Overview

The Lagoon Trail is a great family friendly hike that follows Farmington Creek through a dense forest while skirting along the back of the Lagoon amusement park. While you might hear some screams of delight in the distance don’t expect to have rollercoasters whizzing by here. In addition to the beautiful forest the trail passes by part of the Lagoon Zoo offering views of elk and buffalo along with a multitude of other birds and small animals that call this area home. This hike is perfect for young children and adults of all skill levels. The mostly level paved trail is also suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.

Trailhead

Access the Lagoon Trail from the north or south end. The north trailhead (40.987548,-111.891941) is located on 200 West, just south of Main Street in Farmington. Parking is available in the cul-de-sac where the trail begins.

The south trailhead (40.981132,-111.896405) is located just north of State Street on 400 West. Parking is available at Ezra T. Clark Park.

From this trailhead, the paved trail travels both north and south. To access The Lagoon Trail, travel north to where the trail crosses 400 West and skirts along the Lagoon Campground.

Most people will want to begin the hike at the north trailhead as it offers the best scenery right away. The rest of this trail description will assume travel from north to south.

The Route

From the north trailhead, follow the paved path as it winds through tall stands of trees. There are benches and picnic tables available making this a great place for a lunch break or a family picnic. Along the way, the trail crosses over Farmington Creek on two charming metal bridges.

A little further along, the trail appears to end at a cul-de-sac on 300 North. Walk east on 300 North for about 100 yards and turn right to continue on the Lagoon Trail. There is a large wooden covered bridge over the trail here.

The next section of trail passes by part of the Lagoon Zoo as well as some private horse pastures. There are usually elk and buffalo visible right alongside the trail. Soon after the zoo, the trail skirts the Lagoon Campground before crossing 400 West and ending at Ezra T. Clark Park. If you are up for more, you can continue on the Farmington Creek Trail or return the way you came.

Rules and Regulations

  • Open to foot traffic, bicycles, and horses.
  • Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing allowed in the wintertime.
  • Keep pets on leash and clean up after them.

Special Considerations

This trail is particularly beautiful in the fall when the leaves are changing.

Credits

This trail guide is provided by Backcountry Post.