USU Botanical Center (Kaysville)

easy
year round

The USU Botanical Center in Kaysville is home to a network of family friendly walking trails in a beautiful wetland environment. The botanical center is home to several large ponds that are rich with wildlife and surrounded by tall grasses and beautiful gardens.

This hike is suitable for children and adults of all skill levels.

Trailhead

875 South 50 West
Kaysville, UT

(41.019761,-111.940473)

From I-15, take Exit 328 for 200 North.
Drive east a few blocks on 200 North and turn right onto Main Street.
Turn right onto 50 West and continue one mile to the parking area on the right.
Restrooms are located near the pavilion at the north end of the parking area.

The Hike

The route options at the botanical center are plentiful. You can basically choose a path and just start walking. All but the south pond have trails around their perimeters, making it easy to put together loops and cover more ground. Most of the trails are wide, well-graded gravel paths. Combined distance of all trails is roughly 1.5 miles.

Be sure to walk through Garden View Pavilion at the north end of the parking area where you will find extensive information about the wetlands and the role these ponds play in the larger Great Salt Lake ecosystem. There is also a beautiful 9/11 Memorial near the pavilion. You can find more information on the botanical center on the west side of the ponds at Wetland Discovery Point, the large structure on the north end of the botanical center.

Fishing

Fishing is popular here as well. You can fish from one of the many docks, benches, and shore access points. The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources stocks the ponds with Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, Channel Catfish and Rainbow Trout. Largemouth bass should be voluntarily released to help improve this community fishery. Be sure to check current fishing regulations before heading out.

Rules and Regulations

Park hours are sunrise to sunset.
Open to foot traffic and bicycles only.
No motorized vehicles.
No swimming.
All pets must be on leash.
Clean up after pets.