Hit the trails for family fun

One of the perks of living along the Wasatch Front is the easy access to our mountains and a multitude of trails and hikes.

We've compiled a list of some of our favorites. They range from hikes that children as young as age 2 or 3 could walk, to some that are more appropriate for teenagers.

JORDAN RIVER PARKWAY

Description: Grab your bikes or a picnic lunch, and explore the scenic trails of the Parkway. There are several miles of paved paths and various parks with playground equipment and rest rooms.

Location: Check online for a map of trailheads.

Information: www.parks.slco.org/html/jordan.html

ALBION BASIN

Description: If you're adventurous, ride your bike here from the base of the Alta Ski Area. If not, you can drive the dirt road up and experience this beautiful mountain area. There are camping areas, and colorful wildflowers come out in late July and early August.

Location: At the top of Little Cottonwood Canyon.

Information: www.utah.com/campground/amenities2158.htm

LEGACY NATURE PRESERVE AND TRAIL

Description: Come see the 2,225-acre Legacy Nature Preserve, which was built to preserve some of the Great Salt Lake wetlands. There is a 14-mile trail that runs adjacent to the preserve and the newly-built Legacy Parkway, and you can walk, ride your bike, or go horseback riding.

Location: There are at least seven trailheads from Farmington to North Salt Lake.

Information: www.udot.utah.gov. Click on the link that says "public" and then click on the link to the preserve and trail.

DOG LAKE

Description: This is a long, but easy hike where you can experience parts of the Mount Olympus Wilderness Area. You'll hike through forest areas and may also spot a moose. It is about five miles, round trip.

Location: About eight miles up Big Cottonwood Canyon on the north side of the road.

Information: www.go-utah.com/Dog-Lake-from-Butler-Fork

DONUT FALLS

Description: This is one of the most popular hikes along the Wasatch Front for families. It's less than a mile long and has a mild elevation gain. Once you reach the falls, children may need help crossing a stream to view the famous "donut" hole that the falls go through.

Location: The turn-off to the falls is about 9 miles up Big Cottonwood Canyon. You will need to drive through private property and the Jordan Pines picnic area to get to the trailhead

Information: www.utahoutdooractivities.com/doughnutfalls.html

CECRET LAKE

Description: The distance to this lake is less than a mile, but it may be a steep climb for some. No swimming is allowed in the lake, but the views are beautiful.

Location: Trailhead is on the west side of the Cecret Lake Campground at the top of Little Cottonwood Canyon.

Information: www.utahoutdooractivities.com/cecretlake.html

CASCADE SPRINGS