There are many good hikes near Coldwater Canyon, but once the giant American Flag, “The Major” goes up, Coldwater Canyon becomes the most amazing hike within hundreds of miles.
Coldwater Canyon & “The Major” flag
Coldwater Canyon is a dream hike for anyone looking to spend 90 minutes to 3 hours on the trail. Picturesque views toward the Great Salt Lake with plenty of sunshine and a lush, green pine forest on the south side of the Canyon.
When is the Flag Up? When is the Major up?
The Major is my favorite thing about North Ogden (which is already an amazing city). The flag goes up every year a week or 2 before Veteran’s Day. In 2022, The Major went up on October 28, and is scheduled to be pulled for the year Nov 12 (day after Veteran’s Day).
The Coldwater Canyon Hike
Coldwater Canyon Trailhead Directions & Parking
There is not an easier to find trail on the planet! Point your GPS to 2750 North Mountain Road, North Ogden, UT (google maps link).
Or if more elaborate directions are needed, you can take I-15’s 2700 North Exit for Farr West and drive East (toward the mountains). Turn left when the road ends (about 4 miles). The parking lot will be on your right within 1 minute.
Why Coldwater Canyon is worth Hiking
If we haven’t sold you on hiking to the flag yet, we’re obviously not going to be able to. Of course, with The Major only being up about 2 weeks of the year, chances are you’re looking at this hike at a different time.
Other Reasons Include:
- Amazing Views of Ogden and you can see from Willard Bay to West Valley.
- Geology – which is pretty common in most Utah hikes. Striated Rock, Peculiar Formations.
- As you approach the top of the trail looking vertically up the peaks is awe-inspiring.
Hiking Coldwater Canyon
There are a few different ways to the top. Initially you’re guided by hiking to what locals call “Big Rock.” (Very creative name, we know.)
Big Rock is a rock formation on the North side of the mountain with a distinct point to the north. There are various switchbacks, some steeper than others but as long as you keep working your way back to Big Rock, you’re on the right path.
Once below big rock, the trail is easy to follow. You’ll hike toward a smaller rock formations that is south- there is one distinct trail for the rest the hike. The rock formations you’re headed to are easy to see, but still much smaller. There’ a switch back there that will take you all the way to Big Rock.
From Big Rock to the Top
This is the point where the incredible vistas start to open up. You’ll be tempted stop and take a lot of pictures. Go for it! but rest assured the views get better and better. Save time for Big Rock, you’ll get some incredible images there.
After a rest and some incredible photography at Big Rock, the trail is distinct & easy to follow. You’ll start heading up the mountain but the trail veers right after a few minutes. There is only about a half mile to go from this point.
Arriving at the top
Once you’re at the top of the trail, you’ll either arrive to the largest free-hanging American Flag or an incredible view of Coldwater Canyon and Weber County.
The pine tree forest on the south side of the canyon is a gorgeous green during the summer and even more beautiful when the trees are flocked with snow in the winter.
Is Coldwater Canyon A Loop?
It used to be, but we don’t advise it at this time. Once at the top, the trail continues back and will work it’s way down the canyon, but at some point the trail is fenced off.
It’s best to hike to the top, maybe explore into the canyon a little bit, but when you’re done, return along the same trail you hiked up.
What Else should you know about Coldwater Canyon?
Many crossing trails at the beginning
Until the point you’re below big rock. There are a lot of of potential trails to use. During the display of The Major, these are labeled Black Diamond (steeper trails) and Blue Square (more gradual trails). When they’re not labeled, it doesn’t matter too much, as long as you work you’re way back to Big Rock.
When they’re labeled for The Major, there is also a Green Circle trail– meaning easiest. We don’t recommend this route, it is much longer and no easier than the Blue Square option.
Year Round Signage
There is minimal marking on the trail year round. At the beginning of the trail there is a small marker pointing the direction of the trail – take the right fork and from there the main marker to know you’re on the right path is Big Rock. Work your way there by taking the switch backs with a grade closest to your comfort level.
When should you Hike Coldwater Canyon?
You will see hikers on this trail year around.
Time of year
Whether they’re in hiking boots & cross trainers or skis & snow shoes, this trails gets used year round. During the winter, it’s not uncommon to see ski-trails along the face of the mountain.
Of course for most individuals Spring, Summer, & Fall will offer the best experiences.
There was actually talk about extending Nordic Valley Ski Resort over to this side of the mountain. Locals know there wasn’t enough snow during the ski season to justify this.
Time of day
One of the most amazing spectacles when The Major is up is the trail of flashlights moving up and down the mountain after dark.
When The Major is not on display, it’s still common to see of hikers’ flashlights (and many fast moving mountain bikers), on the trail well after sunset. Some mornings, you’ll see an the lights of an early-rising trail runner.
This trail is accessible all times of day. We recommend checking North Ogden weather to make sure it’s not too hot.
History of Coldwater Canyon
2020 & Covid
Parking at the trailhead has always been easy, except when The Major is out. This was not so once the trail was dry enough to hike in 2020. With the indoors inaccessible, many people were in the mountains all along the Wasatch Front. Coldwater Canyon and other trails were crowded!
Those living close the Rocky & Wasatch Mountains were lucky to have the outdoors so conveniently accessible.
Conclusion
North Ogden’s Coldwater Canyon is a gorgeous hike and beautiful area to spend a few hours. With the easy access to the trail and trailhead, hikers return again and again.
Most days are a great day to spend in Coldwater Canyon. You should certainly make this hike when The Major is on display. There is not a soul on Earth who would not be interested in hearing about a hike to The Major.
It’s also a trail with
- Easily find even if driving from far away.
- Gorgeous view spanning 4 counties
- Different levels of grade to accommodate all levels of hikers
- A convenient morning hike that will let you have the rest of your day open
- A welcome break from any stress going on in the world