The best walks and hikes around South Jordan

Yes, South Jordan has excellent paved trails perfect for a gentle walk. The McMahon Bay – Oquirrh Lake loop from Daybreak is a great option, offering a flat path around the lake in the Daybreak community. Another local favorite is the Jordan River Parkway Trail, a long-distance paved path that follows the river through parks and wetlands.

For a unique family adventure, the hike to Donut Falls is a popular choice. It's a relatively short and easy trail in Big Cottonwood Canyon that leads to a waterfall flowing through a hole in the rock. The trail follows a creek through a forest, making it an engaging walk for all ages.

Absolutely. Besides the family-friendly Donut Falls, Bells Canyon is a classic destination for waterfall hikes. The trail offers a more strenuous journey to a beautiful lower waterfall, rewarding hikers with impressive views of the Salt Lake Valley along the way.

Many trails in the area are dog-friendly, but rules can vary. Millcreek Canyon is a well-known, scenic canyon that has specific on-leash and off-leash days for dogs. On even-numbered days, dogs must be on a leash, while on odd-numbered days, they can be off-leash. Always check local regulations for the specific trail you plan to visit before you go.

Spring and fall offer the most pleasant temperatures for hiking. Summer mornings are also ideal for getting out before the afternoon heat. For something special, late July and August are peak wildflower season in the higher elevations, like the trail to Cecret Lake in Little Cottonwood Canyon, which becomes covered in vibrant blooms.

While many trails in the immediate South Jordan area are easy to moderate, more challenging hikes are just a short drive away in the Wasatch Mountains. For a longer, more strenuous outing, consider the Sunrise Point – Dimple Dell East Trailhead loop. This nearly 7.5-mile trail provides a good workout with rewarding views through Dimple Dell Regional Park.

The trails around South Jordan offer great opportunities for wildlife spotting. Along the Jordan River Parkway, you might see deer, pheasants, and a wide variety of birdlife in the wetlands. In the nearby canyons, it's common to spot moose, deer, and hummingbirds, especially in lush areas like those on the way to Cecret Lake.

The Jordan River Parkway is an extensive trail network. For detailed maps and information on access points and trail segments, you can visit the official Salt Lake City parks website. You can find more information here: Jordan River Parkway Trail.

Yes, the Rocky Passage – Bear Canyon suspension bridge loop from Hidden Hills features the area's famous 185-foot-long suspension bridge. This route offers fantastic views of the Salt Lake Valley and the Wasatch Mountains as you cross the canyon.

There is a wide variety of trails to explore, with over 35 routes available on Komoot. The selection includes 25 easy walks and 12 moderate hikes, ensuring there's a suitable option for every fitness level, from flat paved paths to ascents into the foothills.

The region is highly rated by the Komoot community. Hikers often praise the variety of trails, from the accessible, paved paths like the Jordan River Parkway to the scenic mountain trails in the nearby canyons. The well-maintained routes and beautiful views of the valley and mountains are frequently mentioned.