The best walks and hikes around Sundance
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Hiking around Sundance, Utah, is characterized by its location within the Wasatch Range, offering diverse terrain from alpine forests to mountain canyons. The region features significant elevation changes, providing varied landscapes including towering cliffs and expansive mountain views. Hikers can explore trails that wind through lush meadows and past notable natural features.
Best hiking trails in Sundance
- The most popular hiking route is Pyramid Rock Trail β Pyramid Rock loop from Church Rock, a 4.9 miles (7.9 km) trailβ¦
Last updated: May 14, 2026
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hikers
2.33km
00:37
20m
40m
UNM Gallup Fitness Trail is an easy 1.4-mile hike with crushed rock paths, offering views of Pyramid Peak and hogback red rocks.
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hikers
7.37km
02:09
200m
200m
Hike the moderate 4.6-mile Pyramid Rock Trail in Red Rock Park for panoramic views of Gallup and unique sandstone formations.
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1
hikers
4.77km
01:19
80m
80m
Hike the easy 3.0-mile Church Rock Trail in Red Rock Park, New Mexico, offering vibrant rock formations and scenic views.
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3.29km
00:58
90m
90m
Hike the easy 2.0-mile North Hogback Trail Loop in New Mexico, featuring a steep climb, switchbacks, and great views of high desert plains.
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7.93km
02:20
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The North Hogback Trail is well marked with signs and cairns. The dirt path features some switchbacks near the trailhead, but then becomes easier. The beautiful view from the top is well worth the hike.
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North Hogback Trailhead has some parking on a dirt pull off from the dirt road, which is popular with ATVs. There are also signs showing the trails here.
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Church Rock Loop is a trail best taken in a clockwise direction, as indicated by the signs. This trail has hikers walking on a larger rock rather than a traditional path at some points. If you're not comfortable placing your foot in small cutouts and climbing a staircase-like feature, it is best to avoid the Church Rock Loop, but the Church Rock Stem is still a great, traditional trail to enjoy. There are four sections with gains of a few hundred feet in elevation, with steps carved into the rocks. At the top, the trail flattens out more, and hikers can follow cairns the rest of the way.
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The Church Rock Stem Trail leads to Church Rock Loop, winding through red rock formations and desert scrub. This area witnessed the largest uranium spill in U.S. history in 1979, releasing more radioactivity than the Three Mile Island accident just four months earlier.
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Red Rock Park is Gallupβs most popular parks and recreation system, nestled among red cliffs created over 200 million years ago. The park has a convention center, rodeo grounds with horse stalls, a museum, and campgrounds.
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Pyramid Rock, part of the Navajo Nation, can be reached by a Pyramid Rock Trail that leads to the summit of the peak, providing stunning views. At the top, a sign indicates the distance to cities like LA, Miami, New York, Seattle, and Albuquerque.
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The Pyramid Rock Trail offers a steep climb with stunning views. The well-marked path leads hikers through wild sagebrush, sandstone rocks, and trees like juniper and pine. Plenty of parking is available near the southern base of Red Rocks Park.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on hiking trails in Sundance?
Sundance, nestled in the Wasatch Range, offers diverse terrain. You'll find trails winding through alpine forests and meadows, navigating Provo Canyon, and showcasing towering cliffs and dramatic mountain amphitheaters. Significant elevation changes provide varied landscapes and opportunities to observe local flora and fauna.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families in Sundance?
Yes, Sundance offers several easy trails. For example, the UNM Gallup Fitness Trail is an easy option, as is the Church Rock Trail. Another accessible choice is the North Hogback Trail Loop. These trails provide scenic mountain views without significant difficulty.
What are some challenging hikes in the Sundance area?
For those seeking a more challenging experience, the Emerald Lake via Mount Timpanogos Trail is a difficult 10.3-mile path that ascends Mount Timpanogos, offering high-elevation views and access to the pristine Emerald Lake. This trail showcases alpine meadows and panoramic summit views. Within the komoot guide, moderate options include the Pyramid Rock Trail and the Pyramid Rock Trail β Pyramid Rock loop from Church Rock.
Are there any trails with waterfalls in Sundance?
Yes, one of Sundance's most popular hikes leads to the spectacular Stewart Falls, a two-tiered waterfall over 100 feet tall. Multiple routes lead to the falls, including the Stewarts Cascade Trail and the Stewart Falls Lower Trail from within Sundance Resort. Hikers can experience lush mountain forests and meadows on the way to this natural wonder.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to look out for while hiking in Sundance?
Beyond the stunning Mount Timpanogos and Stewart Falls, hikers can explore the dramatic rock formations found along trails like the Pyramid Rock Trail. The area also features extensive alpine forests, meadows, and the towering cliffs of Provo Canyon. You can also visit Red Rock Park near the Church Rock Stem Trail.
Can I find circular hiking routes in Sundance?
Yes, there are circular routes available. An example is the North Hogback Trail Loop, which offers a convenient way to experience the area's scenery. Another popular loop is the Pyramid Rock Trail β Pyramid Rock loop from Church Rock.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Sundance?
The hiking experiences in Sundance are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, from alpine forests to mountain canyons, and the dramatic rock formations. The varied landscapes and opportunities for scenic views are frequently highlighted.
Are there any specific points of interest or attractions near the hiking trails?
Yes, beyond the trails themselves, you can explore several points of interest. The Red Rock Park is a significant natural monument. For those interested in local history, the El Rancho Hotel & Motel in Gallup is a notable historical site. The town of Gallup itself is also a place to explore.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Sundance, Utah?
The best time to hike in Sundance is generally during the late spring, summer, and early fall months. This period offers pleasant temperatures and clear trails, allowing access to higher elevations and alpine meadows. During these seasons, you can fully appreciate the lush mountain forests and panoramic views.
Are there options for accessing higher elevations without hiking the entire way up?
Yes, Sundance Mountain Resort offers scenic lift rides that allow hikers to access higher elevations and begin their adventures from the top of the mountain. This can be a great option for those looking to enjoy the views and trails with less strenuous ascent.
Are there guided hikes available in Sundance?
Yes, guided hikes are available in Sundance. These tours offer an excellent opportunity to learn about the area's geology, history, plant communities, and wildlife from experienced local guides, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of the natural surroundings.
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