Horsetail Falls
While on a business trip in northern Utah, I took a break on the weekend to fit in a quick overnight backpacking trip. It was also an opportunity to meet up with my cousin who took me to see a favorite hike for locals: Horsetail Falls.
Horsetail Falls is a beautiful waterfall a few miles up Dry Creek Canyon, northeast of Alpine, Utah. The trail is in a protected wilderness area, so only hiking and equestrian use is permitted.
Summary
- Distance: 2.5+ miles to the falls
- Trailhead elevation: 5640 ft
- Waterfall elevation: 7400 ft
- Trailhead: Dry Creek
- Location: Alpine, Utah
The trail is well-marked and it has a good elevation gain with moderate terrain. There were a few creek crossings, and in places was a little wet, depending on the route. The entire area was beautiful and I found myself stopping regularly to soak in the views, take photos, and catch my breath. My cousin said there were amazing camping areas further up the trail, but due to my schedule, we stopped a little ways above the falls, about 3 miles up the trail. Camping spots were very limited, but thanks to bringing hammocks, we were able to set up in an area that looked pretty inhospitable, but was very Leave No Trace friendly.
We were a good distance from the falls and the creek, but the sound of crashing water lulled us to sleep as we were cradled and rocked gently in our nests.
Hammock Gear Used
- Warbonnet XLC
- Hennessy Hyperlite
- Arrowhead Equipment under quilt
I love camping in the rain, and I was blessed with a nice midnight rain storm and a misting in the morning. We stayed nice and dry under our tarps, and thanks to the boulder I was pitched over, I was able to cook breakfast in bed over a rock face.
Due to the slope we were camped on, I had to climb up a pine tree a little ways to hang my tree webbing and suspension line. Using quick-release Dutchware clips and using a Becket Hitch, I was able to quickly tie my Hennessy suspension without trouble.
I wish I could have stayed longer and explored more, but it was fun to do a quick sub-24O trek with my cousin. I can’t wait to do it again sometime!
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