Kid-Friendly Hikes in Northern Utah

There’s nothing quite like a beautiful hike with your family — especially in a picturesque place like Park City — but not all hikes are kid-friendly hikes. Don’t worry, though: We’ve got a few hiking options around Park City that both you and the kids will absolutely love. So pack your snacks, load up the car, and come on this tour with us through some of Park City’s best kid-friendly hikes.

Bloods Lake, Guardsman Pass 

Don’t let the scary name fool you, the Bloods Lake Trail is excellent for kids who have at least a little hiking experience. Located a few miles from Park City’s Main Street, this hike begins at Guardsman Pass — a hub for multiple popular hiking spots. The 2.8-mile round trip trail is right next to a 10,000-foot-tall mountain, and takes you around the aforementioned lake. It’s absolutely gorgeous, and even swimmable in the summer months. (There’s a rope swing!) Bloods Lake is a popular spot for hikers, walkers, and mountain bikers, so be prepared for a little company. 

McPolin Nature Trail 

If you have small children, then McPolin Nature Trail is the perfect introduction to hiking. It’s short, around a mile round trip, and you and the kids will love to see the iconic McPolin Barn up close. The barn even has bathrooms, which is super convenient for families. There are also lots of animals to see along this secluded trail, such as mule deer and sage grouse. The trail has multiple shaded benches along the way for when you and the kids need a snack break. And if the kids want to hike a little more, the area has some additional connected trails. When it comes to kid-friendly hikes, it doesn’t get much better than this. 

Run-A-Muk 

The name says it all. At Run-A-Muk, the kids (and dogs) can roam free. It’s one of Park City’s best off-leash areas for your pet: 43 acres of fenced-in field that are all pet-friendly. The trail is only 2 miles round trip, making it a great beginner hike for children. As a bonus, it’s also along the drive to the Utah Olympic Park, where numerous winter Olympians train.  

Gambel Oak Loop 

Get ready for gorgeous views! Gambel Oak Loop starts right in the center of town, and overlooks Main Street, Deer Valley, and Prospector. This mostly flat trail wraps around Masonic Hill and April Mountain, amidst aspen-covered groves and oak-filled hillsides. We think you and the kids will love all the viewpoints along the trail. This one is ideal for children with a few hikes under their belt, as it’s 4.5 miles round trip with a 700-foot elevation gain.  

Big Cottonwood Canyon 

If you and your family want to venture outside Park City, head over Guardsman Pass into Big Cottonwood Canyon. This canyon has numerous kid-friendly hikes like Silver Lake and Donut Falls. If you go slightly farther into the adjacent Little Cottonwood Canyon, explore Cecret Lake, a simple hike with truly rewarding views, no matter the time of year. 

Find More Fun for Your Family 

From kid-friendly hikes and beyond, Park City is truly a great place to raise a family. And at Shoreline Park City, you’ll find beautifully designed homes that are near so many of these family-focused activities. Our communities utilize green construction and upscale amenities to help you and your family live your best lives.  

For a virtual tour of our spacious yet cozy Shoreline homes, contact us at shorelineparkcity.com.