Looking for a place where man-made and nature meet? The Cache Valley is home to more than just the city of Logan, UT. It's also home to some incredible natural adventures.
From multi-use hiking trails to the local ski runs, the Cache Valley is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. In all seasons of the year, you can find unbelievable vistas just waiting for you in this natural outdoor playground.
Looking for the quintessential Cache Valley hiking experience? Check out these
1. The Wind Caves
This short but beautiful hike will give you a breathtaking view of the Cache Valley, as well as a full experience of the famous Cache Valley wind caves. The trail itself is fairly steep, but the experience at the top is absolutely worth it.
Over thousands of years, the wind gradually eroded caves and arches into the soft stone that makes up this part of the mountain. This hike takes you right up to the caves, as well as to a beautiful triple arch formation. It's an iconic hike to take in the Cache Valley. If you can, go on a weekday. You'll find fewer hikers and more peace and quiet on this popular hike.
If you tackle this hike in the middle of summer, remember to bring plenty of water and sunscreen. The trail is mostly shaded, but there are some exposed sections that can get warm.
2. Crimson Trail
The Crimson trail is a local favorite for its stunning views of the local area. This three-mile trail offers views of the Cache Valley, Logan Canyon, Beirdneau Peak, and even the Wind Caves. It's a highlight reel of the best parts of the area. If you've only got time for one hike in Logan, this is the one to do.
Like most hikes in the area, the Crimson Trail is dog-friendly, meaning you can take your pup with you up and over the cliffs. There are plenty of places to stop along the way for a fantastic photo overlooking the vistas below.
This one can be pretty popular in the middle of summer. If you want to hike the trail without being disturbed, aim for a weekday hike. You'll probably still meet hikers on the trail, but you'll have plenty of space all to yourself at the viewpoints.
3. Jardine Juniper Trail
Logan's got a claim to fame that's surprisingly ancient. At the top of Jardine Juniper trail stands the oldest living juniper tree in the Rocky Mountains. This tree is well-marked and well-studied, and it's open to the public to see.
At the top, you'll find information panels detailing the life of the tree, and how scientists properly dated it as the oldest in the Rockies. There's a small platform built just in front of the tree that's perfect for taking pictures.
This trail can also get very busy during peak tourist months. Pro tip: If you go during winter, you'll not only get to view the mountains around the valley dusted with snow. You'll also have an incredible backdrop for the iconic Jardine Juniper photograph.
The tree itself isn't the only great thing about this hike. This trail also offers you stunning views of rolling mountainsides and sharp-edged peaks. All told, this trail is ten miles there and back. Bring plenty of water, as well as your sense of curiosity.
____
There are enough trails in the Cache Valley to keep a hiker busy for months on end. But when you've only got a limited time in the area, you want a hike that will give you the best Logan has to offer. Whether you do just one, or you tackle all three, these hikes will help you experience the Cache Valley like it was meant to be experienced: outside.