The best walks and hikes around Draper

Embark on a moderate hike along the Ghost Falls via Lower Corner Canyon Trail, a 5.5-mile (8.9 km) route that winds through shaded trees and scrub oak forests. You will gain 987 feet (301 metres) in elevation, and the journey typically takes around 2 hours and 39 minutes to complete. As you follow the dirt path, you will cross several small bridges over a stream, leading you to the trail's highlight: Ghost Falls, a beautiful waterfall nestled within a grotto of boulders and diverse plant life.

When planning your visit, be aware that this is a popular multi-use trail, so you will likely share the path with mountain bikers, especially on weekends. For the best experience of Ghost Falls with strong water flow, aim to hike in early spring when the snowmelt feeds the falls. Remember that much of this trail is within a watershed area, which means dogs are generally not permitted on the route.

This trail offers a pleasant escape within Corner Canyon Regional Park, providing a mild climb with rewarding scenery. Keep an eye out for views of the valley and the LDS Draper Temple during the initial parts of your hike. The unique setting of Ghost Falls, tucked away in its grotto, makes this a distinctive and enjoyable outdoor experience in the Draper, Utah area.

The Woods Hollow, Eagle Crest, and South Maple Hollow Loop offers a dynamic hiking experience with diverse terrain and rewarding views. You'll traverse groomed singletrack, pass through groves of scrub maple and oak brush that burst with fall colors, and encounter some rocky sections, particularly on the South Maple Hollow climb. From higher points, you'll be treated to expansive vistas of Utah Valley, including Utah Lake, and the impressive Wasatch Front mountains, making it one of the popular trails routes in the area. This moderate 4.8-mile (7.7 km) loop with 617 feet (188 metres) of elevation gain typically takes around 2 hours and 24 minutes.

For planning your visit, the South Maple Hollow trailhead provides convenient amenities such as bathrooms, water, and a shaded picnic area. Due to its south-facing sections, this trail tends to dry out quickly and warms up earlier in the season, offering a longer window for comfortable hiking. It's a great option for those looking to get out on the trails when others might still be inaccessible, so consider seasonal considerations when planning your trip.

This trail system is a hub of activity, serving as an important access point to other trails in the Traverse Mountain area, including downhill-only mountain biking routes. The versatility of the loop allows for various configurations, appealing to both hikers and mountain bikers. Its ability to be accessed earlier and later in the season compared to many other trails in the region makes it a notable and reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

The Lone Rock via Peak View Trail offers a fantastic moderate hike, perfect for those seeking impressive views without an all-day commitment. You'll ascend 985 feet (300 metres) over 2.8 miles (4.5 km), reaching the iconic Lone Rock in about 1 hour and 40 minutes. The trail starts with a gradual climb, transitioning through sandy and gravelly sections, and rewards you with expansive vistas of Utah County and Utah Lake from Lone Rock itself.

This route is particularly good for families or anyone looking for a solid workout with a clear destination. While the larger area is known for its extreme trails, this specific segment is approachable. Parking is generally available at the trailhead, but arriving earlier in the day is always a good strategy to secure a spot and enjoy the trail in cooler conditions.

Lone Rock is a notable feature, visible from Draper, and serves as a popular local landmark and viewpoint. This trail provides a taste of the rugged Lone Peak Wilderness Area, showcasing diverse terrain from scrub oak to open ridges, making it a great introduction to the region's natural beauty.

The Enniss Peak Loop is a demanding hike that takes you through diverse ecosystems, from lower scrubland to high alpine meadows. You'll navigate steep switchbacks and rugged, rocky paths, with the terrain becoming progressively more challenging as you ascend. Keep an eye out for wildlife like mule deer and golden eagles, and enjoy the changing scenery as you climb towards the summit.

This difficult 12.2-mile (19.6 km) route involves a significant 4724 feet (1440 metres) of elevation gain, requiring around 7 hours and 45 minutes to complete. It's best attempted from late spring to early fall when the trail is free of snow, and good physical preparation is essential. Be sure to carry enough water for the strenuous climb.

What makes this trail stand out is its challenging nature and the rewarding, expansive views of the Salt Lake Valley and the Wasatch Range. The distinctive 'Jacob's Ladder' section is a memorable feature, known for its steepness and panoramic vistas, making it a notable adventure for experienced hikers.