Hiking Adam’s Canyon (and Waterfall!) Trail

The Beta

This trail is super gorgeous! The 3.8-mile trail rises out from the foothills into a decently thick forest with lots of shade. You’ll be walking next to a small stream for most of the ascent and descent. Then, the trail turns upwards and leaves you standing at the base of a magnificent 40-foot waterfall, covering a total of about 1,430 feet of elevation. It’s a must-do if you’re in the area, in my opinion!

Quick Beta

• Mileage: 3.8 miles
• Elevation gain: 1,430 ft
• Highest Point: 6,168 ft
• Best time to visit: Late May through mid-October
• Total hiking time: 2 hours with a stop at the top!
• Number of Lakes: 0
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Dog-friendly: Yes, on-leash.
• Gear I brought: Backpack, snacks, water, knife, hiking boots, sunglasses, sunscreen, first aid kit, compass, water filter

The hike

The hike starts out through the foothills of Layton through a series of sandy switchbacks. From here, the trail breaks through the switchbacks and leads you into the canyon. Once you head into the canyon, you’ll be following a trickling stream. It’s quite peaceful to walk beside!

After about a mile, you’ll arrive at a beautiful waterfall! I thought this was the waterfall at first since I didn’t research the hike (my friends did, oops!). From here, continue on for less than a mile to reach the real waterfall!

Need to Know

This trail is not very steep, despite the 1,400 feet of elevation gain in 2 miles. it’s a very gradual ascent and descent!

The first part of the hike is decently sun-exposed, so make sure to cover up, wear sunscreen, and bring a hat and sunglasses. You’ll eventually head into a forest where there’s more shade!

Dogs are allowed on this trail but must be kept on a leash. most dogs we saw on this trail were not on a leash which is a common trend I see among dog owners. I don’t think anyone ever checks if dogs are leashed, but it is the rule!

Justin’s Suggestion

Bring a camera and a snack for the falls! The waterfall is quite spectacular and is far larger than I anticipated. I’m glad I brought my camera along for the ride! If you’re doing this hike in warmer weather or during summertime, the water around the falls is great for kids to play in. Make sure to bring a towel if you’re going to play in the water – the hike back will be cold and soggy otherwise!

Take A Hike!

Have fun on this hike! It’s a super fun one to do in early spring since there’s a to of snowmelt crashing down the falls. If you’re looking for more waterfalls, check out my posts on Hidden Falls, Lisa Falls, and Gloria Falls!

See you out there!

Parting shot:

Next blog: More hikes. Maybe to waterfalls, maybe in Southern Utah. Who knows!?