Family-Friendly Hikes Near Layton Utah

Are you looking for a fun family activity that gets you out of the house and into nature? Hiking is a great way to spend quality time together while getting exercise and fresh air. Luckily, there are plenty of family-friendly hikes near Layton, Utah that everyone can enjoy.

Utah is known for its stunning natural beauty, and Layton is no exception. The city is surrounded by mountains, canyons, and trails that offer breathtaking views and a chance to explore the surrounding nature. From easy nature walks to more challenging hikes, there’s something for everyone. In this article, we’ll highlight some of the best family-friendly hikes in the area, so you can plan your next adventure with ease.

Hiking Safety Tips

Hiking is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and spend time with your family. However, it is important to take safety precautions to ensure a fun and safe experience. Some important hiking safety tips include packing enough water and snacks, wearing appropriate clothing and footwear, bringing a first aid kit, staying on marked trails, and informing someone of your hiking plans and expected return time. By following these tips, you can minimize the risk of accidents and injuries while enjoying the beauty of nature.

Bonneville Shoreline Trail: Layton Ridge to Fernwood Recreation Area

Layton Ridge Lookout, 3296 Layton Ridge Dr, Layton, UT 84040

Distance: 1.8 Miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 380 ft
Dogs Allowed: Yes

Bonneville Shoreline Trail, a popular hiking trail located near I-84, offers breathtaking views of the valley and is the perfect destination for hiking, jogging, or taking a leisurely stroll to soak up the stunning nature around you. With its vibrant fall foliage and lush greenery in the spring, the trail is a beautiful nature escape.

Let your furry friends splash around in the small river running down the river while you and your family can enjoy the serenity of the trail. The trail is dog friendly, though a leash and proper cleanup are required.

While the warmer months are ideal for a visit, the trail is accessible even during late winter if you’re willing to trek through the snow. Along the trail, you’ll discover benches, a picturesque bridge for family photos, and areas with plenty of open space for kids to run and play. The trail only takes around an hour to complete, so it’s perfect for a quick day out to enjoy a picnic and explore the mountains with your family. The Bonneville Shoreline also has a fantastic history, it’s a great way to educate your family on Utah’s history in a fun and engaging way.

Kays Creek Parkway

2721 N 2125 E, Layton, UT 84040

Distance: 4.5 Mile Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 267 ft
Dogs Allowed: Yes

Kays Creek Parkway is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Layton. The paved trail is perfect for walking, hiking, and biking. The trail is accessible to people of all ages and abilities, including kids, strollers, and wheelchairs. Some areas require extra precaution, as the hills can get a little steep. You’re encouraged to bring along your furry friends, as long as you keep them on a leash and clean up after them.

One highlight of this area is the popular Hobbs Reservoir. This reservoir is a frequently visited spot for fishing brown trout, cutthroat trout, and rainbow trout. If you’re an angler, be sure to familiarize yourself with the rules and guidelines for reservoir fishing before casting your line. Even if you’re not into fishing, the reservoir is a great place to relax and take in the scenery.

Adams Canyon Trail

N Eastside Dr E, Layton, UT 84040

Distance: 3.8 Miles Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,430 ft
Dogs Allowed: Yes

Adams Canyon Trail is a popular hiking trail in Layton at the mouth of Adams Canyon. The park has a large paved parking lot at the beginning of the trail with plenty of parking spots even on busier days. The trail is open year-round, but the best times to visit remain between April and October, unless you’re willing to brave the snow. 

The first part of the trail zig-zags up the mountain and can be a little difficult for some hikers to get up. There are fences along these parts for safety as you work your way up the mountain that is well taken care of and very helpful aid.

The end of the hike brings you to the beautiful Adams Canyon Waterfall. It’s the perfect place to take a break and enjoy the gorgeous scenery, even take some photos with your family and furry friends. You’re encouraged to bring your furry friends on this hike for a fun day with the entire family! 

Gailey Trail

1105 E. Nicholls Road Fruit Heights City, UT 84037

Distance: ~ 2 miles Out & Back
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 90 ft
Dogs Allowed: Yes

Gailey Trail at Nicholls Park is located just outside of Layton in Fruit Heights. This trail is also known as Bair Creek or Nicholls Hollow. It’s a popular destination for those looking to go on a fun outdoor run or hike. The trail is located right alongside Nicholls Park which makes it the perfect spot for a fun day for kids of all ages.

Large trees, a small creek, and different picturesque bridges and benches surround this beautiful forestry trail. It’s the perfect option for those looking for a serene day in nature without straying far from the city. Dogs are allowed in this park as long as proper rules are followed. All dogs must be leashed and owners handle any cleanup.

The wide wood chip trail is perfect for great traction, even during the wet months. The trail and park are open year-round and can be the perfect day adventure for you and your family.

East Mountain Wilderness Park Trail

1599 E 650 N, Kaysville, UT 84037

Distance: 1.3 Mile Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 170 ft
Dogs Allowed: Yes

Kaysville East Mountain Wilderness Park Trail is the perfect hiking trail for a family day out. It’s a short loop trail that takes less than an hour to complete, making it ideal for kids of all ages. Plus, the trail offers stunning scenery and is open year-round, so you can visit anytime. Bring your furry friend along too!

The trailhead is a great starting point for longer hikes, with access to the Great Western Trail and another section of the Bonneville Shoreline trail. You’ll also find an accessible bathroom open during the warmer months. The trail is a fantastic spot for bird-watching and wildlife encounters, providing an educational and engaging experience for children.

Legacy Parkway Trail

Legacy Parkway Trl, Farmington, UT 84025

Distance: 12.8 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 108 ft
Dogs Allowed: Yes

Legacy Parkway Trail in Farmington is a popular spot that makes the perfect outdoor adventure for families and individuals. The trail is paved and spans over 12 miles with over 16 access points that make it easy to start or turn around any point along the way. The access points are all van accessible, making it a great option for stroller and wheelchair users.

Legacy Parkway trail is open year-round and is an easy trail to follow making it great for families to go out on a fun adventure walk. While the trail can be busy, you can still find solitude during the day, and the width of the trail leaves plenty of room for everyone. It’s a brilliant spot to get some exercise and explore the natural beauty of the area.

Furry friends are welcomed as long as they remained leashed and owners handle all cleanup.

Buffalo Ranches Trail

1599-1541 S Glovers Ln, Farmington

Distance: 3.7 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 29 ft
Dogs Allowed: Yes

Buffalo Ranches Trail is a 3.7-mile loop trail near Farmington. The trail takes just over an hour to complete and explores the wetlands of Farmington. They paved the trail throughout most of it and is the perfect spot to view the local wildlife with your family.

Buffalo Ranches Trail is a fantastic spot for outdoor lovers. It goes around two different ponds that are filled with aquatic life and different birds. The trail is a great opportunity to educate your family on different birds and aquatic life that are found in the Utah area. The trail also goes near Farmington Ranches Park, which has tennis courts, a great playground, restrooms, and more.

Your furry friends are welcome to come along, as long as they remained leashed.

Conclusion

Layton Utah offers some of the best family-friendly hikes that are perfect for creating unforgettable memories with your loved ones. From the stunning views of the Great Salt Lake from the Bonneville Shoreline Trail to the scenic beauty of the Adams Canyon Trail, there’s something for everyone. These hikes are not only great for physical exercise but also provide an excellent opportunity to bond with your loved ones while experiencing the great outdoors.