Finding a beautiful trail that leads to a great destination is key to making a hike enjoyable. The Wind Caves Trail does just that. The trailhead is located above Cache Valley in Logan Canyon and leads to stunning views of natural arches and caves overlooking the valley. The hike is just under 4 miles long and is surrounded by wild flowers and large trees that offer just enough shade to stave away the heat.
As we began hiking the trail the women chatted with one another about their hobbies, families, careers, and the people they love. Having just met one another at the trail head they were curious about each other’s lives. Some of them had come with a friend or sister but most of them had come alone. The fear of not knowing if they would find someone to connect with quickly dissipated. All of the women instantly opened their hearts to one another and began to find a common ground and connected.
Along the trail there were portions that were a bit more difficult as it was narrow with a cliff on each side. For those women who had come without much hiking experience beforehand they put their best foot forward and kept hiking even though they worried about their ability to reach the end of the trail. They pushed themselves physically and were delighted to see the view at the top of the climb.
There is something remarkable that happens to us when we force ourselves to do hard things. Women had come not knowing if they would make a friend or be able to endure the hike. Having to face both of those two fears in the same moment brought about an inner strength that connected them. Within a mile up the trail new friendships had been made and courage was found.
At the top of the trail we reached the wind caves. We climbed the arches, examined the rock formations, and explored the caves as we freed our minds of the worries of the world. It was exhilarating to stand atop the arch with narrow rock below our feet. We then relaxed and enjoyed the spectacular vistas. Being in nature had a powerful impact on our minds as we realized how big the Earth really is and truly see the beauty of the trees, the flowers, the blue sky, and most importantly the people we experienced it all with.
Finding a beautiful trail that leads to a great destination is key to making a hike enjoyable. The Wind Caves Trail does just that. The trailhead is located above Cache Valley in Logan Canyon and leads to stunning views of natural arches and caves overlooking the valley. The hike is just under 4 miles long and is surrounded by wild flowers and large trees that offer just enough shade to stave away the heat.
As we began hiking the trail the women chatted with one another about their hobbies, families, careers, and the people they love. Having just met one another at the trail head they were curious about each other’s lives. Some of them had come with a friend or sister but most of them had come alone. The fear of not knowing if they would find someone to connect with quickly dissipated. All of the women instantly opened their hearts to one another and began to find a common ground and connected.
Along the trail there were portions that were a bit more difficult as it was narrow with a cliff on each side. For those women who had come without much hiking experience beforehand they put their best foot forward and kept hiking even though they worried about their ability to reach the end of the trail. They pushed themselves physically and were delighted to see the view at the top of the climb.
There is something remarkable that happens to us when we force ourselves to do hard things. Women had come not knowing if they would make a friend or be able to endure the hike. Having to face both of those two fears in the same moment brought about an inner strength that connected them. Within a mile up the trail new friendships had been made and courage was found.
At the top of the trail we reached the wind caves. We climbed the arches, examined the rock formations, and explored the caves as we freed our minds of the worries of the world. It was exhilarating to stand atop the arch with narrow rock below our feet. We then relaxed and enjoyed the spectacular vistas. Being in nature had a powerful impact on our minds as we realized how big the Earth really is and truly see the beauty of the trees, the flowers, the blue sky, and most importantly the people we experienced it all with.
Taking kids canyoneering is not for the faint of heart or the inexperienced. We have been canyoneering for years and now that our youngest is 3 we felt comfortable going as a family. Each kid had a children’s harness and the youngest two rappelled with my husband or myself each time.
Yankee Doodle Canyon is located in Leeds, Utah and is a slot canyon that most people overlook. It involves three moderate sized rappels and several small rappels. The canyon is not marked at all. If you plan to go make sure you are properly prepared. Study the area, download maps, bring a location device and all the proper gear.
I loved experiencing this with my kids. It was our first canyon as a family and it’s safe to say we are hooked.
1-Dominguez Hill/Escalante Cross: 1.7 mile out and back trail in Spanish Fork, Utah. Rated as easy and ends at the cross with beautiful views of the valley. Trail has a couple of steep downhill parts that are rocky and can be slippery for young feet. I held my 3 year old’s hand and we didn’t have any problems.
Dominguez Hill: Spanish Fork, Utah
2- Dripping Rock: 0.7 mile out and back hike located in Spanish Fork, Utah. Rated as easy and paved the entire way. Scramble down to the stream and find the dripping rock. Let the kids play in the stream and enjoy.
Dripping Rock: Spanish Fork, Utah
3- Rocky Mouth Falls: 0.7 mile out and back hike located in Sandy, Utah. Rated as easy and ends in a waterfall which kids love. There is a small parking lot at the trailhead so I recommend going during the week and not on the weekend to ensure you get a parking spot. The stairs at the beginning look intimidating but they are short. After crossing through a neighborhood you are on the dirt trail that will take you to the waterfall. If you want more hiking after reaching the waterfall you can take the switchbacks up the south side and go to the top for great views. Otherwise, enjoy the waterfall and head back down. Easy and kid friendly.
Rocky Mouth Falls: Sandy, Utah
4- Donut Falls: 3 mile out and back hike located in Big Cottonwood Canyon. Rated as easy and often crowded, pick your time wisely. I would not recommend going on a Saturday. The trail is flat and wide and kid friendly. Kids can play in the stream at the waterfall or if you are brave you can venture up the rocks to see the waterfall up close. I had my kids stay below with a friend while I went and explored the falls up close.
Donut Falls: Big Cottonwood Canyon, Utah
5- Maple Canyon to Whiting Campground: 2.4 mile out and back hike located in Mapleton, Utah. Rated as easy and mostly shaded. This is also a mountain biking and horse riding trail so be aware. We haven’t seen anyone else on the trail while hiking but my kids would love to see a horse out for a ride.
