Discover Layton: History, Water and Nature

Layton combines engaging history, varied water activities and trails through diverse landscapes. Those who choose a holiday apartment or holiday home for their stay can tailor their trip to their own interests: with museums and historic buildings, different swimming and water activities, or paved and unpaved trails. Birdwatching at the Great Salt Lake is another special opportunity to discover around Layton.

History and Events

The Heritage Museum of Layton tells the city’s past in several chapters. The exhibition spans the history of the Indigenous population and the pioneer settlement through the development of local residential neighborhoods, businesses and everyday life. Artifacts, historic photographs and interactive exhibits make this a visit that brings together different aspects of the area’s history.

Another historic stop is the Joseph Hill Cabin. Tours can be arranged on request and may be available free of charge. For outdoor culture, the Edward A. Kenley Centennial Amphitheater is available; it was built in 1995. The venue can accommodate up to 1,700 people and hosts numerous events during the summer season, many of which are free to the public. Those planning their trip during this time of year can therefore consider the amphitheater as a possible cultural highlight without limiting their stay to a single type of event.

Water Activities for Active Days Away

Surf 'n Swim offers a daily lap-swimming program in a swimming area with eight lanes. On Wednesdays, an inflatable WIBIT obstacle course is added for swimmers aged 6 and over. The pool also transforms into a wave experience with eight waves from around the world. These different options allow you to choose between regular swimming, a special activity for children aged six and over, and a playful water experience when planning your trip.

Trails with Different Distance Profiles

Several clearly distinct trails are available for walks and hikes. The Bamberger Trail begins immediately east of I-15 at Gentile Street and follows 0.7 miles of paved trail to Gordon Avenue. The Weaver Lane Trail comprises 1.3 miles of paved trail. The D&RG Trail offers 2.8 miles of paved route, while Kays Creek Parkway consists of 2.5 miles of paved trail as well as a 0.94-mile unpaved trail around Hobbs Reservoir.

Those who prefer a longer unpaved route to a specific natural destination will find a starting point for the Adams Canyon/Bonneville Shoreline Trail at 600 S Eastside Dr. From there, the trail leads 1.9 miles along an unpaved route to a waterfall. The differences in surface, length and destination help you adapt your day’s plans to your preferred type of activity. When looking for accommodation in Layton, you can therefore first decide whether short paved trails, a longer route, or a combination of nature and cultural experiences should take priority.

Wetlands and Birdwatching at the Great Salt Lake

The Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve encompasses 4,400 acres of wetland and upland habitats along the eastern edge of the Great Salt Lake. The visitor center features an outdoor pavilion, a 30-foot-high observation tower and an approximately one-mile-long boardwalk through an area offering good birdwatching opportunities. The boardwalk and observation tower provide year-round opportunities to observe, among others, American avocets, black-necked stilts, white-faced ibises and numerous waterbirds.

Layton is therefore suitable for a variety of days away: you can combine historic exhibitions and a potentially free guided tour with water activities or nature observation. For further comparison of destinations, you can also view Woods Cross, Clearfield and Bountiful.

For the higher-level travel overview: Davis.