Cascade Springs

One of our favorite walks (it's a stretch to call it a "hike") is Cascade Springs. In order to get to this hike, drive up American Fork Canyon all the way to the top. This road eventually goes down into Provo Canyon through Sundance, so you can access Cascade Springs from Provo Canyon, too. At the top of AF Canyon, you'll see a sign that says "Cascade Springs, left, 7 miles."

It's a pretty drive, and the road ends right at Cascade Springs. There is a real bathroom (running water and a sink), but you have to pack all trash out and you may not eat at the springs. Boardwalks let you walk right out over the springs. We spied a family of ducks (they got away before we got a picture), several fish (fishing is forbidden), tons of butterflies (they are on our list of things to learn about), and a few deer on the drive.

The spring is beautiful and there are several bridges and waterfalls. Hold onto little ones as there is no railing on the boardwalk. You can hike any of several loops, none of which is even a half mile long. This hike is appropriate for pretty much anyone. It would be a little rough with a stroller, but definitely possible.

We also took a picnic and ate on the way up at one of the many picnic sites in AF Canyon. You do have to pay to drive in AF Canyon--it's $6/car for a three day pass.

This map courtesy of Utah Geological Survey.