There’s nothing quite like escaping into nature on a hiking trail. And, it’s even better when the trail is easy, kid-friendly, and absolutely stunning. That’s exactly what you will find on the Granite Flume Trail, located in Big Cottonwood Canyon in Utah. This is one trail where the views will leave you speechless and you don’t have to put in a lot of effort to enjoy them. In fact, you may be surprised by just how easy this hike can be and the beauty of Mother Nature’s creations that surround you.
The Granite Flume is actually a wooden flume that was built in the late 1800s at the mouth of Big Cottonwood Canyon. This incredible structure was more than five feet wide and traveled approximately 1.5 miles in the canyon.
Carina Dillon/AllTrails Unfortunately, today, there is not much left of this structure, but you can still get a glimpse as you hike along the Granite Flume Trail.
This is a 1.2-mile trail that is rated easy. The trail is relatively flat with just a few areas of loose rock that you’ll want to watch out for as you go on your journey.
Melinda Guy/AllTrails You’ll find the trailhead approximately four miles up Big Cottonwood Canyon, near the Birches Picnic Area.
This is one hike that you’ll want to bring your entire family along. The trail is well maintained and well trafficked.
Melissa McNay/AllTrails In fact, if you plan to tackle this trail on the weekends, holidays, or other busy times, we recommend you arrive early as parking is limited and can be difficult.
As you hike, you’ll come across areas with cement on the trail. Watch your feet and think about the structure that once was.
Cody Dees/AllTrails
But, it isn’t the flume that will leave you mesmerized … it’s the views.
Prestin Henze/AllTrails
As you hike, you’ll capture views of the canyon, road, and sky.
Isaac Moore/AllTrails
At some small overlooks, you can see miles away. You may almost feel like you’ve stepped into a painting — the beauty surrounding you is breathtaking!
Joe Santori/AllTrails
While this kid-friendly hike should be explored any time of the year, we strongly recommend you visit in the fall. The colors this time of year are jaw-dropping.
Maddie H/AllTrails
Don’t be surprised if you just want to sit and stare. You won’t be the only one who does!
Camden Charlesworth/AllTrails
Have you ever hiked the Granite Flume Trail near Salt Lake City, Utah? What did you think of this trail? What are your favorite family-friendly trails in Utah? Let us know in the comments!
Carina Dillon/AllTrails
Unfortunately, today, there is not much left of this structure, but you can still get a glimpse as you hike along the Granite Flume Trail.
Melinda Guy/AllTrails
You’ll find the trailhead approximately four miles up Big Cottonwood Canyon, near the Birches Picnic Area.
Melissa McNay/AllTrails
In fact, if you plan to tackle this trail on the weekends, holidays, or other busy times, we recommend you arrive early as parking is limited and can be difficult.
Cody Dees/AllTrails
Prestin Henze/AllTrails
Isaac Moore/AllTrails
Joe Santori/AllTrails
Maddie H/AllTrails
Camden Charlesworth/AllTrails
If you are searching for hiking trails with incredible payoffs, check out our list. You’ll want to add each trail to your bucket list.
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Address: Granite Flume, Utah 84121, USA
