Ghost Falls Trail Head: Draper’s Scenic Waterfall Gateway

Ghost Falls Trail Head, located just outside Draper, Utah, offers a peaceful start to a gentle hike amid the Wasatch foothills. This trailhead is a favorite for families and outdoor lovers seeking a short outing with rewarding natural beauty. The highlight is the waterfall itself, a seasonal cascade that flows most vigorously in spring when snowmelt fills the streams. With multiple smaller tributaries weaving through the Canyon Rim Regional Park area, visitors find a refreshing variety of sights on this approachable route.

The trail passes under a canopy of native trees and opens to quiet meadows that bloom in wildflowers come springtime. This setting provides an ideal backdrop to enjoy the waterfall’s tranquil sound and the surrounding scenic views of the nearby mountain range. Ghost Falls Trail Head offers options for both hikers and mountain bikers, with the Phantom Foot Path favored by walkers wanting to avoid bike traffic.

The area holds historic interest as well; early explorers and settlers traveled these rugged hills while charting out Utah’s wild lands. Today, it’s a calm retreat that blends natural charm with easy access from Draper and Salt Lake City. The dirt roads leading to the trailhead can be a bit rough, so vehicles with higher clearance are recommended. Visitors should bring sufficient water and snacks, since no facilities are available on-site.

From families with young children to avid mountain bikers, Ghost Falls Trail Head rewards visitors with a serene waterfall view, diverse terrain, and a quiet spot to enjoy Utah’s outdoors close to the city. It’s a distinctive natural area where both quiet moments and active adventures can be found.