The best city hikes and walks in Mount Timpanogos Wilderness

The Murdock Canal Trail near Lindon View Park offers a pleasant, easy escape onto a multi-use paved path that follows the historic, now-enclosed Murdock Canal. This 3.9-mile (6.2 km) loop is rated easy, with a minimal 77 feet (23 metres) of elevation gain, and takes about 1 hour and 35 minutes to complete. You'll enjoy open vistas of the surrounding Utah Valley, including distant views of Mount Timpanogos, as you pass through quiet suburban and agricultural landscapes. It's a great option for a leisurely walk, a family outing, or anyone looking for a flat, accessible route.

Lindon View Park provides a convenient starting point with well-maintained restrooms, water fountains, and picnic areas, making it easy to plan your visit. The trail is popular for various activities and is accessible year-round, even being plowed in winter. If you're heading out during warmer seasons, remember to bring plenty of water, as the route offers limited shade, and consider an early morning or late afternoon start to beat the heat.

This section of the Murdock Canal Trail is part of the extensive Golden Spoke network, connecting to other community trails and offering a glimpse into Utah County's agricultural past, as it's built over a crucial irrigation canal. It's a popular spot for locals, known for its accessibility and the chance to spot wildlife like deer and various bird species. For those seeking hiking trails near Lindon View Park, this loop provides a gentle, family-friendly experience.

The Murdock Canal Trail offers a distinctive hiking experience, following the path of an enclosed historic canal through Utah County. You'll traverse a mostly paved surface, enjoying expansive views of Mount Timpanogos and occasional glimpses of Utah Lake, with native sagebrush and juniper lining the route. While generally gentle, the trail includes a notable steeper section near Lehi, adding a varied challenge to its 13.4-mile (21.5 km) length.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is well-equipped with amenities. You'll find trailheads offering restrooms, running water, and picnic tables roughly every three miles, making it easy to plan stops. The route is open year-round, even plowed in winter, and its wide underpasses ensure continuous access beneath busy roads, making it a convenient option for a 5-hour and 27-minute outing.

This trail is a significant part of the "Golden Spoke" network, connecting to other major pathways like the Jordan River Parkway Trail. Its unique history, built atop the now-enclosed Murdock Canal, adds an interesting layer to your hike. Despite its difficult rating, the minimal 159 feet (49 metres) of elevation gain makes it more of an endurance test than a steep climb, suitable for a long, accessible day out.

The Murdock Canal Trail loop from Pleasant Grove offers a surprisingly scenic escape, despite its suburban surroundings. This easy 3.7-mile (5.9 km) hike, with a gentle 438 feet (133 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes to complete. You'll traverse a smooth, paved path, enjoying open views of the valley and distant Mount Timpanogos, often feeling more like a nature walk than a city trail.

Accessing the trail is convenient, with numerous trailheads providing parking, restrooms, and water, making it an ideal choice for a spontaneous outing. Since it's a popular spot, consider an early morning visit to enjoy a quieter experience. The trail is suitable for year-round use, offering a reliable option for getting outdoors in most seasons.

This section of the Murdock Canal Trail is part of a larger network, built over an enclosed historic irrigation canal. It connects several cities and is a key component of the ambitious "Golden Spoke" trail system, aiming to link over 100 miles of trails across Utah. The community actively embraces the trail, with residents sometimes planting wildflowers and leaving encouraging chalk messages, adding a personal touch to your journey.

The Pleasant Grove Ditch Trail offers a delightful, shaded escape right within Cedar Hills, Utah. This paved path winds through a surprisingly secluded, forest-like environment, despite being surrounded by residential areas. You'll enjoy the sound of birds and wind through the leaves, with occasional views of the surrounding mountains, making it feel like a true getaway.

This easy 1.1-mile (1.7 km) route with only 78 feet (24 metres) of elevation gain is perfect for a quick 27-minute outing. It's highly accessible, suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, and welcomes leashed dogs, making it a fantastic option for families or anyone seeking a gentle, paved walk. Parking is generally straightforward, and the trail can be enjoyed in both directions.

What truly sets this trail apart is its unique ability to provide a tranquil, natural-feeling experience in an urban setting. It's a multi-use path popular for walking, running, and biking, offering a convenient and pleasant outdoor activity without having to leave the city. It's an ideal choice for beginners or those looking for a peaceful, low-effort stroll.

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.