5 Summer Hikes To Do With Kids
1-Dominguez Hill/Escalante Cross: 1.7 mile out and back trail in Spanish Fork, Utah. Rated as easy and ends at the cross with beautiful views of the valley. Trail has a couple of steep downhill parts that are rocky and can be slippery for young feet. I held my 3 year old’s hand and we didn’t have any problems.
2- Dripping Rock: 0.7 mile out and back hike located in Spanish Fork, Utah. Rated as easy and paved the entire way. Scramble down to the stream and find the dripping rock. Let the kids play in the stream and enjoy.
3- Rocky Mouth Falls: 0.7 mile out and back hike located in Sandy, Utah. Rated as easy and ends in a waterfall which kids love. There is a small parking lot at the trailhead so I recommend going during the week and not on the weekend to ensure you get a parking spot. The stairs at the beginning look intimidating but they are short. After crossing through a neighborhood you are on the dirt trail that will take you to the waterfall. If you want more hiking after reaching the waterfall you can take the switchbacks up the south side and go to the top for great views. Otherwise, enjoy the waterfall and head back down. Easy and kid friendly.
4- Donut Falls: 3 mile out and back hike located in Big Cottonwood Canyon. Rated as easy and often crowded, pick your time wisely. I would not recommend going on a Saturday. The trail is flat and wide and kid friendly. Kids can play in the stream at the waterfall or if you are brave you can venture up the rocks to see the waterfall up close. I had my kids stay below with a friend while I went and explored the falls up close.
5- Maple Canyon to Whiting Campground: 2.4 mile out and back hike located in Mapleton, Utah. Rated as easy and mostly shaded. This is also a mountain biking and horse riding trail so be aware. We haven’t seen anyone else on the trail while hiking but my kids would love to see a horse out for a ride.