Hiking during the dog days of summer can be a hot, sweaty experience depending on the location and temperature…but a waterfall payoff at the end can make it all worthwhile. This hike in Adams Canyon has some nice shady spots, a river and a gorgeous 40-foot waterfall at the end.
Find the trailhead right off Hwy 89 in Layton.
Utah Outdoor Activities/YouTube From 1200 North, turn onto Eastside road. The parking lot is near the end of the road.
The beginning of the trail is steep and sandy.
Utah Outdoor Activities/YouTube It’s tough going for the first little bit, but it’s worth it! The switchbacks take you up about 500 feet in elevation. This is one of the most strenuous sections of the hike.
Once you’re through the switchbacks, the trail levels out a bit…and you get this view!
Joshua S./Yelp
Utah Outdoor Activities/YouTube
Enter Adams Canyon, where the trail follows Holmes Creek.
Utah Outdoor Activities/YouTube
The temperature becomes a lot cooler near the water.
anchorlyss/YouTube You’ll pass by several small waterfalls along the way, and you’ll cross the river at a couple points.
The scenery along this hike is gorgeous!
Utah Outdoor Activities/YouTube
As you near the falls, the rocky climb gets steep again.
Utah Outdoor Activities/YouTube
But here’s the payoff: the 40-foot Adams Canyon Falls!
Joshua S./Yelp
Enjoy the mist from the waterfall…or even stand underneath it if you dare.
anchorlyss/YouTube That water is COLD!
This hike is 3.8 miles round trip, but the gorgeous waterfall at the end makes it worth every step.
anchorlyss/YouTube Bring plenty of water with you for this strenuous hike, and wear good hiking shoes (it’s steep and you’ll cross the river while balancing on rocks).
The Adams Canyon Waterfall hike is one of the most popular Davis County hikes, so expect to share the trails with others, especially on weekends. Escape crowds by hiking in the morning on a weekday. Feel free to bring your dog along on this trail, but please keep them on leash and clean up after them to keep the experience enjoyable for everyone.
Utah Outdoor Activities/YouTube
From 1200 North, turn onto Eastside road. The parking lot is near the end of the road.
It’s tough going for the first little bit, but it’s worth it! The switchbacks take you up about 500 feet in elevation. This is one of the most strenuous sections of the hike.
Joshua S./Yelp
anchorlyss/YouTube
You’ll pass by several small waterfalls along the way, and you’ll cross the river at a couple points.
That water is COLD!
Bring plenty of water with you for this strenuous hike, and wear good hiking shoes (it’s steep and you’ll cross the river while balancing on rocks).
Here’s a fun waterfall hike in the southern part of Utah: Kanarraville Falls. Check it out!
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