The best waterfall hikes and walks around Great Salt Lake

Start your hike to Adam’s Canyon Lower Falls, an easy 0.6-mile (1.0 km) route that offers a quick escape into nature. You will gain 244 feet (74 metres) in elevation, a journey that typically takes around 19 minutes. The initial climb provides expansive views of the Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island before you enter the canyon. As you approach the falls, the path becomes rockier, with a stream running alongside, adding to the canyon's charm. The highlight is the chance to walk behind the 20 to 25-foot Adam's Canyon Lower Falls itself.

While the trail is generally considered kid-friendly, be aware that the final descent to the waterfall can be steep and rocky, so careful footing is essential. There are no official trail markers for the turn-off to the Lower Falls, which means you need to pay close attention to directions. Look for a right turn after the tenth switchback to stay on track. Planning your visit during daylight hours is recommended to navigate these sections safely.

This short but rewarding trail is located within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, offering a unique opportunity to experience a canyon environment. The chance to walk behind a waterfall sets this route apart from many others in the region. It provides a distinct natural feature that makes it a notable destination for a brief outdoor adventure.

Embark on the Adams Canyon Trail, a moderate hike spanning 3.9 miles (6.2 km) with a significant elevation gain of 1376 feet (419 metres). You will begin with exposed, sandy switchbacks that offer expansive views of the valley and the Great Salt Lake before descending into the cooler, shaded canyon. The route follows Holmes Creek, leading you through diverse forest landscapes and past several smaller waterfalls, culminating in the impressive 40-foot Adams Canyon Waterfall. Expect to spend around 2 hours and 18 minutes completing this rewarding journey.

Planning your visit requires some foresight, as this popular trail can become very crowded, especially on summer weekends; an early start is highly recommended to avoid the busiest times. If you are considering a winter hike, be sure to check for avalanche danger, as the narrow canyon can pose risks during colder months. The trail is dog-friendly, allowing you to bring your canine companion along for the adventure.

Located within Utah's Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, the Adams Canyon Trail is renowned for its dramatic 40-foot waterfall, which serves as a major draw for hikers in the region. The final section leading to the main falls is particularly steep and rocky, requiring some scrambling, adding an adventurous element to your experience. This route offers a dynamic blend of open vistas and secluded canyon environments, making it a notable destination for those seeking a challenging yet accessible outdoor escape.

Embark on an easy hike along the Adams Canyon Trail, a 1.2-mile (1.9 km) route that guides you through varied terrain with a gentle ascent of 227 feet (69 metres). You can expect to complete this scenic journey in about 35 minutes. As you begin, you'll find impressive overlooks of the valley, offering views of the Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island before the path leads you into a shaded forest environment following Holmes Creek.

This trail is quite popular, especially during weekends and holidays, so consider starting your hike early to avoid the busiest times. While this specific route is short and accessible, be aware that the full Adams Canyon Trail extends further to upper falls and presents a more challenging experience. The trail welcomes dogs and is generally open year-round, but it's always a good idea to check for current local conditions before you head out.

Located within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, the Adams Canyon Trail offers a refreshing escape into nature. A key highlight you'll encounter is Adam's Canyon Lower Falls, a beautiful 20 to 25-foot cascade that you can reach within approximately 20 minutes from the trailhead. This makes it a perfect choice if you're looking for a quick, rewarding outdoor experience with a waterfall payoff.

The Adam's Canyon Lower Falls loop offers a dynamic hiking experience, transitioning from exposed, sandy switchbacks with sweeping views of the Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island to a lush canyon environment. You'll navigate a moderate 5.2-mile (8.3 km) path with 792 feet (241 metres) of elevation gain, leading to the refreshing 15-foot Lower Falls on Holmes Creek. The trail terrain is varied, with a steep initial climb giving way to a more level path before a final scramble to the waterfall, making it a rewarding adventure for those who enjoy diverse landscapes.

Planning your visit to Adam's Canyon Lower Falls is straightforward, with the trailhead conveniently located right off Highway 89. Due to its popularity, especially for families, parking at Adam's Canyon Lower Falls trailhead can be competitive, so arriving early is a good strategy. The estimated time for this hike is around 2 hours and 27 minutes, and it's considered dog-friendly, allowing leashed pets to join the fun. Consider seasonal conditions; while the waterfall flows consistently, warmer weather enhances the experience of cooling off in the shallow pool.

This trail is notable for its accessibility and the high payoff of its scenic viewpoints and the waterfall, making it a favorite among Adam's Canyon hiking routes. It's important to distinguish this route to the Lower Falls from the longer, more strenuous hike to the Upper Falls. The trail's family-friendly nature, despite the initial steepness and final scramble, makes it a great option for an active outing near Layton, Utah, offering both a workout and a beautiful natural reward.