Oh, my goodness! Adam’s Canyon has a special place in my heart because it is one of the first hikes I could remember going on as a kid. The hike is amazing in hundreds of ways- whether it be the 40-foot waterfall at the end, or the miles of creek side views throughout the hike. It is easy to make the claim that if you go to Adam’s Canyon you will not be disappointed.
Adams Canyon is a very popular hike among the residents of Layton and the surrounding cities. The 3.8-mile hike contains 2 waterfalls and a shady creek side hike for the majority of the adventure. Named after a war of 1812 veteran, Elias Adams who came to the valley in 1850. Elias was born in Vermont in 1792 and traveled to Utah with his family. Shortly after their arrival Elias and his sons built a Dam which help them create one of the first irrigation systems in the mountain west. Elias and his family also started building a cabin in 1852 from the lumber found in Adam’s Canyon. There are two cabins that overlook the Canyon and both of which you can go see.
The hike for the most part is very easy- it starts with several switch backs, among one of the switch backs is a stone with Elias’ story carved into it. The switch backs account for very little of the hike. Once you’ve completed the switch backs, you’ll enjoy most of the hike surrounded by trees and a small creek beside you. The next mile or two will be the easier parts of the hike. For the last mile the trail becomes rocky which makes it a little more difficult to maneuver. Majority of people will be able to continue small children may need some assistance. Throughout the hike there will be many places you may stop and have a quick snack or break as you catch your breath. Remember the creek I told you about?? Yes, a few times during the hike you will get to cross over the creek by small brides. As a kid this was one of my favorite parts- I’m not sure why- I think it just give that adventure feeling to a small kid. At the top of the hike at right before you can see the waterfall you will need to cross the creek without the help of bridges- some people have created a small bridge out of river rocks, but they can be slippery, and someone can slip and fall in the creek. The water is not deep at all, it will reach the top of your ankles. On hot summer days the water is nice and cool and helps to cool off.
The best times to go are during spring through fall. There will be snow at the beginning of spring and the end of fall. Snow on the trail makes it slippery and makes it difficult for some to hike to the top. When I was headed down the hike, I slipped a good 15 yards before I was able to catch some sure ground to slow myself. So be careful as you head back down. The hike will take a good 4 hours depending on how fast or slow you hike. Bring water and snacks or if you’d like to pack a lunch you can! But just so you know there isn’t too many places to sit and eat a lunch at the very top. There will be some rocks you can sit on but there are very few. So, my advice would be to either eat the lunch before or after you reach the top- this way you can be comfortable when you eat and also you will be out of the sun.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a good hike with the family Adams is a great choice. For the 3.8-mile hike it has 2 waterfalls and other great views. I was only 6 when I reach the top for the first time, so its an enjoyable hike for all ages. Whatever your choice drive safe, make right choices- And get up and roam this week!!
-Ayden Scott
