and incredible views. The Tony Grove Area is the heart of the canyon and offers easy nature trails as well as entry to the Naomi Wilderness.
The short jaunt to the Wind Caves is a moderate must do for anyone hiking in Logan Canyon. Located only five miles up the canyon, the trailhead is directly across from the Guinavah-Malibu campground. This popular trail climbs up through a forest of maple and juniper trees for 1.5 miles. Scenic views of thick pine forests and the higher peaks of the Bear River Range abound along the hike. You will soon reach an outcropping of limestone cliffs where a series of arches have formed, one within one another. These are the Wind Caves.
Have you hiked to Old Ephraim’s grave? The hike to the final resting place of the last grizzly bear killed in Utah is a half-day outing up Righthand Fork. From the Righthand Fork Trailhead follow Willow Creek Trail to Ephraim’s Cutoff then to Long Hollow Road where you will find Old Ephraim’s grave. To make the hike a loop you can carry on down Long Hollow and take a right to return to the trailhead via the Steel Hollow Trail. This is a moderate 10-mile hike.
The Jardine Juniper Trail will take you to the oldest known living Rocky Mountain Juniper tree in the world. The trailhead is at the Wood Camp turnoff 10 miles up from Logan Canyon. The hike is about 10 miles in length, but if you give yourself enough time, food and water, it can be an awesome outing.
What You’ll Remember
Hiking through forests of hardwood and evergreen trees, weaving through limestone caves, crossing babbling brooks and mountain springs, strolling through meadows flush with blooming wildflowers, and eating lunch under an ancient tree or with Old Ephraim.
Who’s Going to Love It
With numerous trails to choose from Logan Canyon offers something that can fit all abilities. If you like exploring the forest, lounging in mountain meadows, and staring at scenic vistas, Logan Canyon is the perfect spot for you.
GPS Coordinates, Parking, and Regulations
Jardine Juniper Trailhead: Wood Camp turn-off, 12 miles from Logan on US 89
Elevation Start/End: 5400/7200 feet
Length: 4.4 miles one way
Ref. Map (7.5 min.):Mt. Elmer
Old Ephraim's Grave Trailhead: Lomia Camp or Lodge Campground Right Hand Fork, Logan Canyon
Elevation Start/Max: 5600/7200 feet
Length: 5.4 miles one way
Ref. Map (7.5 min.): Temple Peak
Wind Cave Trailhead: Left side of Highway 89 opposite the Logan City water springs and Guinavah Campground, about 7 miles from Logan. Park on the river (right) side of the highway.
Elevation Start/End: 5100/6000 feet
Length: 1.1 mile one way
Ref. Map (7.5 min.): Mt. Elmer
The National Forest Foundation promotes the enhancement and public enjoyment of the 193-million-acre National Forest System. By directly engaging Americans and leveraging private and public funding, the NFF improves forest health and Americans’ outdoor experiences. The NFF’s programs inform millions of Americans about the importance of these treasured landscapes. Each year, the NFF restores fish and wildlife habitat, plants trees in areas affected by fires, insects and disease, improves recreational opportunities, and enables communities to steward their National Forests and Grasslands. Learn more at www.nationalforests.org.