Easy hikes and walks around South Jordan

The Oquirrh Lake Long Loop offers a delightful, easy stroll around a scenic man-made lake, perfect for a relaxed day out. This 3.8-mile (6.2 km) route features continuous views of Oquirrh Lake, often reflecting the distant mountains, and you’ll spot various birds like ducks and geese along the way. The path is mostly paved, with some gravel sections, making it a smooth journey with minimal 55 feet (17 metres) of elevation gain.

Planning your visit is straightforward for this accessible trail. The Oquirrh Lake Long Loop trail difficulty and length make it suitable for all ages and abilities, including those with strollers or wheelchairs. You can easily shorten your hike using the convenient bridges that cross the lake, and benches are available for breaks. For the best light and atmosphere, consider an early morning or late afternoon visit.

This trail stands out for its unique blend of urban convenience and natural beauty within the Daybreak community. Beyond hiking, Oquirrh Lake is a local favorite for activities like kayaking and paddleboarding, and you might even enjoy some wildlife spotting along the shoreline. It's a well-maintained space that offers a refreshing escape without leaving the city.

Embark on an easy hike along the Dimple Dell Trail, a refreshing escape into nature right within Sandy, Utah. This route spans 3.3 miles (5.3 km) and involves a gentle elevation gain of 465 feet (142 metres), making it perfect for a quick outing. You can expect to complete the loop in about 1 hour and 28 minutes, winding through a diverse landscape that transitions from mixed forests to desert elements and lush greenbelts, often following a gully carved by a creek bed.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as Dimple Dell Regional Park offers multiple access points. Parking is generally available at these various trailheads around the park's perimeter. The trails are well-maintained and suitable for a wide range of users, including hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. While largely considered easy, be prepared for some moderate elevation changes as you descend into and climb out of the gully.

This trail is a natural oasis, providing a sanctuary for native vegetation and open meadows. As you explore, keep an eye out for local wildlife such as deer, foxes, and various bird species. The route also offers impressive, expansive views of the majestic Wasatch Mountains, providing a scenic backdrop to your outdoor adventure.

Embark on an easy hike along the White City Canal Trail, a 4.6-mile (7.3 km) route that offers a unique blend of urban scenery and distant mountain views. You will gain a gentle 103 feet (32 metres) in elevation, making this a relaxed outing that takes about 1 hour and 52 minutes to complete. The path follows an old canal, providing a mix of paved and gravel surfaces. A highlight is crossing the impressive 347-foot pedestrian bridge over Dimple Dell canyon, which gives you a distinct perspective of the area. While some parts pass behind residential areas, the overall experience is a pleasant escape.

This multi-use path is designed for accessibility, with both paved and gravel sections suitable for various users, including those with disabilities. You can bring your dog along for the hike, but always keep them on a leash and be sure to clean up after them to maintain the trail's cleanliness. As a recently opened route, it offers a fresh option for outdoor activity.

The trail provides an interesting contrast of urban development and natural elements, with glimpses of surrounding mountains like Mount Jordan. Its course along an old canal path connects you to a broader network of trails, serving as a useful urban corridor for exploration. This makes it a practical starting point for longer adventures or a convenient short escape.

The Jordan River Parkway Trail: Shields Lane - Big Bend offers a delightful blend of urban convenience and natural beauty, following the winding Jordan River. You'll find yourself on a mostly paved, flat path, perfect for a relaxed walk or a family outing. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, especially birds near the Midas Ponds, and enjoy distant views of the Wasatch Mountains that frame the horizon. This section provides a taste of the larger Jordan River Parkway Trail system, showcasing its diverse scenery.

This easy 3.0-mile (4.8 km) route, with only 22 feet (7 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 12 minutes to complete, making it an ideal choice for beginners or those seeking a low-impact activity. Access is simple, with numerous trailheads along the route often equipped with restrooms and picnic areas. It's a great option for a casual stroll any time of year, though spring and autumn provide particularly pleasant weather conditions.

Part of the extensive 45-mile Jordan River Parkway Trail, this segment is a prime example of how nature can be integrated into an urban environment. Its accessibility and gentle terrain make it a popular choice for family-friendly hikes and those looking for an easy way to connect with nature close to home. The trail's connection to Utah's Golden Spoke Trail Network also highlights its importance as a regional recreational asset.