Exploring Wind Cave Trail: A Unique Hike in Logan Canyon

After spending a short time at Bear Lake, we headed into Logan Canyon to explore one of the area’s most popular hikes. Wind Cave Trail had been on our radar because it offered something a little different than the typical mountain viewpoint. Instead of hiking to a lake or summit, this trail leads to a massive limestone cave high above the canyon.

What we didn’t expect was how much we would enjoy the views along the way.

Quick Answer:

Wind Cave Trail is one of the most unique hikes in Logan Canyon. The 4.2-mile round-trip hike climbs steadily to a large limestone cave overlooking the canyon below. The trail is moderately challenging but well maintained, and the short scramble into the cave is easy for most hikers. We visited on a May morning and found excellent views, early-season wildflowers, and a friendly crowd without feeling overcrowded.

Why We Hiked Wind Cave Trail

When planning our Utah road trip, Wind Cave Trail kept showing up as one of the most popular hikes in Logan Canyon. The photos of the cave looked interesting, but what really caught our attention was the combination of a unique destination and relatively moderate mileage.

We also liked that the trail could easily be paired with Crimson Trail, another highly rated hike located just minutes away. Since we enjoy making the most of our hiking days. To us, tackling trails back-to-back sounded like a good idea. It was away to experience more of Logan Canyon without spending additional time driving between trailheads.

As it turned out, Wind Cave Trail ended up being our favorite of the two, but we enjoyed both.

What to Expect on the Hike

Wind Cave Trail gains elevation almost immediately. The climb is steady for most of the hike, but the trail is well maintained and easy to follow. While there are a few drop-offs along the route, the path is generally wide enough that we never felt uncomfortable.

Wildflowers were beginning to bloom during our visit which added welcome color to the impressive hillsides.

Because the trail is mostly exposed, shade is limited. We were thankful for the cooler morning temperatures, especially on the climb back down. If you plan to hike later in the day during summer, bringing extra water would be a good idea.

One of our favorite parts of the hike was watching Logan Canyon gradually open up below us. As we gained elevation, the views became bigger with every uphill step. By the time we neared the cave, we could see miles of canyon. The highway winding through the valley, and even some of the cliffs that would later become part of our hike on Crimson Trail.

The trail was busy but never felt overcrowded. We passed a steady stream of hikers throughout the morning, yet there was always plenty of room to stop and enjoy the scenery.

Exploring Wind Cave

The destination of this hike is a large limestone cave carved into the side of a cliff high above Logan Canyon. Calling it a cave almost feels misleading because this is not a dark underground cavern. Instead, it is a massive open chamber with several arch-like openings that frame the canyon below.

The final approach requires a short steep section up a rocky path, but we found it easy for most hikers. Within a few minutes, we were standing on top of the cave looking out across Logan Canyon.

What makes Wind Cave so enjoyable is that visitors are encouraged to explore. We climbed around the different openings, walked through the chamber, and spent quite a bit of time taking photographs from different angles. The cave is large enough that even with 10 to 15 people present, everyone had room to spread out and enjoy the experience.

The limestone formations inside the cave are impressive on their own, but the views through the openings are what make this place memorable. Every window seems to frame a different section of Logan Canyon.

Because the cave sits near the edge of a cliff, parents should keep a close eye on young children. That said, we never felt uncomfortable exploring the area and found the footing to be solid throughout our visit.

Views of Logan Canyon

While the cave is the main attraction, the views along the trail are almost as rewarding. Much of the hike is exposed, providing frequent opportunities to look across Logan Canyon as you gain elevation.

Once inside Wind Cave, the scenery becomes even more impressive. Looking out from the openings, we could see Highway 89 far below and views in both directions through the canyon. If you know where to look, you can even spot portions of nearby Crimson Trail across the valley.

Even if the cave did not exist, the scenery alone would make this a worthwhile hike. Combined with the unique limestone formations, the views help explain why Wind Cave is one of the most popular trails in Logan Canyon.

Parking and Trailhead Information

Wind Cave Trail begins along Highway 89 in Logan Canyon, where two small parking areas provide access to the trailhead. Each lot appeared to hold roughly 15 to 20 vehicles. We arrived early on a Tuesday morning and were able to find a spot without much trouble, but the lots were filling as we finished our hike.

If you are driving a larger vehicle, parking may require a little patience. Our 24-foot Sprinter van fit, but maneuvering in the lot was tight. The parking areas sit directly beside a busy section of Highway 89, and the road curves through this part of the canyon. When leaving, visibility can be limited and traffic moves quickly. Use extra caution when backing out or pulling back onto the highway.

The trailhead is well-marked with informational signs that explain the geology of Wind Cave and provide an overview of the route. Restrooms were available at the trailhead during our visit.

Our recommendation is simple: arrive early. You’ll have a better chance of finding parking, enjoy cooler temperatures on the exposed climb, and experience the cave before the largest crowds arrive.

FAQ

How difficult is Wind Cave Trail?

Wind Cave Trail is a moderate hike with about 1,100 feet of elevation gain over 4.2 miles round trip. The trail is well maintained and wide enough that most hikers should feel comfortable.

Is the scramble into Wind Cave difficult?

No. The final scramble is short and relatively easy. Most hikers should be able to access the main cave opening without difficulty.

Is Wind Cave Trail worth it?

Yes. The combination of canyon views, unique rock formations, and the large limestone cave makes this one of the most memorable hikes in Logan Canyon.

Can you hike Wind Cave and Crimson Trail on the same day?

Yes. The trailheads are only about 1.5 miles apart, making it easy to combine both hikes into a full day of exploring Logan Canyon.

Is Wind Cave Trail Worth It?

Yes, Wind Cave Trail is absolutely worth hiking.

What makes this trail special is the combination of a unique destination and excellent views. The limestone cave is fun to explore, easy to access, and large enough that you can spend time wandering through the different openings and enjoying the scenery from multiple viewpoints.

We also appreciated that the trail never felt overcrowded despite its popularity. Hikers were respectful, the cave offered plenty of room to spread out, and everyone seemed willing to share the best photo spots.

The steady climb provides enough challenge to feel rewarding without being overly difficult. Most active hikers should have no trouble completing the trail, especially if they start early and bring plenty of water during the warmer months.

If you are visiting Logan Canyon and only have time for one hike, Wind Cave would be our recommendation. In fact, after hiking both Wind Cave and Crimson Trail on the same day, Wind Cave was our favorite of the two. The cave itself is unlike anything else we experienced in the area, and the views of Logan Canyon only add to the experience.

The trail ended up being one of the highlights of our alternate travel route after we abandoned our original Idaho itinerary. The change of plans turned into an excellent adventure, which we share in our story about our abandoned Idaho road trip.

For hikers looking for a memorable trail with a unique destination, Wind Cave Trail delivers.

From Logan Canyon to Antelope Island

After leaving Logan Canyon, we spent a few days on Antelope Island where we hiked the Dooley Knob Trail, camped inside the state park, and explored the historic Fielding Garr Ranch. The island offered a completely different experience, trading mountain scenery for open grasslands, wildlife, and expansive views across the Great Salt Lake.

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Have a question about Wind Cave Trail, trail conditions, parking, or what to expect? Drop it in the comments below and we’ll help if we can.

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