Discover the Best Family-Friendly Hiking Trails in Utah’s National Parks
Introduction
Utah is known for its stunning national parks, filled with breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures. While many may think of hiking as a strenuous activity, there are plenty of family-friendly hiking trails in the national parks of Utah that are suitable for all ages and skill levels. These trails offer a chance for families to bond, explore nature, and create lasting memories. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at some of the best family-friendly hiking trails in the national parks of Utah.
Section 1: Arches National Park
Located in eastern Utah, Arches National Park is a popular destination for families seeking outdoor adventures. With over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, this park offers a unique hiking experience for all ages. Here are some of the best family-friendly hiking trails in Arches National Park:
1. The Windows Trail
This easy 1-mile roundtrip trail takes hikers to the North and South Windows, two of the largest arches in the park. The trail is mostly flat and well-maintained, making it suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. Along the way, visitors can take in stunning views of the surrounding landscape and see other arches such as Turret Arch and Double Arch. This trail is perfect for families with young children or those looking for a shorter hike.
2. Delicate Arch Viewpoint Trail
The iconic Delicate Arch is a must-see when visiting Arches National Park, but the hike to the arch itself can be challenging for families with young children. The Delicate Arch Viewpoint Trail, on the other hand, is an easy 0.5-mile roundtrip trail that offers a distant but equally stunning view of the arch. The trail is paved and has benches along the way, making it a great option for families with strollers or wheelchairs.
3. Sand Dune Arch Trail
Located in the Devil’s Garden area of the park, the Sand Dune Arch Trail is a short and easy 0.3-mile roundtrip hike that leads to a secluded sandstone arch. Along the way, hikers will pass through a narrow slot canyon and can even stop for a picnic at the sandy base of the arch. This trail is perfect for families looking for a unique and fun hiking experience.
Section 2: Zion National Park
Zion National Park is a favorite among families due to its stunning scenery and family-friendly hiking trails. Located in southern Utah, this park offers a variety of trails suitable for all ages and abilities. Here are some of the best family-friendly hiking trails in Zion National Park:
1. Riverside Walk
The Riverside Walk is a popular trail that follows the Virgin River through a narrow canyon. This easy 2.2-mile roundtrip hike is paved and mostly flat, making it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. Along the way, hikers can marvel at the towering cliffs and lush vegetation surrounding the trail. This trail also serves as the gateway to the famous Narrows hike, which is suitable for older children and adults.
2. Weeping Rock Trail
The Weeping Rock Trail is a short and easy 0.4-mile roundtrip hike that leads to a unique rock formation that appears to “weep” water. The trail is paved and has a slight incline, but the reward at the end is worth it. Families can stand under the overhang and feel the cool mist from the “weeping” rock. This trail is a great option for families with younger children or those looking for a quick hike.
3. Emerald Pools Trail
The Emerald Pools Trail is a moderate 3-mile roundtrip hike that takes hikers to a series of pools and waterfalls. The lower pool is a short 0.6-mile roundtrip hike, while the upper pool is a 1-mile roundtrip hike. The trail is mostly flat and well-maintained, but the upper pool has some steep sections. Families can cool off in the pools and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding canyons. This trail is best for families with older children or those with some hiking experience.
Section 3: Bryce Canyon National Park
Known for its unique rock formations called hoodoos, Bryce Canyon National Park offers a one-of-a-kind hiking experience for families. Located in southern Utah, this park has a variety of trails suitable for all ages and abilities. Here are some of the best family-friendly hiking trails in Bryce Canyon National Park:
1. Queen’s Garden Trail
The Queen’s Garden Trail is a moderate 1.8-mile roundtrip hike that takes hikers down into the Bryce Amphitheater, where they can see the famous Queen Victoria hoodoo. The trail is well-maintained and has some steep sections, but the views along the way are worth it. Families can also combine this trail with the Navajo Loop Trail for a longer and more challenging hike.
2. Mossy Cave Trail
The Mossy Cave Trail is an easy 0.8-mile roundtrip hike that leads to a small waterfall and a unique moss-covered cave. The trail is mostly flat and well-marked, making it suitable for families with young children. This trail is also less crowded compared to other hikes in the park, giving families a chance to enjoy the serene beauty of the canyon.
3. Bristlecone Loop Trail
The Bristlecone Loop Trail is an easy 1-mile roundtrip hike that takes hikers through a grove of ancient bristlecone pines, some of the oldest trees in the world. Along the way, families can learn about the unique adaptations of these trees and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape. This trail is perfect for families looking for a peaceful and educational hike.
Section 4: Capitol Reef National Park
Located in south-central Utah, Capitol Reef National Park is a hidden gem with stunning landscapes and unique hiking opportunities. Here are some of the best family-friendly hiking trails in Capitol Reef National Park:
1. Hickman Bridge Trail
The Hickman Bridge Trail is a moderate 2-mile roundtrip hike that takes families to a natural bridge spanning 133 feet. The trail is well-maintained and has some steep sections, but the views of the surrounding cliffs and canyons make it worth the effort. This trail is also a great spot for birdwatching, as many species can be seen along the way.
2. Grand Wash Trail
The Grand Wash Trail is a moderate 4.4-mile roundtrip hike that takes hikers through a scenic and narrow canyon. The trail is mostly flat and well-defined, making it suitable for families with young children. Along the way, visitors can see towering cliffs, unique rock formations, wildlife safari; new post from www.ozportal.tv, and even some petroglyphs. This trail is best for families with older children or those with some hiking experience.
3. Goosenecks Overlook Trail
The Goosenecks Overlook Trail is an easy 0.5-mile roundtrip hike that leads to a stunning viewpoint overlooking the Sulphur Creek Canyon. The trail is mostly flat and well-marked, making it suitable for all ages. Families can enjoy a picnic at the overlook while taking in the panoramic views of the colorful canyon below.
Conclusion
With its stunning landscapes and unique hiking opportunities, Utah’s national parks are the perfect destination for families seeking outdoor adventures. From easy, paved trails to moderate hikes through narrow canyons, there is something for everyone. So pack your hiking boots, grab your family, and start exploring these family-friendly hiking trails in the national parks of Utah.