
Ogden Canyon Scenic Byway
Experience the stunning beauty of Ogden Canyon, from the rewarding Waterfall Canyon hike to breathtaking scenic drives and incredible stargazing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant foliage, crisp air

Ogden Canyon Scenic Byway
Best Time
Vibrant foliage, crisp air
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the stunning beauty of Ogden Canyon, from the rewarding Waterfall Canyon hike to breathtaking scenic drives and incredible stargazing.
"So beautiful! We took our grandpa there and he absolutely loved it! The waterfall was his favorite part!"

🥾 Hike Prepared
Bring water and wear sturdy shoes for the Waterfall Canyon hike. It's family and dog-friendly!
🚗 Drive Carefully
The road is narrow and winding, so take your time and enjoy the scenery.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Waterfall Canyon Trail
Ogden Canyon
A rewarding 2.4-mile hike with a beautiful waterfall, perfect for families and dogs.

Scenic Drive Views
Ogden Canyon Scenic Byway
Enjoy breathtaking vistas and vibrant fall colors along this winding mountain road.

Stargazing at Monte Cristo
Snowmobile parking area, Monte Cristo
Experience a clear view of the Milky Way from this designated dark sky spot.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Waterfall Hike
Stargazing & Scenic Drives
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Hike Prepared
Bring water and wear sturdy shoes for the Waterfall Canyon hike. It's family and dog-friendly!
🚗 Drive Carefully
The road is narrow and winding, so take your time and enjoy the scenery.
Looking for a really quiet, secluded scenic spot in Ogden area. Any recommendations
New to Ogden, where can I go?
✨ Stargazing Spot
Head to the snowmobile parking halfway up Monte Cristo for incredible night sky views.
📸 Family Photos
This scenic byway is a perfect backdrop for memorable family photos.
Good hikes in the Ogden canyon area
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Hike Prepared
Bring water and wear sturdy shoes for the Waterfall Canyon hike. It's family and dog-friendly!
🚗 Drive Carefully
The road is narrow and winding, so take your time and enjoy the scenery.
✨ Stargazing Spot
Head to the snowmobile parking halfway up Monte Cristo for incredible night sky views.
📸 Family Photos
This scenic byway is a perfect backdrop for memorable family photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking beauty of Ogden Canyon, particularly the rewarding Waterfall Canyon hike and the vibrant fall colors. Many appreciate it as a family-friendly destination and a great spot for photography. Some note the narrow, winding road requires careful driving.
"So beautiful! We took our grandpa there (he was visiting from LA) and he absolutely loved it! The waterfall was his favorite part!"
Ashley Araujo
"Great place to take family photos!"
Erin Delgado
"Family wedding up there.quite pretty.narrow winding road"
shelly salzetti
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ogden Canyon Scenic Byway is easily accessible from Ogden, Utah. Take the 20th Street exit off I-15 and head east. The byway begins shortly after entering the canyon.
Yes, there are several pull-offs and parking areas along the byway, especially near trailheads like Waterfall Canyon. The snowmobile parking area halfway up Monte Cristo is also a key stop.
The main portion of the Ogden Canyon Scenic Byway is a paved road. It continues towards Monte Cristo, which can be a more challenging drive, especially in winter.
Many visitors enjoy driving the byway and stopping at various viewpoints. Hiking to Waterfall Canyon is also a popular activity.
Keep an eye out for the entrance to Waterfall Canyon, various scenic overlooks, and the turn-off for the Monte Cristo area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to drive the Ogden Canyon Scenic Byway. It's a public road.
Generally, parking and access to the byway itself are free. However, some specific trailheads or campgrounds within the broader canyon area might have day-use fees.
Ogden Canyon is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, road conditions can vary significantly in winter due to snow.
For fall colors, visit in autumn. For stargazing, summer evenings are ideal. Weekdays generally offer fewer crowds.
While there aren't official 'tours' for the scenic byway itself, local adventure companies might offer guided hikes or outdoor excursions in the area.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The most popular hike is to Waterfall Canyon, a moderate 2.4-mile round trip with a rewarding waterfall.
Yes, the Waterfall Canyon hike is considered family-friendly, though it does have some elevation gain. The scenic drive itself is also enjoyable for all ages.
Dogs are generally allowed in Ogden Canyon, including on the Waterfall Canyon trail, but they must be kept on a leash.
You might spot deer, various bird species, and other small mammals. Always maintain a safe distance and do not feed wildlife.
The waterfall in Waterfall Canyon, the winding road with autumn foliage, and panoramic mountain views offer excellent photo opportunities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly within Ogden Canyon. You'll find dining options in nearby Ogden city.
Yes, picnicking is a great option! There are several pull-offs and scenic spots where you can enjoy a packed meal.
It's best to stock up on snacks and drinks in Ogden city before heading into the canyon, as services are limited.
Campgrounds like North Fork Park might have basic amenities, but dedicated food services are not common within the canyon itself.
Pack essentials like water, sandwiches, snacks, and a blanket. Remember to pack out all trash.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer the best light for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A tripod is helpful for low-light conditions.
The base of Waterfall Canyon, scenic overlooks along the byway, and the winding road itself are prime photography locations.
Autumn is spectacular for fall colors. Spring offers lush greenery, and summer provides clear skies for stargazing shots.
Drone regulations can vary. Check with local authorities and be aware of airspace restrictions, especially near trails and private property.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing plenty of snacks and drinks, as amenities within the canyon are limited. Weekday visits can help avoid larger crowds, making the experience more relaxed for everyone. The beauty of the canyon, especially during fall, offers a wonderful opportunity for family photos and creating lasting memories.
🌌 Stargazers & Night Owls
Plan your visit for a clear night, ideally during a new moon phase for the darkest skies. Bring a blanket, some warm drinks, and prepare to be amazed by the celestial display. It's a peaceful and awe-inspiring way to experience the natural beauty of the area after dark.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking to Waterfall Canyon
Many visitors rave about the scenic beauty along the path, with opportunities to enjoy the natural surroundings of Ogden Canyon. The trail can get busy, particularly on weekends, so an early start is recommended if you prefer a more solitary experience. The elevation gain means it's a good workout, so be prepared to break a sweat, but the views and the waterfall make it well worth the effort.
Key Takeaways for the Hike:
* Distance: 2.4 miles round trip
* Elevation Gain: ~1,200 feet
* Difficulty: Moderate
* Best For: Families, hikers, dog owners (on leash)
* Don't Forget: Water, sturdy shoes, camera!
Experiencing the Scenic Drive
Beyond the visual appeal, the byway serves as a gateway to various recreational activities. It's the access road for the Waterfall Canyon trailhead and continues towards the higher elevations of Monte Cristo. For those seeking a peaceful evening, the snowmobile parking area halfway up Monte Cristo is recommended for stargazing, offering a clear view of the night sky away from city lights.
Tips for the Scenic Drive:
* Pace Yourself: Enjoy the winding road and pull over at designated spots.
* Seasonal Beauty: Fall foliage is exceptional; summer offers lush greenery.
* Night Sky: Consider visiting the Monte Cristo area for stargazing.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit