The best walks and hikes around Spring Lake
5.0
(1)
20
hikers
8
hikes
Hiking around Spring Lake offers a diverse landscape characterized by varied elevations, from gentle slopes to significant climbs. The region features trails that traverse hills, alongside creeks, and near lakes, providing a mix of natural environments. Hikers can explore paths through woodlands and open areas, encountering different geological formations. The terrain provides options for both short, easy walks and longer, more challenging mountain ascents.
Best hiking trails around Spring Lake
- The most popular hiking route is P Mountain and Little Mountain, a 0.8 miles (1.3 km) trail that takes 28 minutes to complete. This easy path includes a notable elevation gain of 419 feet (128 m).
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Bennie Creek Trail, a moderate 2.5 miles (4.1 km) path. This route follows a creek and features a substantial climb of 1,324 feet (404 m).
- Local hikers also love the Red Lake Trail, a 3.7 miles (5.9 km) trail leading through varied terrain near a lake, often completed in about 1 hour 48 minutes.
- Hiking around Spring Lake is defined by its hills, creeks, and lakes. The network offers options for different ability levels, from short, easy walks to difficult, long-distance mountain trails.
- The routes in Spring Lake are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 1 review. More than 20 hikers have used komoot to explore Spring Lake's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
1.34km
00:28
130m
0m
The P Mountain and Little Mountain trail offers a delightful, accessible hike with expansive views of the southern Utah Valley. You'll follow a generally level, rocky doubletrack path, primarily gravel, that winds along the ridge of Little Mountain. Keep an eye out for wildflowers and diverse vegetation against the mountainous backdrop, all while enjoying the fresh air and open scenery.
This trail is a quick 0.8-mile (1.3 km) outing with 419 feet (128 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 28 minutes to complete at an easy pace. It's a popular spot, so if you're driving, aim for an early start to secure a good parking spot at the trailhead. Since there's very little shade, consider hiking in cooler seasons or during the early morning to avoid the heat.
What truly makes this trail stand out is its connection to the prominent "Payson P" landmark, which you'll pass above. Despite its easy difficulty, it delivers impressive vistas, making it a fantastic option for families, dog owners, or anyone looking for a short, rewarding outdoor experience in Payson, Utah.
4.06km
01:28
400m
10m
Embark on the Bennie Creek Trail, a moderate hike spanning 2.5 miles (4.1 km) with a significant elevation gain of 1324 feet (404 metres). This route, which takes about 1 hour and 27 minutes to complete, guides you through a varied landscape of open meadows and dense coniferous forests. You'll also pass through beautiful aspen stands, with the year-round Bennie Creek often visible, where you might even spot beaver dams. Keep an eye out for expansive views of the Wasatch Range as you ascend.
Access to the Bennie Creek Trail is convenient, with parking generally available at the Grotto Trailhead. This makes starting your hike straightforward. Be aware that the trail is popular with mountain bikers, so stay alert for downhill traffic, especially on steeper sections of the path. Dogs are welcome to join you on this adventure, making it a great option for hiking with your canine companion.
Situated within the expansive Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, the Bennie Creek Trail offers a classic mountain hiking experience. The constant presence of the year-round Bennie Creek is a defining feature, providing a vibrant habitat where you might observe active beaver dams. This trail stands out for its blend of forest immersion and rewarding vistas of the majestic Wasatch Range, making it a notable option for those seeking a moderate challenge in the region.
Sign up for free
66.6km
19:05
1,650m
1,540m
Embark on the Mount Nebo National Scenic Byway, a challenging hiking route that stretches for 41.4 miles (66.6 km) through diverse landscapes. You will experience a significant elevation gain of 5425 feet (1654 metres) over an estimated 19 hours and 4 minutes, making this a demanding but rewarding adventure. As you hike, the terrain shifts dramatically from scrub oak to dense pine and aspen forests, offering varied scenery and a true sense of journey.
When planning your visit, be aware that the byway climbs to over 9,000 feet in elevation, so seasonal access can be limited by snow, especially during winter and early spring. Given the significant elevation changes and the route's difficult rating, you should consider bringing trekking poles for added stability on steeper sections. Always check local conditions before you go to ensure the trail is open and safe for hiking.
This route takes you through the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, providing expansive views of Utah Valley and the majestic Wasatch Mountains from various overlooks. Look for the striking red rock formations at Devil's Kitchen Geologic Interest Site, which offer a unique visual contrast to the surrounding greenery. The byway is particularly notable for its vibrant fall foliage, making autumn an especially scenic time to undertake this long-distance hike.
13
hikers
1.04km
00:19
40m
40m
The Grotto Trail offers a serene journey through an idyllic forest, tracing the base of Zion's towering canyon walls. You'll find yourself on a mostly wide, packed dirt path, enjoying ample shade and the chance to spot local wildlife like birds and deer. The highlight is undoubtedly the large lake, which on a calm day, mirrors the immense canyon walls, creating a truly picturesque scene.
This easy 0.6-mile (1.0 km) hiking route, with a minimal 121 feet (37 metres) of elevation gain, takes only about 19 minutes to complete, making it perfect for a quick, family-friendly outing. It connects the Zion Lodge to The Grotto Picnic Area, so access is straightforward. Always check Zion National Park's official site for any shuttle requirements or entrance fees before you go.
What makes this trail particularly special is its unique position within Zion National Park, offering a tranquil escape that can be easily combined with other iconic routes like the Emerald Pools and Kayenta Trails for a longer adventure. It's a fantastic option for those seeking a gentle introduction to the park's natural beauty or a peaceful interlude between more strenuous hikes.
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
5.90km
01:48
210m
210m
The Red Lake Trail in Utah County offers a delightful escape into nature, guiding you through a diverse landscape of dense forests and open meadows. You'll start with a gentle climb through mixed pine and aspen trees, which becomes steeper as you progress, eventually leading to a serene meadow about 0.9 miles (1.5 km) in. The highlight is undoubtedly Red Lake itself, a clear body of water surrounded by rugged cliffs and thick forest, providing a picturesque backdrop for your hike.
This easy 3.7-mile (5.9 km) out-and-back hike involves 681 feet (207 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 1 hour and 47 minutes. The trail is well-marked, though a digital map can be a useful companion. For the best experience, consider visiting in the fall when the aspen trees transform the landscape with their golden hues, making it a truly scenic time to explore.
Beyond the natural beauty, the Red Lake Trail area holds historical significance. Around the 1.8-mile (3 km) mark, you can find ancient petroglyphs, offering a fascinating glimpse into the Ute and Paiute tribes who once inhabited this region. It's a great opportunity to combine a beautiful hike with a touch of local history, and you might even spot wildlife like deer or elk.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
By the midpoint of Mt. Nebo Scenic Byway, near Twin Knolls Peak, this small parking lot offers a great view of Bald Mountain, at the other side of the valley. The whole road is absolutely mesmerizing, presenting the characteristic red sand color and some magnificent alpine landscapes.
0
0
Beaver Dam Overlook is a pullout on Mt Nebo Scenic Byway. It is a paved loop that has an informational plaque and great views over the valley below.
0
0
Small, yet idyllic waterfall set at the end of the Grotto Falls Trail. Small area in general, so try to visit early to enjoy the scenery without crowds.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of hiking trails can I expect around Spring Lake?
The Spring Lake region offers a diverse range of hiking experiences. You'll find everything from easy, paved loops suitable for all abilities, such as the 2.3-mile Spring Lake Loop Trail in California, to more challenging natural surface trails with moderate hills in the Spring Lake Natural Area in Texas. Coastal paths and boardwalks are prominent in Spring Lake, New Jersey, offering flat, scenic ocean views. In areas like Spring Lake Nature Area in Illinois, you can explore varied terrain including creeks and a sandstone formation waterfall.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes around Spring Lake?
Yes, there are several easy options perfect for families. The P Mountain and Little Mountain route is an easy hike covering just over 1.3 km. Another great choice is the Grotto Trail, which is also classified as easy and spans about 1 km. Many areas, like Spring Lake Regional Park in California, feature ADA-accessible paved trails, ideal for strollers or those seeking a gentle walk.
Where can I find trails with significant elevation or more challenging terrain?
For those seeking a challenge, the Mount Nebo National Scenic Byway offers a difficult, long-distance hike with over 1600 meters of ascent. The Spring Lake Natural Area in San Marcos, Texas, also features natural surface trails with moderate hills, providing a good workout amidst its Edwards Plateau landscapes.
Are there any trails that feature water or waterfalls?
Absolutely. The Spring Lake Nature Area near Streator, Illinois, is notable for its two creeks and a beautiful sandstone formation waterfall, making it a scenic spot for hikers. In California, Spring Lake Regional Park features a 72-acre lake and creeks, while the Spring Lake Natural Area in Texas is situated above the headwaters of the San Marcos River and includes a wetland area with a metal bridge for unique wildlife viewing.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on the trails?
Wildlife spotting is a highlight in many Spring Lake locations. In Spring Lake Regional Park, California, you might encounter turkeys, ducks, hawks, and deer. The Spring Lake Natural Area in Texas is home to diverse fauna, including deer and other large mammals, and is an ecologically significant area supporting five endangered species. The Spring Lake Nature Area in Illinois boasts deer, wild turkeys, beavers, squirrels, and various birds.
Are there any loop trails available around Spring Lake?
Yes, loop trails are a popular option. The Spring Lake Regional Park in California features a 2.3-mile paved Spring Lake Loop Trail. In New Jersey, the Belmar Beach loop is a 5.6-mile trail offering extensive beach and boardwalk access, perfect for a circular stroll with ocean views. For a slightly longer easy loop, consider the Red Lake Trail, which covers nearly 6 km.
What are the best times of year to hike around Spring Lake?
The best time to hike varies by location. For coastal areas like Spring Lake, New Jersey, spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for beach and boardwalk walks. In regions like California and Texas, spring brings vibrant wildflowers and milder weather, while fall provides comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage. Always check local conditions, especially during summer months when some areas might experience higher temperatures or humidity.
Are there any trails that connect to larger trail networks?
Yes, some Spring Lake locations offer excellent connectivity. Spring Lake Regional Park in Santa Rosa, California, connects to larger trail networks, including Howarth Park and Trione-Annadel State Park, providing extensive exploration options. In Perinton, New York, the Spring Lake Trail links to Channing Philbrick Park and connects two major trail systems: the Erie Canal Towpath Trail and the Seaway Trail.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the Spring Lake trails?
The Spring Lake region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from tranquil forests and creeks to scenic coastal views and unique natural features like waterfalls. The variety of trail difficulties, from easy paved paths to challenging ascents, is also frequently appreciated, catering to all experience levels.
Is there public transport access to any of the Spring Lake hiking areas?
While specific public transport details vary greatly by location, some Spring Lake areas are more accessible than others. For instance, Spring Lake Regional Park in Santa Rosa, California, is a well-established park within a populated area, often having local bus routes nearby. For detailed information on public transport options to specific trailheads, it's best to consult local transit authorities or park websites for the particular Spring Lake location you plan to visit.
Are there any trails suitable for bird watching or photography?
Many Spring Lake locations are excellent for bird watching and photography. The Spring Lake Natural Area in San Marcos, Texas, with its diverse flora and fauna, is ideal for birding and capturing the unique Edwards Plateau landscapes. Similarly, the Spring Lake Nature Area in Streator, Illinois, is popular for bird watching and photography, offering varied natural features including a towering, over 200-year-old cottonwood tree.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to look out for?
The Spring Lake areas boast several unique natural features. In Illinois, look for a sandstone formation waterfall and a towering, over 200-year-old cottonwood tree in the Spring Lake Nature Area. The Spring Lake Natural Area in Texas features typical Edwards Plateau landscapes, diverse flora like Mexican buckeye and Mountain Laurel, and a significant wetland area. In New York, Babci's Bridge, a timber bridge over Irondequoit Creek, is a notable landmark.
Most popular routes around Spring Lake
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
