Thousands hike to Coldwater Canyon flag honoring fallen North Ogden mayor

Hikers carry an American flag on a 5-mile trek to a mountaintop in the memory of former North Ogden Mayor Brent Taylor

Mayor Taylor, who died in 2018 while serving in Afghanistan, had hiked the Coldwater Canyon trail annually with his family. On Memorial Day 2023, thousands made the pilgrimage in his memory.

NORTH OGDEN, Utah — Thousands of people hiked to a mountaintop in North Ogden on Memorial Day to honor the legacy of former Mayor Brent Taylor, who was killed in action in Afghanistan in 2018.

The hikers carried an American flag on the 5-mile trek to the summit of Coldwater Canyon. Taylor had hiked the trail annually with his family, and the hike has become a way to honor his memory and his service to the community.

Among the hikers was Taylor's widow, Jennie Taylor, and their seven children. Jennie Taylor said she was grateful for the outpouring of support from the community.

"It's so meaningful to see so many people come out here to honor Brent," she said. "It shows how much he meant to this community, and it's a reminder of the sacrifice he made for our country."

Taylor was a Green Beret who was deployed to Afghanistan in 2018. He was killed in action on November 3, 2018, while leading a raid on a Taliban compound.

Taylor was a beloved figure in North Ogden, where he served as mayor from 2013 to 2017. He was known for his dedication to the community and his love of the outdoors.

The hike to Coldwater Canyon is a challenging one, but the hikers said it was worth it to honor Taylor's memory.

"It's a tough hike, but it's nothing compared to what Brent went through," said hiker Mike Johnson. "This is a small way to show our appreciation for his service."

The hike ended at a flagpole at the summit of Coldwater Canyon. The hikers gathered around the flagpole and sang the national anthem. They then took turns sharing their memories of Taylor.

"Brent was a great man who loved his family, his community, and his country," said hiker John Smith. "He will never be forgotten."

The hike to Coldwater Canyon is a reminder of the sacrifice that Taylor and other service members have made for our country. It is also a reminder of the importance of community and the power of love.