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This is a hike that I have always wanted to do; but for some reason I always found myself getting distracted by the beauty of the Lower Bells Reservoir that I never bothered hiking farther up the canyon. What was I thinking?
On this trip I was determined to not let the beauty of the Lower Bells Reservoir distract me from visiting the Lower Bells Canyon Waterfall. After a brief stop at the reservoir we continued up the service road to the Bells Canyon Trail. The trail starts off with very little elevation gain and meanders its way through grassy flats, scrub oak, and eventually you end up at the stream with a foot bridge. This is a great place to rest, enjoy the beauty, and prepare yourself for the rest of the hike.
After you cross the foot bridge the trail continues to follow the stream and this is where the elevation gain kicks in. The trail from this point is rocky, with lose dirt, and you began to gain elevation quickly. Most of the trail is shaded by the surrounding forest which helps protect you from the hot summer sun and with the beauty of the stream nearby you have several places to stop, rest, have a snack, and a drink.
As you continue up the trail you want to watch for the trail to fork to the left. We actually missed this fork and continued to hike up the mountain until some friendly hikers directed us to the falls. Once on the right trail we could hear the roar of the falls in the distance, and then through the pine trees we got our first glimpse of the Lower Bells Canyon Waterfall.
Getting to the base of the falls requires a steep descent down a loose dirt hill.
Once at the base the full view of the waterfall is spectacular.
The cold spray from the falls can be felt from a distance and the sound and power of the waterfall is breathtaking. Now being the type of person that wants to get the best possible picture of the places that I visit; I had to refrain myself from taking chances around this powerful display of Mother Nature.
Each year you hear of tragic accidents or injuries from those that take chances around the Lower Bells Canyon Waterfall. Please use caution around the falls and don't take chances unless you have the proper gear, and experience. One injury or death is too many.
The Lower Bells Canyon Waterfall is a must see. Although I consider this hike moderate; I saw families of all ages enjoying this hike and the surrounding beauty. Every time I visit the Wasatch Mountain Range I'm amazed at the beauty that we all have so close to home; so get out and enjoy!
Oh, and by the way, on the way back down the trail I found myself sitting on the shore of the Lower Bells Reservoir once again distracted by the beauty; oh well!
There are two different trailheads that you can begin your hike. The first trailhead is located on the left side of the road just ¼ mile from Wasatch Blvd. and the 9800 South Intersection. The second trailhead is located on 10245 South on Wasatch Blvd.
Trail Information and Directions:
Trail Location: Mouth of Little Cottonwood Canyon
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