We’ve had Adam’s Canyon Waterfall on our list for a long time. A few years ago, we did the lower falls, but we had never done the longer, more difficult hike to the big waterfall. We knew this one was much steeper and longer, and we were finally prepared to complete it.
Trailhead Info
The trailhead for Adam’s Canyon Waterfall is located in Layton. You will find the trailhead at 600 N Eastside Dr in Layton right off of the US-89. There is a nice sized parking lot on both sides of the road. This trail is very popular and parking can fill up quickly during busy times like the weekend and summer, so plan accordingly. Try to hike on a weekday or go early in the morning. We recommend hiking in the fall. The trail wasn’t very busy even on a Saturday and the weather was perfect.
The trail starts at the southeast end of the east parking lot and runs right along the fence. It starts out steep, but it is wide and easy as it zigzags up the side of the hill. There is a fence along the trail, which serves the double purpose of curbing erosion and keeping hikers from attempting to shortcut straight up the mountainside. The switchbacks offer lots of opportunities to turn back and look out over the valley.
Hike Info
Eventually, you come to the Bonneville Shoreline Trail (BST), which runs north and south. Unfortunately, you cross that level trail and continue straight up the mountain. The overall elevation gain on this hike is 1400 feet, and you feel everyone of them. Even though the roundtrip distance is 3.5 miles, 1.75 of that is straight up to the waterfall. For this reason, we rate this hike as moderate to difficult.
After crossing the BST, the hike is as pleasant as it gets. It mostly flattens out, or at least the slope is a lot more gentle as it parallels the creek. Much of this section is shaded, and the foliage is pretty thick. Since we visited in late Fall, there were even a few autumn colors hanging around. Enjoy this section of the hike as it is wonderful.
Just before you get to the final climb, you come to a bridge. This sturdy wooden structure takes you across the creek. That’s where the hike starts its steepest and most strenuous section. The trail is narrow and very rocky, and it climbs as steeply as a ladder. There aren’t really any scrambles, but there are a few places where it is steep enough that you’ll use your hands to boost you along. This section seems to take forever, and it does, because you really have to take it very slowly.
When you finally round that last corner and the Adam’s Canyon waterfall comes into view, it really is worth it. This cascade is a fairly wide curtain, and you can get right up close. On a hot day, the spray is so refreshing! We spent a long time just sitting at the base and enjoying the view.
Heading Down the Trail
Don’t underestimate the hike down. Because it is so steep, it is very hard on the knees and toes. Though falling isn’t a major concern, there are slippery rocks and your ankles will hurt when you finish. Be careful over that first steep section. Using hiking poles will help on the way up, but they will be even more useful on the way day. Once you get off the granite rocks, you can zombie walk back to the parking lot.
We enjoyed this hike, but it is not for the faint of heart. We wouldn’t take toddlers or those with health concerns. Adam’s Canyon Waterfall is a hike that all serious Utah hikers should do at least once! If you would like some easier waterfall ideas, check out our Easy Waterfalls in Utah Post.
