Here in Utah, we have some of the very best hiking trails in the country. Utahns enjoy hundreds of hiking trails — we certainly have no shortage of beautiful vistas, aspen-lined trails, and clear mountain air. But many of Utah’s hikes are admittedly more difficult, climbing hundreds of feet in elevation and for advanced hikers only. But not all. We’ve chosen the following hikes that are suitable for beginners and families; these hikes are so easy your grandma can come along! (And we mean that with the upmost respect, because Utah grandmas are a tough bunch!) These Utah hikes will let you see some of the most beautiful places in The Beehive State:
If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate
This paved, two-mile walk meanders from the parking lot along the Virgin River to a narrow opening in the canyon — where more agile hikers can continue on the Zion Narrows Trail. Riverside Walk offers some breathtaking views and is almost completely flat, making it a perfect medium-sized hike for beginners! To find the trailhead, get off the Zion Shuttle at the Temple of Sinawava stop.
Lower Emerald Pools Trail is an easy, 1.2-mile hike shaded by cottonwood trees. It’s only a 70-foot change of elevation, so it’s perfect for hikers of all ages and abilities. The falls are best in the spring and start to dry up to a trickle during late summer. Start your hike at Zion Lodge by crossing the footbridge and following the signs.
This shady hike ends at a little waterfall where you can splash around and cool off on a hot summer day. It can be somewhat slippery in spots, so take care. Find the Grotto Falls trailhead about 7 miles up Payson Canyon — it’s just .6 miles round-trip.
This short trail around Silver Lake is mostly ADA accessible. Walk on boardwalks across marshes and over small tributaries. Much of the hike is shaded by aspens and pines. The boardwalk starts from the Silver Lake Center at Brighton. This hike is just .75 miles round trip.
Visit hoodoos, walk along the stream and enjoy the coolness of the shelter cave. This mile-long hike does have a few short, steep sections, but overall is easy. Find the trailhead from Hwy 12, about 4 miles past the main entrance to Bryce.
This hike is full of wildflowers. In fact, it’s designated a U.S. Forest Service Wildflower Viewing Area! Take the Tony Grove turnoff about 15 miles up Logan Canyon, then proceed about 6 miles to the end of the road. This hike is the perfect length, clocking in at a total of 1.3 miles.
See hundreds of Fremont Indian drawings on the walls of Dry Fork Canyon. The trail is part of McConkie Ranch, which is private property but can be accessed for a small fee. From Dry Fork Canyon Road in Vernal, turn onto 3500 West, then drive 6 miles McConkie Ranch.
Mill B South is a paved trail, accessible to wheelchairs (though parts are slightly steep). The trail, which runs along a Big Cottonwood creek, culminates with a small waterfall. 0.7 miles roundtrip. The trailhead is 4.4 miles from the mouth of Big Cottonwood Canyon.
This very short hike ends with a hidden waterfall. It’s unpaved, but only gains 40 feet of elevation, so most kids should be able to handle it without any problems. To get to the trailhead, drive 4.4 miles up Big Cottonwood Canyon. Take the lower left trail. This is one of the shorter Utah hikes you can take — just .3 miles round-trip!
Mesa Arch is popular with photographers. It’s also a beautiful but short hike that will take you to the edge of the rim where you’ll have a magnificent view of the arch. Go at sunrise for the best pics. Access the trailhead from the parking lot on Grand View Point Road. This hike is a little over a half mile.
Cascade Springs offers several boardwalk trails featuring pools, springs and cascading water. The shady area is home to tons of wildlife — watch for trout in the myriad pools. To get there, take the Alpine Loop and drive to the summit. Make sure to watch for the Cascade turnoff.
This trail, located on the bench above Ogden, has six springs and a pond. Oh… and birds for days (hence, the name!). Start your hike at the parking lot at Rainbow Gardens, or on 20th Street and Fillmore Avenue. This hike is 1 mile, round-trip.
Accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, this short, easy hike offers interpretive signs and plenty of wildflowers. After a short .4 miles, you’ll come to the end of the route — a wooden deck that overlooks the valley. Start at Snowbird Center’s third level. Follow the wheelchair ramp to the ski area, then traverse a couple switchbacks to reach the trailhead. .08 miles roundtrip.
Even though these hikes are all very short and easy, don’t forget that you’re still heading off into the Utah wilderness. Take along plenty of water, some snacks, a jacket and some sunscreen. The elevation may be challenging for out-of-state visitors and those with breathing or heart problems.
For more beautiful (and accessible) Utah hikes, be sure to check out this hiking bucket list, featuring 15 of the most gorgeous, must-take hikes in the state!
Source onlyinyourstate.com