Family-Friendly Hikes in Utah

Utah has some of the best hiking trails in the United States. There are so many hiking trails throughout Utah so you can easily find some excellent trails that are convenient for all ages.  There are many outdoor activities all over the state to choose from so you can always go on new adventures with the family. So, when the kids start pestering you about being bored during the summer or when the homework is done. Tell them to take a hike, pack the bug spray and water bottles, get in the car, and get on your way for family fun outdoors. Here are a few family-friendly hikes we recommend.

 

Farmington Creek Trail

This is a lovely family-friendly path that can easily be made into a long hike, or a simple family evening stroll. You have many options for your starting point, right around 300 North in Farmington is a great starting point I personally think. Since the trail is located behind Lagoon amusement park you will pass the Lagoon Zoo and can hear the screams from the Colossus. The Farmington Creek trail begins in the shady trees heading North, you can stop on the way in the shaded picnic areas, the tunnels and bridges make for a fun stroller-friendly walk. A little less than one mile there is a small climb and gateway trail to Farmington Pond. The Pond is a great spot to fish, picnic, or enjoy the ducks. This is a great turnaround point, with a 1.6-mile trail. If you are up for it, it’s a climb to the Farmington Creek Trail and a small climb to see the Farmington Bigfoot Statue. Allow that part of the trail may not be stroller friendly.

 

Cecret Lake Trail 

This is a very popular and short (1.7 miles) hiking trail in Utah, so don’t plan on having the lake all to yourself, as many others are enjoying the lake. The wildlife and scenery on this trail are stunning, this trail is an excellent place to spot moose. Whether you are coming from Salt Lake City or Provo as you are arriving at the mouth of Little Cottonwood Canyon you will come to a junction with Wasatch Blvd. You will turn right at the junction continuing up the canyon for about 10 miles until you reach the Albion Basin, which is known for its stunning wildflowers. Once you pass the booth and the gate there is a parking area where the trailhead begins. As you are passing under the ski lifts for the portion of the hike walking through the colorful wildflowers there is a bit of an incline on the last section of the hike. Once you’ve overcome the climb and are enjoying the beautiful scenery, enjoying a snack, and replenishing, you will see Sugarloaf Mountain to the South, Mount Baldy to the West, and Devils Castle to the Southeast, which can branch off into many other trails.  Unfortunately, this is a no dog allowed trail.

 

Mirror Lake Shoreline Trail

This trail is located in the Uintah Mountains which are known for being the most scenic mountain ranges in the United States. There are over 500 hiking trails just in the Unitahs alone. This trail is an easy family favorite. This is a comfortable and flat trail that is a 2.1-mile-long loop going around the lake, although it is somewhat busy, it is cool and shady most of the way. This trail is a great way to access many fishing spots around the lake.  You get the walk the shoreline with the beautiful lake views and the mountain views in the background are quite spectacular.

 

Mesa Arch Trail 

This is a fun family-friendly hike in Canyonlands National Park. This trail is perfect for families and beginners. There is a Mesa Arch parking lot located about six miles after the Islands in the Sky Visitor Center. From there, there is a Y split path, don’t worry both trails lead you to the Arch. The Trail0.7 miles long and easily labeled with directions and guides on how to hike the trail. Be watchful of children around the arch, as the slick rock can lead to falls. This location is famously known, and one of the most photographed scenes in Utah. The arch is a beautiful site to see no matter what time of day, but if end up here around sunset or sunrise stay and watch it. It is an absolutely stunning view, worth staying the extra few minutes.

 

Bloods Lake Trail

This Trail is a popular and fun family-friendly hike near Park City. This one is a bit more moderate hiking compared to others that have been previously mentioned. When you are exploring you will likely encounter other people, due to the popularity of the area, the parking lot tends to fill up quickly. Once you get to the parking lot, you cross the road near where the restrooms are, to begin the hike. The hike starts off in the thick trees and shaded area and quickly begins to climb following the ridgeline up. The scenery along the way is beautiful and shaded with aspen trees, and once you reach Broods Lake you will understand why it is such a popular hiking trail. The water itself is absolutely serine, as it mirrors the pine trees.

 

Adams Canyon Trail

The Adams Canyon Trail is one of the most popular trails in Davis County. Located just off HWY 89 in Layton. The beautiful scenery, nice, shaded trail, and accessibility play a big part in the popularity of this trail. This is a moderate trail, that is 3.8 miles long. So, if you got the little’s with ya, be careful in the upper section of the trail due to the steep incline and rocky areas. The views and climb are well worth it. From the parking lot the trail winds up and you begin to climb, the sand may make you put a bit more effort into the climb. Don’t let this stop you from getting over that hill, once you cross the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, you drop down to creek level and this is where Adams Canyon begins, this trail follows the North fork the scenery is incredible from this point, and the trail is covered with beautiful white pines, oaks, and the lower stream. The trail can get rugged with steep slopes and rocky areas, and you get closer to the top. Once you have gotten to the top, take a break and enjoy the views, and cool off in the natural wading pool.