Home / Vacations Ideas / Outdoor Adventures / Donut Falls: A Family-Friendly Hike Near Salt Lake City, Utah
Water flowing through a donut shape rock formation in Donut Fall utah

Donut Falls: A Family-Friendly Hike Near Salt Lake City, Utah

If you are close to Salt Lake City, Utah, you need to check out GoWhee families’ favorite hiking trail in the Big Cottonwood Canyon Road. The Donut Falls Trail is a 2-3 hours long hike great for spring, summer, and fall. Parents report sightseeing of animals and educational opportunities for little ones.

What Makes the Donut Fall Trail So Special?

Low effort, high reward, just the way kids like it! The Donut Falls Trail is a 1.5-mile round-trip with a gentle incline trail. It follows clear path through a wooded canyon and ends at the unique waterfall with a circular hole in a rock formation.

The final section of the trail, leading to the waterfall itself, involves a bit of loose rocks and is not stroller accessible, but families with children aged 4 and up say that it is manageable.

Water fall view from the inside of the cave in Donut fall trail Utah

Why Parents Recommend The Trail?

Parents appreciate that the trail is shaded and short distance. It is also a great spot in the heat of summer since you can take a swim at the end. Kids love it for the name “donut fall,” which keeps the intrigue going. We recommend treating them to a donut afterward for the full experience!

What you should Know before you go

  • The parking lot fills up quickly, so we recommend arriving early during high season and on the weekends.
  • The trail is usually accessible from spring through fall, but check on snowmelt and weather conditions before arrival.
  • You can use your jogging strollers for the first part of the hike, but the last 0.2 miles requires climbing over rocks.
  • Also heads up, some part have uneven terrain that might be tough for toddlers.
Signage of the trail path in Donut fall trail utah

Itinerary Idea With Kids

Here is an idea of itinerary for a day trip near Salt Lake City with kids:

  • Morning: Start Your Day at Donut Falls Trail for the hike. And snack on a donut half way through.

  • Lunch: Picnic at Silver Lake Boardwalk. Location: About 15 minutes from Donut Falls.

Tip: Pack a blanket and let the kids unwind while watching the lake.

  • Afternoon: Visit the Brighton Nature Center (Seasonal)

The Brighton Nature Center is a small learning space often run by volunteers which features local nature displays that can help children connect their morning hike with educational components.

  • Snack: Sweet Treat Stop at Chips Cookies for one of the best chocolate chip cookies in the area.
  • Where to stay? GoWhee families recommend the Cliff Lodge and Spa. Find other hotels nearby recommended by parents.

The Family Travel Playbook

All the insider’s tips the travel industry doesn’t want you to know, to spend less money, pack better, stay safe, keep kids happy, reduce stress and more... so you can enjoy your vacation too!
FREE

FAQ

Is the trail at Donut Falls wheelchair accessible?

While the beginning of the trail is relatively flat, the final stretch involves uneven terrain and a rocky climb near the waterfall, making it unsuitable for wheelchairs.

What should I pack?

If you plan on climbing closer to the actual falls (to see the “donut” rock formation), wear sturdy shoes with good grip since the rocks is slippery. We recommend to bring a change of clothes for the kids who will probably play in the water.

What is the best time to visit the Donut Falls with kids?

Hike in the morning, and weekdays to avoid crowds and the heat.

Can little kids hike to the donut waterfall?

Yes! Many families hike the Donut Falls trail with little kids. If they can’t handle the rock climbing part, you can stop at the overlook instead. School-aged kids and adventurous younger ones (with adult support) may enjoy the short climb for a better view and you can bring a child carrier for the very little ones.

Does the Donut Falls trail have public toilets?

There are port-a-potties available at the beginning of the trail, but they don’t have water.

Latest Posts

Pirate ship playground structure at Diana memorial playground
The Diana Memorial Pirate Ship Playground A Gem in London

Plan your visit to the Pirate Ship Playground at the Diana Memorial Playground, one of Kensington Gardens’ top family attractions. Explore play sculptures, a sensory trail, and the iconic wooden pirate ship.Plan your visit to the Pirate Ship Playground at the Diana Memorial Playground, one of Kensington Gardens’ top family attractions. Explore play sculptures, a sensory trail, and the iconic wooden pirate ship.

Read More »

Preview

“All the insiders’ tips the travel industry doesn’t want you to know!”

"Have you ever heard of unpublished hotel rates? Unpublished hotel rates are rates you can't find easily when searching Google..."