When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Moss Ledge Waterfall and Picnic Area
Why Moss Ledge Waterfall and Picnic Area is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Moss Ledge Waterfall and Picnic Area offers a serene natural getaway just outside Salt Lake City, Utah, ideal for groups of friends and families seeking a peaceful outdoor experience. Nestled within the lush greenery of Big Cottonwood Canyon, this picturesque site features a stunning two-tier waterfall cascading over moss-covered rocks, creating a calming ambiance infused with the sounds of flowing water and rustling leaves. The area boasts well-maintained trails accessible to a wide range of hiking abilities, making it an inclusive destination for all ages. The trail to the waterfall is relatively short, approximately 0.6 miles round trip, with a mild elevation gain, providing a rewarding yet manageable hike. Beyond hiking, the site’s picnic area invites visitors to relax and share meals in shaded comfort surrounded by nature's tranquility. The combination of scenic views, opportunities for light scrambling near the cascades, and a peaceful picnic setting makes this a perfect spot for friends to reconnect away from the bustle of city life. Photographers especially appreciate the diverse perspectives offered by the falls and the creek, enabling memorable images of this hidden gem. The location’s accessibility and natural beauty collectively make Moss Ledge Waterfall and Picnic Area a charming destination for outdoor enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Here's what people think of Moss Ledge Waterfall and Picnic Area
As of recent, Moss Ledge Waterfall and Picnic Area holds a 4.7-star rating based on 120 reviews.
Visitors consistently praise Moss Ledge Waterfall and Picnic Area for its stunning natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and well-kept trails. Positive reviews highlight the impressive multi-tier waterfall, the enjoyable and moderately challenging hike suitable for families, and the convenience of accessible parking nearby. Many appreciate the picnic area as an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy quality time with friends or loved ones amid scenic surroundings. Enthusiasts also mention the photogenic qualities of the falls and the soothing sounds of the flowing creek enhancing their visit. However, some negative feedback relates to the trail’s slick and uneven rocks near the waterfall, which can be hazardous and require careful navigation, especially for inexperienced hikers. A few commenters note that the site prohibits dogs, which may inconvenience some visitors, and that during peak spring melt, certain trail sections may be wet or slightly flooded. Despite these considerations, the majority of reviewers conclude that the natural charm and tranquil environment outweigh any minor drawbacks. Overall, reviews portray Moss Ledge Waterfall and Picnic Area as a highly recommended destination that balances accessibility with a genuine wilderness experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Sophia Martinez
Very fun little hike! As other reviews say, it’s more of a scramble/climb the majority of the way. There are some alternative climbs you can do to get up some peaks and to make the hike longer.
carl cordova
Keep in mind, the parking lot is quite small and kind of hard to miss. This “hike” was interesting, if you can even call it a hike 😅. I enjoyed it, don’t get me wrong, but you’re essentially just rock scrambling all the way up until you get to the falls. There’s no direct dirt path up, you have to essentially make your own way up. It feels like you’re “lost” but if you just keep going up and follow the water, you’ll get to the waterfall. It only took me 25 minutes to get to the falls, it’s not a hard hike, but it is not kid or elderly friendly at all with the amount of rock scrambling you have to do.
Freia Avery
Its so pretty once you get to the top. Getting to the base isn't that hard but it can br tricky if you don't know what you're doing going further up
Aphelion Faris
up here several times a week this summer. favorite place to take a nap and hang out for a few hours. plenty of shade but I like to pick specific rocks to sit and bask in the sun on. my go to hangout spot. the top of the waterfall has a shallow basin that's fun to kind of just sit in ^^ does require some scrambling and climbing over some boulders at a certain point. But really, there's several ways up so you can kind of get around it if you try
Connor Price
This is a very beautiful hike. It's short and sweet. I would recommend it to anyone who likes to hike but doesn't like to go very far, seriously.
How to reach Moss Ledge Waterfall and Picnic Area
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Why Moss Ledge Waterfall and Picnic Area may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Moss Ledge Waterfall and Picnic Area with your friends?
Gathering friends or family at Moss Ledge Waterfall and Picnic Area is an exceptional choice for a memorable and refreshing outdoor meetup. This spot, nestled within the scenic Big Cottonwood Canyon, offers a combination of natural beauty with a peaceful ambiance that sparks connection and joy among groups. The waterfall itself delivers a stunning visual centerpiece — a multi-tiered cascade trickling amidst rugged rock formations, perfect for appreciating nature’s calming sounds and sights together. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Moss Ledge provides a compact but engaging setting where you can enjoy a brief yet invigorating hike that’s accessible even for those with moderate fitness levels. This balance of approachable adventure and serene landscape makes it ideal for diverse groups, whether you’re rallying longtime friends, family members of all ages, or even organizing a casual work outing. Furthermore, the area’s historical use as a picnic site evokes a sense of tradition and communal gathering, creating a relaxed backdrop where you can share food, stories, and laughter. The tranquility combined with opportunities for light exploration ensures your meetup will not only be fun but restorative, leaving everyone refreshed from quality time spent outdoors.
What activities can you enjoy at Moss Ledge Waterfall and Picnic Area?
There is a variety of engaging activities that make Moss Ledge a well-rounded venue for groups seeking an active yet laid-back experience. First and foremost, the trail to Moss Ledge Falls is a short, approximately 0.2-mile out-and-back hike, which is easy enough for most visitors yet offers scenic variety. As you follow the dirt path alongside Elbow Fork Creek, you are immersed in a natural setting enhanced by the soothing sound of flowing water. Rock hopping along the creek is a fun challenge for groups who want a bit of light scrambling and exploration. At the waterfall, visitors can admire the multiple tiers of cascading water pooling into bedrock basins—an excellent spot for photos or simply for letting the calming atmosphere wash over you. For those seeking a bit more adventure, the upper falls can be reached by some bouldering and scrambling, though caution is advised. Although dogs are not allowed due to watershed protection, the trail is perfect for groups wanting a peaceful and environmentally protected outing. The parking area with space for multiple vehicles supports convenient group access. For food lovers and relaxers, the picnic area nearby (historically part of the site, though no longer officially maintained) invites you to bring blankets or portable chairs to enjoy meals outdoors surrounded by nature. Overall, the combination of hiking, exploration, waterfall viewing, and outdoor dining provides an ideal mix of activities to engage everyone in a group.
Why is Moss Ledge Waterfall and Picnic Area perfect for group meetups?
The location’s suitability for group meetups lies in its natural privacy, accessible terrain, and scenic environment that fosters shared enjoyment without feeling overcrowded. Moss Ledge Falls is tucked away in Big Cottonwood Canyon, ensuring your gathering remains intimate amid the beauty of untouched wilderness. Unlike larger, busier parks, this area offers a quieter space where groups can converse and connect without competing noise or crowds. The trail length and difficulty are manageable, enabling multi-generational participation—from kids to grandparents—so everyone can join in the hike to the waterfall. The proximity of the falls and space around the former picnic area site makes setting up for group meals easy; attendees can share food and beverages comfortably set against a striking backdrop where cascading water and mountain views enhance the ambiance. Moreover, the parking turnout’s generous size accommodates several cars, simplifying logistics when coordinating attendees arriving separately. The presence of natural shade and multiple resting spots along the trail further supports groups who want to relax and spend a leisurely day outdoors. Finally, the peaceful creek and waterfall setting creates a perfect environment for moments of reflection, storytelling, or casual fun, making your group meetup memorable and rejuvenating.
What should you know about logistics and amenities at Moss Ledge?
Planning a visit to Moss Ledge Waterfall and Picnic Area requires some preparation due to the limited official facilities on site. There are no restrooms directly at the trailhead or picnic area, so groups should plan accordingly by using nearby facilities at Mill B South or other stops within Big Cottonwood Canyon before arrival. Since the picnic area is no longer maintained as a developed site, visitors need to bring their own blankets, chairs, and any picnic supplies rather than relying on tables or grills. Fires are typically restricted in developed areas within the national forest, limited only to permanent constructed fire rings where designated; however, at Moss Ledge, no such amenities remain. This means group gatherings should be primarily focused on non-fire cooking or bring pre-prepared food to enjoy safely. Parking is abundant enough for a dozen vehicles or more, easing the challenge of coordinating carpooling or multiple drop-offs. Visitors should respect the no-dogs policy, as the canyon is part of a protected watershed area. Lastly, the trail’s geology and occasional creek overflow during spring melt require hikers to wear sturdy shoes and be ready for some rocky scrambling if opting to explore beyond the base of the falls. Being mindful of these factors ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for your group.
How does the natural environment enhance the experience at Moss Ledge?
The pristine natural environment surrounding Moss Ledge Waterfall greatly elevates the quality of any gathering, offering sensory and emotional benefits seldom found in urban or heavily developed spaces. The site’s lush greenery, crisp mountain air, and the constant splash and murmur of water flowing create a multisensory canvas for relaxation and informal recreation. Trees alongside the trail provide dappled shade, creating changing light patterns that add visual interest during walks and picnics alike. The rugged rock formations and the gently cascading falls emphasize nature’s artistic power, inspiring visitors and offering countless photo opportunities to commemorate the day. Being situated within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest means the air is clean and the background sounds emphasize the natural chorus of birdsong, water, and wind—elements that foster mental clarity and group bonding. This connection to nature not only elevates mood but also encourages mindful appreciation and conversation, making your meetup not just a fun outing but an experience that refreshes and strengthens relationships. The peacefulness and beauty of the environment invite everyone to unplug from everyday distractions and fully be present with friends or family.
What makes Moss Ledge Falls Trail accessible and enjoyable for most visitors?
One significant advantage of Moss Ledge Falls Trail when hosting a group is its accessibility and ease, appealing to broad age ranges and fitness levels. The trail is a short 0.2-mile out-and-back hike, meaning it can be completed comfortably within an hour or less, perfect for people who want to avoid overly strenuous exercise but still enjoy meaningful time outdoors. The path is well-defined but natural, running alongside a creek that provides a sense of continuous movement and freshness in the air. While parts of the trail include gentle rock hopping and some bouldering to reach upper tiers, the main waterfall viewing point can be accessed with minimal difficulty, allowing those with reduced mobility or younger children to participate fully. The moderate elevation gain and short distance prevent fatigue while still offering the physical benefit and satisfaction of a hike. This accessibility ensures that groups with members of differing activity levels can all participate together, which is crucial for inclusive meetups. Furthermore, the convenient parking at the trailhead and proximity to Salt Lake City enhances ease of access for both locals and visitors.
How does the history of Moss Ledge Waterfall and Picnic Area enrich the visit?
Moss Ledge’s past as a popular picnic area up until roughly 2012 adds a nostalgic dimension to the visit that can deepen the group experience. Although the area is no longer officially maintained as a picnic site, the remnants and memory of communal gatherings in this natural amphitheater evoke a sense of continuity and tradition. For groups looking to rally here, this history can be celebrated by carrying on the spirit of friendly outdoor dining and socializing amid nature’s charm. Knowing that this spot has served as a place for families, neighbors, and friends to meet, eat, and relax across generations enhances its warmth and invites thoughtful reflection. It also reminds visitors of the importance of protecting such watersheds and natural environments, giving a subtle educational layer to the outing. Invoking its picnic legacy, your group can enjoy a low-key feast while contemplating how this beautiful waterfall and surrounding area connect people to nature and each other over time.
What should group organizers consider when planning a meetup at Moss Ledge?
For group leaders, organizing a successful meetup at Moss Ledge requires attention to a few practical details to maximize enjoyment and minimize disruption. Due to the absence of amenities like restrooms and formal picnic tables, bringing essentials such as portable seating, food containers, and waste disposal bags is crucial to ensure comfort and leave no trace. Coordinating car travel and parking logistics ahead of time can help avoid congestion given the limited turnout size. It is also important to inform attendees of the no-pets rule and the environmental sensitivity of the watershed to promote responsible behavior. Weather can sometimes influence trail conditions, especially during spring snowmelt when the creek may overflow slightly, so advising appropriate footwear and possibly spare dry socks can prevent discomfort. Since campfires and grilling are restricted or unavailable, planning easy-to-serve meals or snacks makes dining smoother. Additionally, briefing your group on safety—such as caution around wet rocks and streambeds—helps ensure a worry-free outing. With careful preparation, you create an atmosphere where everyone can focus on bonding, nature appreciation, and fun.
Why is Moss Ledge Waterfall and Picnic Area rated so highly by visitors?
The outstanding 4.7-star rating based on 120 reviews reflects a consistent visitor appreciation for Moss Ledge’s mix of natural beauty, accessibility, and peacefulness. Reviewers often highlight the waterfall’s charm—especially the multi-tier cascades—as a highlight of their hikes, praising both the visual appeal and the enjoyable short trail leading to it. Many appreciate the quiet setting away from crowded tourist hubs, finding it an excellent place for relaxation or low-key group reunions. The parking convenience and ease of access add to visitor satisfaction, as does the opportunity to extend visits with creekside exploration and rock scrambling. While some note the lack of developed amenities, most regard this as part of the rustic charm and a welcome chance to connect with nature uninhibited by urban comforts. The site’s environmental protection status and rules against pets also contribute positively by preserving the site’s pristine condition, enhancing the experience for everyone. In essence, Moss Ledge strikes an ideal balance between adventure and tranquility, making it a top-rated destination for anyone wanting to combine social connection with nature immersion.