Adams Canyon hike offers adventure and waterfall reward
Jul 10, 2026 04:08PM ● By Kerry Angelbuer
Enjoy the 40-foot waterfall at the end of the Adams Canyon hike. Photo by Kerry Angelbuer
One of the most popular hikes in Davis County is Adams Canyon with a trailhead right off of Highway 89 in the Kaysville/Layton area. The trailhead is only about a 15 minute drive from a good portion of Davis County and features restrooms and water fill-up sites. Located in the Uintah-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, the trail winds through the North Fork of Holmes Creek. The opening trail has some switchbacks leading up a sandy mountain overrun with lizards and desert flowers. It is exposed to the sun so sunscreen is advised. After this ascent hikers can enjoy sweeping views of Farmington Bay and Antelope Island. Next, the trail meanders down a bit to a crossroads with the main trail continuing on toward the Upper Falls, while those in for a much shorter adventure can turn to the right and follow the side trail down to the Lower Falls.
The Lower Falls are only 1 mile there and back with only a little over 300 feet gain in elevation. It is rated moderately hard though because of the ups and downs and the need for a little rock scrambling. It can be easy to miss the turn off while hiking up the main trail, so consult a map. It is very popular from April to October, especially as a hiking adventure with a cool mountain pool fed by a vigorous waterfall reward.
Further along the trail, a bridge will appear to the right which allows hikers to veer off on the Bonneville Shoreline Trail which continues all the way to the Bountiful Temple. Staying on the main trail allows hikers to continue on the upper falls following the river through pines and boulders in a shadier, cooler part of the hike. Less than two miles from the trailhead to the 40-foot waterfall at the end of the trail can feel longer as parts of the trail are steep and rocky. Occasionally hikers may feel more like a rock climber. Lots of smaller falls, creek views and even a cave/tunnel/waterfall playground to explore. Shoes that can get wet would be ideal. The falls have a net gain of 1,400 feet with some up and down making the ups seem endless. All the struggles are worth it as you make it to the majestic waterfall and surrounding cliffs at the end. Hiking beyond this point is prohibited due to slippery, steep conditions. Although an occasional rattlesnake or a prickly cacti might seem like the obvious dangers, bringing enough water may be more important. Snowshoes or micro spikes are recommended in the winter. Dogs are allowed on leashes.
