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Looking for an opportunity to get out of the house? Why not go for a hike?
"Hiking is a great activity. It's something you can do with your family," said Michelle Best, Live Well director at Utah Valley Regional Medical Center.
Utah is loaded with opportunities to go outside. Just a quick drive up nearly any canyon and you're bound to run into a trail head, beckoning to be explored.
"[Experts have] shown that being out in nature can have a really significant impact on reducing your risk of depression and anxiety," Best said.
Located in the foothills of Centerville, Deuel Creek Canyon offers a family friendly hike with an array of small waterfalls, footbridges and plenty of shade on hot summer days. The trail is easy to follow with a few steep spots you'll want to help small children through.
About a half mile up, you'll find a waterfall, perfect for cooling off and a great spot to relax, Best said. "A lot of times people are surprised by how good they feel afterwards."
For an extra reward, hike a quarter mile beyond the waterfall to find a rope swing. Made to entertain both big and little children, this hike will leave your little explorers with plenty to talk about on the way home.
"Get off the couch and go for a hike," Best said.
Click here to find Intermountain Healthcare's list of more than 200 hikes around the state.
