Red Butte Garden

Difficulty: Easy | Location: 300 Wakara Way | Distance: 1.9 miles

Perched on the University of Utah campus, Red Butte Garden's 1.9-mile paved loop delivers a botanical crash course in Utah's native plants without punishing your stroller wheels. The children's area is pure magic—giant lizard statues, a caterpillar maze that'll mesmerize the littles, and a massive terracotta pot featuring a fire pole slide that'll make them squeal with delight.

Open year-round, this peaceful retreat doubles as a wildlife watching spot where birds, butterflies, and squirrels put on a free show. Feeling adventurous? Unpaved trails offer extra exploration. Just keep an eye out for wildlife as you stick to clear paths..

This short, easy hike includes a few hills with 452 feet of elevation gain and typically takes about an hour to complete.

Entry fees are $8 for children ages 3–17, $16 for adults ages 18–64, and $14 for seniors 65 and older. Children under 2 are admitted for free. Garden hours vary by day and season and can be found online.

Parking: Red Butte Garden and Arboretum has free parking outside the gardens. 

Liberty Park Loop 

Difficulty: Easy  | Location: 600 Harvey Milk Blvd | Distance: 1.4-mile loop

Smack in the heart of the Liberty Wells neighborhood, Liberty Park delivers an urban oasis where your stroller wheels won't skip a beat. The paved 1.4-mile loop is perfect for a leisurely roll—go counterclockwise to catch ducks gliding across the pond and squirrels playing tag with tree trunks. Dog spotting is practically guaranteed, so animal-loving kiddos will be in heaven.

Make a day of it by popping into Tracy Aviary in the southwest corner, where feathered residents of all shapes and sizes await. The northwestern playground is a hit with the younger crowd, while carnival rides in the center of the park offer affordable thrills at just $3 per ticket.

Parking: The paved 1.4-mile sidewalk surrounding Liberty Park has free parking along the entire loop. 

Miller Bird Refuge and Nature Park 

Difficulty: Easy | Location: Miller Park Path

Miller Bird Refuge and Nature Park brings the chill factor with a stroller-friendly path that hugs Red Butte Creek through cool, shaded sections. This peaceful pocket of nature offers the perfect low-key adventure for families needing a break from city buzz.

Wildlife watching is prime here—birds, squirrels, and occasionally a harmless garter snake might cross your path. Interpretive signs turn your walk into a mini-education session, sharing cool facts about the park's history and natural features. It's the perfect spot when you need a dose of nature without committing to a whole day in the mountains

Parking: There is street parking available at the park's address 1710 E 900 S or at Bonneville Glen (a connected park) which has a large parking lot at 1050 S 1500 E. 

Bonneville Shoreline Trail — Natural History Museum of Utah to This is The Place Heritage Park

Difficulty: Easy  | Location: Salt Lake City Foothills | Distance: 3.5 miles

The Bonneville Shoreline Trail traces the ancient Lake Bonneville shoreline for 100 miles, but don't worry—we're just talking about the family-friendly 3.5-mile section on Salt Lake's East Bench. Start at Colorow Road below the Natural History Museum and end up behind This Is the Place Heritage Park for a perfect one-way adventure.

Little bird nerds will spot hawks, magpies, finches, and sparrows along the way, while parents soak in those jaw-dropping valley views. The path is unpaved and rocky in spots, so leave the stroller at home, but confident walkers will handle it just fine.

Spring and fall bring perfect hiking weather. Summer shines too, just hit the trail in mornings or evenings when trails are cooler and the scenery is just as stunning..

Parking: Street parking is available on Colorow Road, though there is a three-hour limit.

Silver Lake Loop 

Difficulty: Easy | Location: Big Cottonwood Canyon | Distance: 0.9 miles

Tucked between Brighton and Solitude ski resorts in Big Cottonwood Canyon, Silver Lake Loop offers 0.9 miles of pure alpine magic. The trail features charming boardwalk sections near the water (keep those little ones close to the middle) and smooth dirt paths perfect for confident walkers. Leave the stroller in the car for this one.

At 8,700 feet elevation, this subalpine lake delivers a delicious escape from summer valley heat and transforms into a living painting during Utah's fall color explosion. Wildlife sightings might include deer or moose—keep a respectful distance and use the moment to teach kids about admiring nature from afar.

The loop takes about 19 minutes at a relaxed pace—perfect for short attention spans. Swimming isn't allowed (let's keep that crystal water pristine), and since Big Cottonwood Canyon is a protected watershed, pets need to sit this one out.

Parking: The loop begins at a paved, pay-to-park parking lot that puts you steps from the trail—no long treks before the actual hike even begins. 

Donut Falls 

Difficulty: Easy  | Location: Big Cottonwood Canyon | Distance: 3.3 miles

Donut Falls is Utah's celebrity trail for good reason—a 3.3-mile out-and-back adventure delivering showstopper views through stands of Douglas firs and Engelmann spruce. The big payoff? A waterfall that punches through a hole in the rock (hence the name) for a finale that makes kids' jaws drop.

While the trail distance is manageable, parts run close to water. Melting snow turns gentle streams into mini-rapids so keep kiddos close and save the rock scrambling for a different trail.

When you get to the falls remember to admire them from a distance—spray from the falls makes the rocks here extra slippery.

Parking: Park at the pay-to-park Donut Falls Trailhead off Big Cottonwood Canyon Road, but arrive early on weekends when parking fills faster than a donut shop at breakfast. The nearby Mill D Trailhead offers backup parking if needed. Restrooms await at the trailhead.

Hidden Falls 

Difficulty: Moderate | Location: Big Cottonwood Canyon | Distance: 0.2 miles

Hidden Falls delivers maximum wow factor with minimum effort—just 0.2 miles round trip, taking all of five minutes to complete. It's the perfect "my first hike" for tiny explorers or an easy add-on to your canyon day.

The path is straightforward, though you'll need to cross the road from parking to reach the trailhead. Dirt and rocks make up most of the terrain, with a few boulder-hops near the falls that kids find thrilling.

Bonus points for spotting the old, gated mine along the way—instant history lesson! The waterfall itself delivers the perfect backdrop for those "yes, we hiked with the kids" photos.

No dogs allowed—we're protecting the watershed here—but the quick adventure and cool reward make Hidden Falls a family favorite.

Parking: Parking is available in a small lot at the "S" curve on Big Cottonwood Canyon Road, but spaces vanish quickly on weekends.

Lisa Falls

Difficulty: Moderate | Location: Little Cottonwood Canyon | Distance: 0.2 miles

Little Cottonwood Canyon's Lisa Falls packs major reward into minimal hiking—this 0.2-mile out-and-back trail leads to picture-perfect waterfall views in just seven minutes flat. While rated moderate, most ages handle it well, making it perfect for families with mixed hiking abilities.

The trail takes you to lower Lisa Falls, which is spectacular enough. Those with younger children should resist the temptation to continue to the upper falls, where the route gets technical and potentially dangerous for inexperienced hikers.

For prime conditions, visit between May and October, avoiding winter's slippery surfaces.

With its tiny distance-to-payoff ratio, Lisa Falls is perfect for families wanting to dip their toes into canyon adventures without committing to a half-day trek.

Parking: Parking sits conveniently along the canyon road, though early birds get the best spots.

Gloria Falls 

Difficulty: Moderate  | Location: Little Cottonwood Canyon | Distance: 2.2 miles

Tucked into stunning Little Cottonwood Canyon, Gloria Falls offers families a 2.2-mile out-and-back journey to a pristine waterfall. This moderately challenging trail takes around 1 hour and 25 minutes, making it ideal for families with kids who've already got a few hikes under their belts.

The route showcases the canyon's natural splendor at every turn. Thanks to its higher elevation, you'll enjoy refreshingly cooler temperatures than the valley floor—even during the height of summer. Spring and fall hikers should toss an extra layer in the backpack for comfort.

Parking: Gloria Falls shares a small parking area with the Red Pine Lake and White Pine Lake trails, located just before Snowbird Ski Resort's first parking entrance. The lot fills quickly, but additional parking exists along certain sections of Little Cottonwood Canyon Road (check signage carefully to avoid tickets). Restrooms await at the trailhead—always a plus for families.

Cecret Lake

Difficulty: Moderate | Location: Little Cottonwood Canyon | Distance: 1.8 miles

Wildflower lovers, this one's for you. Cecret Lake in Albion Basin (yes, that's how it's spelled) delivers Mother Nature's most spectacular flower show from mid-July through August. Tucked near the top of Little Cottonwood Canyon, this alpine paradise offers sweet relief from the summer valley heat.

The 1.8-mile out-and-back trail is moderately challenging and typically takes about an hour to complete. Rocky, unpaved paths provide the perfect playground for energetic kids who love scrambling over boulders.

To access this hidden gem, you'll stop at a pay station toward the top of Little Cottonwood Canyon Road. The Town of Alta charges a $12 amenity fee to access the Alta Summer Road. This unpaved route usually opens in June or July (snow permitting) and typically stays accessible until November 1.

Parking: The paid-parking lot isn't guaranteed, and roadside parking is prohibited—those tickets are real, folks. Check Alta's website for current road status before heading up.

Lake Mary Trail 

Difficulty: Moderate | Location: Big Cottonwood Canyon | Distance: 2.3 miles

Lake Mary Trail at Brighton Ski Resort combines adventure and jaw-dropping scenery in one perfect 2.3-mile package. This out-and-back trail delivers some of the most spectacular alpine views in the area, leading to the glass-smooth waters of Lake Mary—a worthy destination for families willing to put in a bit of effort.

The moderately challenging route typically takes about 1.5 hours, depending on how many photo stops you make (spoiler alert: many). It's ideal for families with older children or younger kids who've already built up some hiking stamina. The well-maintained trail features a steady climb with plenty of shaded spots for catching your breath while pretending to admire the wildflowers.

Find the trailhead near Brighton Ski Resort, where summer parking is plentiful. Since you're so close to Silver Lake, ambitious families can hit both lakes in a single day for double the alpine goodness.

Lake Mary itself is pure mountain magic—a crystal-clear alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks that practically beg to be photographed. It's the perfect spot to refuel with snacks while the kids skip stones across the water. For families craving more, continue past Lake Mary to nearby Lake Martha or Lake Catherine for a triple-lake adventure.

Parking: Park at the Brighton lot, where parking spots won't be an issue in the summer months. Check for signs regarding payment for parking. 

Lower Bell Canyon Reservoir 

Difficulty: Moderate | Location: Sandy | Distance: 2.4-mile loop

Lower Bell Canyon Reservoir delivers a perfect nature fix with its 2.4-mile loop that takes just over an hour to complete. Winding through piney forests at the base of Little Cottonwood Canyon in Sandy, this moderately challenging trail leads to sparkling waters backdropped by Bell Canyon's impressive peaks.

This well-maintained path is perfect for families with adventure-loving kids, though parents should keep watchful eyes near the water's edge (swimming is prohibited, but try telling that to enthusiastic youngsters). The peaceful setting shines brightest in late spring and early fall when temperatures are just right.

Benches, bathrooms, picnic tables, and bike racks at the trailhead make this one of the most family-friendly setups in the valley.

Parking: The trailhead parking lot off Wasatch Boulevard and 9600 South offers 133 stalls, though weekends can turn finding a spot into a competitive sport. Weekday visits mean less crowding and easier parking.

The Living Room 

Difficulty: Moderate | Location: 383 Colorow Rd | Distance:2.3 miles

The Living Room Trail earned its quirky name from the rock formations at the summit—natural "furniture" that's just begging for silly family photos. This 2.3-mile out-and-back adventure winds through the foothills above the University of Utah, rewarding hikers with sweeping views of the Salt Lake Valley and distant glimpses of the Great Salt Lake.

Rated moderately difficult, the trail features some narrow passages, consistent inclines, and rocky terrain. Parents should remind little ones to watch their step—protruding rocks along the way are just waiting to trip up distracted hikers.

Spring and fall bring ideal hiking conditions, when valley temperatures are comfortable and rattlesnakes are less likely to be sunbathing along the trail.

Parking: Find parking at the south end of Colorow Road (note the three-hour time limit).

Pipeline Overlook via Rattlesnake Gulch Trail 

Difficulty: Moderate  | Location: Millcreek Canyon | Distance: 3.9 miles

Millcreek Canyon's hidden treasure, the Pipeline Overlook via Rattlesnake Gulch Trail, offers 3.9 miles of moderate out-and-back hiking with some rocky, uneven terrain—perfect for families with older children or young hikers who've graduated from beginner trails. Most complete the journey in about two hours.

Summer visitors should start early, as the exposed trail catches serious sun by midday. Spring and fall bring cooler temperatures, though possibly muddy conditions. Check the forecast and pack layers—mountain weather loves to surprise.

The overlook delivers postcard-worthy views of the Salt Lake Valley—the perfect backdrop for a trail mix break or impromptu picnic.

Unlike the Cottonwood Canyons, dogs are welcome in Millcreek—with a twist. On even-numbered days, pups must stay leashed everywhere. On odd-numbered days, they can explore off-leash on trails but must be leashed in picnic areas, parking lots, and roadways.

Parking: A medium-sized parking lot welcomes visitors at the trailhead, complete with restroom facilities. Like most popular trails, early arrival is your friend. Remember that exiting Millcreek Canyon requires a $5 use fee, payable by card only (no cash since 2019).

Ensign Peak 

Difficulty: Moderate | Location: Salt Lake City | Distance: 0.9 miles

Perched just north of downtown, Ensign Peak might be the most convenient urban hike in America. This quick 0.9-mile out-and-back trail lets families squeeze in mountain time before hitting the city's attractions—the perfect urban-outdoor combo that defines Salt Lake.

The route includes moderate inclines and scattered rocks but remains doable for most kids. Just remind your crew to pace themselves and watch their footing. The summit rewards your effort with breathtaking views of downtown, surrounding mountains, and the legendary Great Salt Lake—the largest saline lake in the Western Hemisphere.

History buffs will appreciate the summit's significance as the spot where Brigham Young and early Mormon pioneers surveyed the valley and planned what would become Salt Lake City. The peak was named for the "standard" or flag they intended to raise, symbolizing their journey. A monument marks this historic lookout.

The descent requires careful stepping to avoid twisted ankles. This hike shines brightest in mornings or evenings when temperatures are milder and the light paints the city gold. With its perfect location and panoramic vistas, Ensign Peak delivers big adventure in a small package—ideal for families with limited time.

Due to its lower elevation, summer brings serious heat. Spring and autumn offer perfect conditions, but if hiking between June and August, start early and bring extra water.

Parking: Street parking is available along the residential road at the trailhead.

Bear Canyon Suspension Bridge 

Difficulty: Moderate  | Location: Draper | Distance: 2.3 miles

Just 20 minutes south of Salt Lake City, Bear Canyon Suspension Bridge delivers a moderately challenging 2.3-mile loop with serious wow factor. The well-maintained but unpaved trail features a steady climb that gets the heart pumping. Low vegetation means limited shade but unlimited views of the valley below. The star attraction—a dramatic suspension bridge—waits at the loop's apex, guaranteed to thrill kids and parents alike.

Late spring or early fall brings the best conditions, when the trail isn't muddy from snowmelt or snowfall. Summer hikers should aim for evening outings when temperatures drop to comfortable levels. Sunset trekkers score the bonus of orange-painted skies, but if you're descending after dark, bring flashlights or headlamps for everyone.

Parking: The trailhead's medium-sized parking lot offers convenient access, complete with trail information and restroom facilities—two things that can make or break a family hike.

Best times to hike 

Spring, summer, and fall each offer unique hiking experiences around Salt Lake. Spring and fall mornings can surprise you with chilly temperatures, so pack extra layers and rain protection just in case.

Summer brings higher temperatures to lower-elevation trails near the city—sometimes exceeding 100°F. Beat the heat with early morning starts or evening adventures when the sun's intensity fades. Dress in lightweight, breathable layers that shield skin from UV rays, and hydrate like it's your job—before, during, and after hitting the trail.

Winter transforms some of these hikes into avalanche terrain. If significant snow blankets the mountains, stick to urban trails—especially with children in tow. As a rule, avalanche season typically runs November through April. 

Hiking Essentials 

Every family member needs to have:

• Water — one liter per person for every two hours of hiking
• Sun protection — sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are necessary because higher altitudes mean more UV
• Bug deterrent — you want stunning memories and photographs,  not itchy souvenir bites
• Calorie-dense snacks — the perfect chance to indulge
• Flashlight — especially if you plan to bask in sunset views

Additionally, one responsible adult should carry a first aid kit, compass, and map. While smartphones can be convenient, seasoned hikers warn against relying on them—they lose signal, and batteries die at the worst possible moments. If your phone is your lifeline, bring a portable charger and download trail maps for offline use before leaving your lodgings.

Trailhead & Parking Accessibility 

Most Salt Lake trailheads offer parking lots, but spaces disappear quickly during peak times. Street parking may be available nearby, but pay attention to signs—restrictions vary by area and season, with non-compliance resulting in fines or a missing vehicle.

Safety Tips for Families

Children follow your lead on the trail—stay on designated paths, respect wildlife from a distance, and be alert to hidden hazards like venomous snakes tucked among plants.

Stay out of the water—while the rivers and streams may look like a friendly way to cool off, most of the water comes from melting snow. That means they are very cold and are moving faster than it seems. The same goes for the lakes (plus many are watershed areas, so it is also against the law.)

Salt Lake's natural areas host diverse wildlife including deer, moose, birds, mountain lions, and snakes. Observing these creatures from a distance creates magical memories, but proximity creates danger. Maintain at least 100 yards from larger animals like moose (which can be surprisingly aggressive) and 25 yards from smaller creatures.

Make noise as you hike—conversation or low-volume music alerts wildlife to your presence, giving them time to move away. Stay alert to your surroundings; listen for warning sounds, and watch for animal tracks or droppings indicating nearby wildlife.

If you encounter large or dangerous wildlife on the trails: stay calm while leading children to safety. Most often that means backing up slowly the way you came. Picking up your kids and taking a wide stance to appear larger if you encounter a bigger animal will help. If you spot dangerous wildlife, alert other hikers you pass.

Don't eat the plants, or drink water from natural sources. Seems like common sense, but stick with the snacks and drinks you brought with you to avoid any potentially dangerous ones.

If someone gets hurt, call 911. They will be able to provide the best advice and assistance specific to your emergency. 

Whether you're in Salt Lake for a quick weekend, a special event, or an extended adventure, these family-friendly trails deliver views that will fill your camera roll and create memories that last far longer than sore muscles.

Looking for more ways to experience Salt Lake's perfect balance of urban energy and outdoor escape? From our vibrant downtown to mountain peaks just minutes away, Salt Lake serves up adventures for every season and style.

Dive into our restaurant scene after a morning hike, catch a Utah Jazz game after an afternoon on the trails, or explore world-class museums between outdoor adventures. Our sweet spot is waiting—just 15 minutes from the airport to downtown, and 30 minutes from downtown to the slopes. Make Salt Lake your next family adventure.