Utah is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, and it’s also a fantastic place for families to explore the beauty of nature together. Here’s a guide to some of the best family-friendly hiking trails in Utah, complete with trail descriptions, difficulty levels, and amenities that make these hikes perfect for family outings.
Big Cottonwood Canyon, near Salt Lake City
Donut Falls is a popular trail that leads to a unique waterfall where the water pours through a hole in a rock, resembling a donut. The trail is approximately 1.5 miles round trip, making it a manageable hike for young children.
Easy
The trailhead has restrooms and parking. The path is well-marked, and the relatively short distance and gentle elevation gain make it ideal for families with small kids.
St. George
The Red Cliffs Desert Reserve offers several family-friendly trails. The Anasazi Ridge Petroglyph Trail is particularly engaging, with ancient petroglyphs along the way. The trail is about 2 miles round trip.
Easy to Moderate
There are restrooms and picnic areas at the trailhead. Interpretive signs along the trail provide educational opportunities about the history and geology of the area.
Big Cottonwood Canyon, near Brighton Ski Resort
Silver Lake Loop is a flat, easy hike around a beautiful alpine lake. The trail is about 0.8 miles long and features a boardwalk for part of the way, making it stroller-friendly.
Easy
The trailhead has restrooms and ample parking. There are benches and interpretive signs along the trail, making it a great educational outing.
Alpine Loop Scenic Byway, near Provo
Cascade Springs offers a series of boardwalks and bridges over a lush, spring-fed wetland area. The trail is a short 0.5-mile loop, perfect for young children and strollers.
Easy
There are restrooms and picnic areas at the trailhead. The area is filled with wildlife, making it an exciting adventure for kids to spot birds and small animals.
Zion National Park
The Canyon Overlook Trail provides stunning views of Zion Canyon. The trail is 1 mile round trip and includes some mild rock scrambling, which can be a fun challenge for older kids.
Moderate
The trailhead has restrooms and parking. While the trail is a bit more challenging, the payoff is worth it with incredible vistas that make for memorable family photos.
Albion Basin, near Alta Ski Resort
Cecret Lake Trail is a picturesque hike leading to a serene alpine lake. The trail is about 1.7 miles round trip and is particularly beautiful in the summer when wildflowers are in bloom.
Easy to Moderate
There are restrooms at the trailhead, and interpretive signs along the way provide information about the local flora and fauna. This hike is great for families looking to enjoy a leisurely day in nature.
American Fork Canyon
The Timpanogos Cave Trail is a paved, steep trail leading to the Timpanogos Cave National Monument. The trail is 1.5 miles one way, and guided tours of the cave are available.
Moderate to Difficult (due to elevation gain)
The visitor center at the trailhead has restrooms, water, and educational displays. The guided cave tours are a highlight, offering a unique underground adventure for families.