Lisa Falls in Little Cottonwood Canyon is a short, family friendly hike. Beautiful waterfall. Rock climbing and bouldering.
Lisa Falls sits approximately 0.22 miles from Little Cottonwood Canyon Road. While the trail is not long or particularly steep, there are some large step ups that could be difficult for either the very old or very young. Nonetheless, this is a great option for a family outing.
Once you arrive at the falls, you'll find yourself in a large granite boulder quarry, which provides easy entertainment for the littleish ones. If you're feeling a little bit more adventurous, you can scramble up the left side of the falls to the upper falls, and a small granite slot-like canyon that the falls flow from. The views of LCC from the top of the falls are beautiful, especially at sunset. If you're lucky, you may even spot a mountain goat or two.
I have seen families rock climbing both to the left and right of the falls. The geography at the falls makes it fairly easy to find an anchor above for climbing. Routes are relatively easy, and I've seen small children climbing both sides.
Lisa Falls makes for a great destination if you are short on time or have little ones that would enjoy the boulders and playing in the water. If you have more time, plan to hike a couple of different trails within the canyon. There are numerous trails for all skill levels.
Water flow slows in the fall, so if you want to see the falls at its peak, go during the spring or early summer.
Getting There:
From Salt Lake City or from Provo, take I-15 to the 9000 S exit (Exit 295). Turn east onto 9000 S (UT-209) and follow it for 7.2 miles to the mouth of Little Cottonwood Canyon. 9000 S will become 9400 S and then to 9600 S as you drive to the mouth of Little Cottonwood Canyon. You will come to a junction at the mouth of the canyon, turn right (east), and continue up the canyon. Drive up the canyon Road for 2.7 miles. You’ll see a small parking area on the right side of the road, followed by a small parking area on the left side of the road. Park on the left side of the road if possible. The trail is unmarked, but begins from this parking area on the left.