Adams Canyon is a favorite day hike in East Layton. The trailhead is located at about 550 North Eastside Road which is just east of the water tank on Oak Hills Drive. Eastside is a frontage road off Highway 89 and can be accessed from 1200 North. There is parking off the road or in a little dirt area.
The first section of the trail rises 500 feet on a series of switchbacks taking it up to meet the Bonneville Shoreline Trail. The view of the valley as you travel is fantastic! At the junction, bikers turn off onto the Shoreline Trail. At this point you follow the path to Adams Canyon. The canyon is named after Elias Adams, a pioneer who settled and built a sawmill at the mouth of the canyon.
There is shade once you enter the canyon. Two of the favorite landmarks along the way are “Refrigerator Rock” and the “Giant Evergreen Tree”. A few places along the trail are washed out and rugged rock outcropping gives the trail its designation of being “moderately strenuous or difficult”.
Much of the trail follows the North Fork of Holmes Creek. Samuel Holmes was a trapper from 1849. There are two segments of the trail where you will need to cross Holmes Creek. You should plan on getting your feet wet. For safety reasons, hikers are encouraged not to enter the creek if the water is too high.
The trail takes you to a glorious 40 foot waterfall. It’s a great reward for your efforts. Take time to bask in the spray or even wade in the pool before heading back down the canyon. Hikers are warned not to drink the water at the falls or from the creek. You should bring plenty of water and you might enjoy having a light snack as you rest by the falls.
The trail continues above the waterfall for about 1/2 mile. Organized rescues have occurred in this upper section because it’s more dangerous that the rest of the trail. Most people only go to the falls and back.
The Adams Canyon Trail is not well marked and there are sections where people occasionally wander off and lose the path. It’s best to bring someone who’s done it before or study and carry a hiking map or GPS. Round trip to and from the falls is over 3.5 miles and rises in elevation about 1220 feet. Fast hikers can do it in less than 2 hours. For an average hike, plan on 3-4 hours.
Dogs are allowed but they must be kept on a leash at all times. There are occasional rattlers that slither off the path and you don’t want your dog to chase them. The sand on the switchbacks can burn the feet of dogs if you hike in the heat of the day.
There are no restrooms. There are 3 primitive (non-sanctioned by the Forest Service) camping places along the way. Fire restrictions may apply in dry seasons. During the heat of the summer, it’s best to hike in the cooler hours of the day. Adams Canyon Trail is just one of the East Layton treasures you can find on The Sears Team East Layton Blog.
The Sears Team would love to hear about your hiking adventures in Adams Canyon.
If you wish to purchase a home in East Layton, or have a house that you wish to sell, The Sears Team is there to help you every step of the way.