Discover Trails in Davis: The Grotto Trail

by Discover Davis

The Grotto in Hornet Canyon is a 2.3-mile out-and-back trail in Farmington that leads to a beautiful grotto of small waterfalls and dripping water.

We love this moderately challenging trail in Farmington. It is close to Station Park for a delicious post-hike meal and has low enough mileage but enough elevation gain to be a quick and fun challenge with a big payoff at the end.

Cool Fact

Grottoes are caves, typically with water features, and often were considered dwelling places of the divinities.

Even though this ‘grotto’ isn’t a cave, we can see where the inspiration for its namesake came from. The Grotto trail is short in terms of mileage but still includes a steep climb that is narrow and overgrown in spots – with that being said, we don’t think this is a very family-friendly trail if you have younger children.

Trail Information

  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Distance: 2.3-miles
  • Elevation Gain: 580 feet
  • Time: 1.0 – 1.5 hrs
  • Trail Type: Dirt, out-and-back
  • Fees: None
  • Dogs: Allowed
  • Parking: No parking lot
  • Restroom: None
  • Trailhead Coordinates: 40.977161, -111.877742

There is no designated parking lot and the trailhead coordinates will take you to a residential cul-de-sac with limited parking availability. Please be respectful of noise and parking to minimize any disturbance to residents. There is another starting point you can take that is near the Davis Creek and Triumph trailheads with a dirt parking lot and the same mileage.

Trail PSA

If there is a fork in the trail, look for debris on either path, that is usually an indicator that a trail crew is guiding you to take the other path – here, keep right to stay on the correct path.


This route is steep and narrow, go prepared.
You’ll see occasional trail signs to help direct you – be cautious, this is a non-USFS trail.

Check out the links below for directions, reviews on AllTrails, wildlife safety, and responsible hiking. Tag us in your photos at @discoverdavis, we love to see how you #playindavis!


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More Info

Visit AllTrails for a detailed trail map and reviews on The Grotto.

AllTrails