The best walks and hikes around American Fork
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Hiking around American Fork offers diverse landscapes within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, centered around American Fork Canyon. The region features river parkways, extensive forested areas, and dramatic canyon environments. Hikers encounter majestic peaks, alpine lakes, and picturesque waterfalls, alongside meadows and aspen groves. Some trails reveal limestone cliffs, showcasing the area's geological history.
Best hiking trails in American Fork
- The most popular hiking route is Battle Creek Falls Trail, a 1.2 miles (1.9 km) trail that takes 43 minutes to complete. This easy path leads directly to Battle Creek Falls.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Battle Creek Falls loop — Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, a moderate 7.6 miles (12.2 km) path. This loop explores varied forest terrain within the national forest.
- Local hikers also love the Grove Creek Spring via Grove Creek Trail — Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, a 5.9 miles (9.5 km) trail leading through forested canyon areas, often completed in about 3 hours 53 minutes.
- Hiking around American Fork is defined by river parkways, canyon trails, and forest paths. The network offers options for both easy walks and more challenging moderate routes.
- The routes in American Fork are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 10 reviews. More than 300 hikers have used komoot to explore American Fork's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
5.0
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6
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3.12km
01:05
170m
170m
Embark on an easy hiking adventure along the Grove Creek Trail, a 1.9-mile (3.1 km) route that guides you through changing landscapes. You will gain 573 feet (175 metres) in elevation, following the pleasant Grove Creek and passing several waterfalls. The trail offers a mix of scrub oak, pine, and aspen trees, culminating in incredible mountain and city views of Utah County and Utah Lake as you climb.
This hike is estimated to take about 1 hour and 4 minutes to complete, making it a perfect option for a quick outdoor escape. You can find parking conveniently available at the trailhead in Pleasant Grove. Dogs are welcome on the trail, often off-leash, and can easily access water from the creek, so it's a great spot for you and your canine companion.
Beyond the natural beauty, the Grove Creek Trail holds a unique local tradition. If you visit in early July, you might catch a glimpse of a giant American flag displayed within Grove Creek Canyon. This distinctive feature adds a touch of community spirit to your outdoor experience, setting the trail apart from others in the region.
1.19km
00:29
150m
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The Goat Mountain trail offers a delightful, easy hike, perfect for a quick escape into nature. This short route leads you to the serene Upper Pond, providing a peaceful destination for your efforts. Expect a consistent uphill climb that, despite the trail's brevity, gives you a satisfying sense of accomplishment, making it a great option for a refreshing outdoor break.
Planning your visit to this easy trail is straightforward. With a total distance of 0.7 miles (1.2 km) and an elevation gain of 478 feet (146 metres), you can complete the hike in about 28 minutes. This makes it an ideal choice for a spontaneous outing or for those seeking beginner hiking routes without complex logistics. Parking information isn't specified, but given the trail's nature, it's likely accessible.
This particular Goat Mountain trail stands out as a family-friendly option in the Utah County area, offering a gentle introduction to hiking. Its short length and easy difficulty make it suitable for all ages, providing a pleasant way to enjoy the outdoors. It's a nice alternative if you're looking for a quick nature fix without the commitment of longer, more challenging routes.
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10.4km
02:39
10m
100m
Hike the 6.4-mile Murdock Canal Trail to Jordan River Parkway, a moderate route offering varied urban and natural scenery.
13.3km
04:50
1,250m
90m
Hike the difficult 8.2-mile Mahogany North Peak to Grove Creek Canyon trail, gaining 4109 feet with panoramic views and canyon scenery.
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1.33km
00:21
10m
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The Highland Glen Park Loop offers a delightful, easy hike through a natural oasis, perfect for a quick escape. You'll wander along a mix of paved and dirt paths, surrounded by lush grassy meadows and abundant trees. The highlight is undoubtedly the serene Highland Glen Park Pond, where you can often spot ducks and other small wildlife, making it a charming experience for all ages. Keep an eye out for mountain views and, after a good rain, a small seasonal waterfall that adds to the park's picturesque scenery.
Planning your visit to this easy 0.8-mile (1.3 km) loop is straightforward, with plenty of amenities like a playground, picnic tables, and restrooms available at Highland Glen Park. The trail is dog-friendly, provided your pet is leashed, and it's accessible year-round, though spring and fall are particularly pleasant. With only 25 feet (8 metres) of elevation gain, this 20-minute hike is ideal for beginners or families looking for a gentle outdoor activity.
This family-friendly hike is a true gem, offering a tranquil setting within the city. Beyond the loop, you can connect to the larger Murdock Canal Trail, a paved path spanning 17 miles, if you're looking for a longer adventure. The park's central pond is also a popular spot for fishing, adding another recreational option to your visit.
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Tips from the Community
Located in between Highland and Cedar Hills, this little park has a pond in which you can kayak by your own means and have lunch afterward at the picnic tables. Little ducks and this natural oasis in the middle of the city make it the perfect place for a bite and a pic with the mountains as the background.
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This small but practical reservoir is vital to the city's irrigation system, providing additional water to nourish the landscaped areas and gardens. Its coverage extends to the newly developed regions within Highland, guaranteeing that the greenery remains healthy and thriving. From here, you can catch a glimpse of the breathtaking high mountains dominating in the background.
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Located in between Highland and Cedar Hills, this little park has a pond in which you can kayak by your own means and have lunch afterward at the picnic tables. Little ducks and this natural oasis in the middle of the city make it the perfect place for a bite and a pic with the mountains as the background.
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Highland Glen Park has a playground, pavilions, and a beach volleyball court. The park also has a large pond that allows swimming, although there is not a lifeguard on duty.
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Refreshing spring to stop at, cool off and enjoy the fresh water from the Grove Creek Spring.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around American Fork?
There are over 20 hiking trails around American Fork, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy and moderate routes.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families in American Fork?
Yes, American Fork offers several easy trails. For instance, the Battle Creek Falls Trail is an easy 1.9 km path that takes about 43 minutes to complete, leading directly to the falls. Another easy option is the Jordan River Parkway from Willow Park to Olympic Park, which is 7.1 km long.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around American Fork?
Hiking around American Fork features diverse terrain. You can expect established paths along river parkways, forested areas within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, and canyon environments. Trails range from relatively flat to those with significant elevation changes, particularly in the canyon and forest routes.
Are there any loop hikes in the American Fork area?
Yes, for those who prefer circular routes, the Battle Creek Falls loop — Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest is a popular moderate option. This 12.2 km loop explores varied forest terrain and takes approximately 4 hours and 33 minutes to complete.
What natural landmarks or points of interest can I see while hiking?
Hikers can discover several natural landmarks. The prominent Battle Creek Falls is a popular destination. For those seeking mountain views, Mount Timpanogos is a significant peak in the area, and you can also find highlights like Big Baldy Summit.
Are there any waterfalls accessible on the trails?
Absolutely! The Battle Creek Falls Trail is specifically known for leading directly to the beautiful Battle Creek Falls, making it a great option for those looking to experience a waterfall.
What do other hikers say about the trails in American Fork?
The trails in American Fork are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 stars from over 11 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from river parkways to forest and canyon paths, and the clear routes that make exploration enjoyable.
Are there longer, more challenging hikes available?
While there are no trails classified as 'difficult' in this guide, several moderate routes offer a good challenge. The Battle Creek Falls loop is 12.2 km, and the Grove Creek Spring via Grove Creek Trail is 9.5 km, both involving significant elevation gain through forested canyon areas.
What is the typical duration for hikes in American Fork?
Hike durations vary widely. Easy trails like the Battle Creek Falls Trail can be completed in under an hour. Moderate routes, such as the Grove Creek Spring via Grove Creek Trail, typically take around 3 to 4 hours, while longer loops can extend to over 4 hours.
Are there any trails along a river or parkway?
Yes, the region features trails along river parkways. The Jordan River Parkway from Willow Park to Olympic Park and the Jordan River Parkway, Inlet Park to Willow Park offer pleasant walks along the river.
What kind of natural environments do the trails pass through?
The trails around American Fork traverse diverse natural environments, including lush forested areas, particularly within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, and scenic canyon landscapes. You'll also find routes that follow river parkways, offering a mix of open and sheltered paths.
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