Easy hikes and walks around Draper

The Bonneville Shoreline Trail via Coyote Hollow Trailhead offers a delightful escape into nature, tracing the ancient contours of Lake Bonneville. You'll hike through natural surfaces dotted with scrub oak and sagebrush, experiencing a dynamic trail that dips into and climbs out of ravines. The highlight is undoubtedly the expansive, sweeping views of the Wasatch Front, Utah Valley, and the Salt Lake Valley that unfold as you progress along the route.

This easy 3.0-mile (4.9 km) hike involves 365 feet (111 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 1 hour and 23 minutes. The Coyote Hollow Trailhead is a popular spot, so plan to arrive early for parking, especially on busy days. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash, and be mindful that the trail can get muddy after rain.

What makes this section of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail particularly interesting is its geological significance, following the distinct benches left behind by the prehistoric Lake Bonneville. It's a multi-use path, connecting to other trails like Ghost Falls, and offers a unique blend of urban proximity with a true sense of wilderness, making it a great choice for a quick, scenic outing.

The Bear Canyon Suspension Bridge loop via Orson Smith & Bonneville Shoreline Trails offers a delightful escape into nature, providing panoramic views of the Salt Lake Valley and the Wasatch Mountains. This easy 2.2-mile (3.5 km) hike, with 447 feet (136 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 5 minutes, making it perfect for a quick outing. You'll navigate initial switchbacks and some steeper sections before reaching the more level Bonneville Shoreline Trail, all leading to the impressive Bear Canyon Suspension Bridge. Expect vibrant wildflowers in spring and stunning fall colors, with the bridge itself providing a unique, slightly

Step onto the Beware of Doug via Deer Ridge Trail and you'll quickly understand why it's gaining popularity; this easy 2.1-mile (3.4 km) hike offers incredible panoramic views of the Salt Lake and Utah Valleys. Winding through gambel oak on a well-maintained singletrack, the route provides frequent scenic overlooks of distant peaks like Mount Timpanogos and Lone Peak. It's a lariat-style trail, starting with a gentle ascent to a loop at the summit, making the 319 feet (97 metres) of elevation gain feel very approachable.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is open from late May through October, offering the best conditions for a pleasant outing. Located in Draper's off-leash dog area, it's a perfect spot to bring your furry friend along for the adventure. Expect to complete this scenic journey in about 59 minutes, and while no permits are needed, arriving earlier in the day can help you find parking more easily at the Maple Hollow Trailhead Park.

This trail is a standout in the Draper City Trail Systems, notable for being the highest-elevation trail in the Corner Canyon and Traverse Mountain areas, often providing views above atmospheric inversions. It's a multi-use path, shared with mountain bikers and trail runners, and connects to a broader network for those seeking longer excursions. The "Far Side" cartoon trail signs add a unique, whimsical touch to your hike.

The View from the Summit Benchmark loop from Deer Ridge Trailhead Parking offers a fantastic, accessible hike with some of the best panoramic views of the Salt Lake Valley. Starting with a gentle climb, the 2.6-mile (4.2 km) route gradually steepens as it follows old roads, leading you through diverse flora and past a small, serene meadow before culminating at the View Benchmark. With 442 feet (135 metres) of elevation gain, this easy trail takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, making it a perfect quick escape for stunning scenery. You might even spot local wildlife like mule deer or rabbits along the way.

To plan your visit, head to the Deer Ridge Trailhead Parking, easily accessible from Deer Ridge Drive. This trail is a great option for those looking for a relatively short and easy hike that delivers big on views, without requiring a full day's commitment. It's particularly enjoyable in spring and early summer when wildflowers are in bloom, but the views are spectacular year-round.

At the summit, you'll find a triangulation marker, the View Benchmark, which signifies this strategic viewpoint. Beyond the main path, keep an eye out for remnants of old mining operations, offering a glimpse into the area's history. This trail is a local favorite for its high-reward vistas and manageable difficulty, making it one of the popular trails for a quick dose of nature and expansive scenery.