Doughnut Falls - Big Cottonwood Canyon hike

I'd been hearing a lot about Doughnut Falls so I grabbed the kids and went on this little hike. I specifically went during a spring high snowmelt runoff event, thinking it would be better. I didn't realize this was a bad idea. When the water is low, that's when it drops into a "donut" hole. When the river is raging, the falls just pour over so there is nothing to see. But, it's a nice easy hike for kids and there is a nice picnic area about half way at the creek crossing. I must admit, I was really there to scope out the Kessler Peak trail access knowing I'd be searching for it in the dark one early morning next month. This trail gets a lot of use, I think the falls is are many peoples first hike.

Doughnut Falls

The trail starts as an old road. After a hill climb, signs point right to a trail. Follow the trail until you hit a small bridge, crossing the creek. Once across you hit another road, go left. Follow this road to the falls. There is a small rock drop you must scramble down just before the falls. My 4 year old was able to climb up it so it's not too bad.

Drive up Big Cottonwood Canyon 9 miles to the large Mill D parking area on the left. Turn right instead and follow a paved road past the Jordan Pines Campground access. Soon the road becomes gravel with signs saying to stay on the road as there is private property nearby. Soon you will see a trailhead with a forest service toilet.