The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Salt Lake County

Salt Lake County offers a wide variety of hiking experiences suitable for families. Our guide features over 150 routes, with more than 75 of those categorized as easy, making them perfect for family outings.

Salt Lake County is an exceptional destination for family hiking due to its dramatic and diverse natural landscape. The majestic Wasatch Mountains provide stunning backdrops, with glacially carved canyons like Big Cottonwood and Little Cottonwood offering easily accessible trails. Many trailheads are just minutes from downtown Salt Lake City, providing convenient access to alpine lakes, forested paths, and panoramic viewpoints.

The best time for family hiking in Salt Lake County is generally from late spring through early fall (May to October). During these months, trails are typically clear of snow, and the weather is pleasant. Higher elevation trails, especially those leading to alpine lakes, are best enjoyed from mid-summer to early fall once the snow has fully melted.

The komoot community highly rates the trails in Salt Lake County, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 250 ratings. Hikers frequently praise the stunning mountain views, the accessibility of many trails, and the diverse natural features like waterfalls and alpine lakes that make for memorable family adventures.

Absolutely! A popular family-friendly option is the trail to Bells Canyon Lower Falls, which offers a beautiful waterfall viewpoint. Another unique experience is the trail to Donut Falls in Big Cottonwood Canyon, known for its distinctive waterfall cascading through a hole in the rock.

Yes, the Wasatch Mountains are dotted with picturesque alpine lakes. The Lake Catherine via Brighton Lakes Trail is a great option, leading to one of the interconnected lakes near Brighton. Another excellent choice is the Silver Lake Nature Trail & Loop, an easy boardwalk around Silver Lake in Big Cottonwood Canyon, perfect for all ages.

For panoramic views, consider the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, which offers excellent vistas of the Salt Lake Valley and surrounding mountains. Ensign Peak, a short and easy hike, also provides historical significance and sweeping views of the city and the Great Salt Lake. Another popular spot is The Living Room, known for its unique rock formations and picturesque city views.

While many mountain trails are unpaved, the Silver Lake Nature Trail & Loop in Big Cottonwood Canyon is a notable exception, featuring an easy boardwalk that is suitable for strollers. For longer paved options, the Jordan River Parkway Trail offers extensive paved sections ideal for families with strollers or young children.

Dog policies vary by location within Salt Lake County. For example, trails in Big Cottonwood Canyon and Little Cottonwood Canyon have strict regulations regarding dogs due to watershed protection. However, many sections of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail and the Jordan River Parkway Trail are generally dog-friendly, often requiring dogs to be on a leash. Always check specific trail regulations before heading out with your pet.

Yes, circular routes are great for families as they bring you back to your starting point. The Sugar House Park Loop is an easy, short loop perfect for a quick family stroll. For a slightly longer but still manageable option, the Silver Lake Nature Trail & Loop provides a beautiful alpine experience.

Salt Lake County's diverse ecosystems support various wildlife. In the mountain canyons and forests, you might spot deer, moose, elk, and a variety of bird species. Near alpine lakes, look for smaller mammals and waterfowl. Always observe wildlife from a distance and avoid disturbing their natural habitats.

Many trails offer access to natural landmarks. For instance, the Bear Canyon Bridge via Bonneville Shoreline Trail leads to the impressive Bear Canyon suspension bridge. You can also find stunning natural monuments like Lake Blanche and the Living Room Viewpoint, which offer unique geological features and expansive views.