Where to Hike near Salt Lake City
Thursday 1st August 2024
Salt Lake City is a hiker’s paradise, offering stunning mountain landscapes just a short drive away. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a casual nature lover, there’s a trail to suit every level. From the majestic peaks of the Wasatch Range to the serene beauty of the Great Salt Lake, this vibrant city is the perfect basecamp for exploring the incredible outdoors. Ready to lace up your boots? Let’s discover the best hiking trails near Salt Lake City.
Mount Olympus Trail
A challenging hike that rewards with panoramic views from the summit of Mount Olympus.
7.5 miles round trip, strenuous difficulty.
Highlights: Steep ascents, beautiful wildflowers, and breathtaking summit views.
Lake Blanche Trail
A popular and challenging hike to a beautiful alpine lake with views of Sundial Peak.
6.4 miles round trip, strenuous difficulty.
Highlights: Scenic views, alpine lake, and a rewarding hike.
Ensign Peak Trail
A short, steep hike to a historic viewpoint overlooking Salt Lake City.
1-mile round trip, moderate difficulty.
Highlights: Historical significance, city skyline views, and sunset vistas.
Living Room Lookout Trail
A popular trail that leads to a natural rock formation resembling a living room set, complete with “rock furniture.”
2.3 miles round trip, moderate difficulty.
Highlights: Unique rock formations, stunning views of the Salt Lake Valley, and a fun spot to relax.
Donut Falls Trail
A family-friendly hike to a picturesque waterfall in Big Cottonwood Canyon.
3.5 miles round trip, easy to moderate difficulty.
Highlights: Scenic forested trail, waterfall views, and a unique “donut” rock formation.
Bonneville Shoreline Trail
This extensive trail runs along the eastern edge of the Salt Lake Valley, offering stunning views of the city and the Great Salt Lake.
Multiple access points and sections, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty.
Highlights: Panoramic views, diverse terrain, and the opportunity to spot wildlife.
Red Pine Lake Trail
A picturesque hike leading to a stunning alpine lake in the Wasatch Mountains.
7 miles round trip, moderate to strenuous difficulty.
Highlights: Lush forest, stunning lake views, and a peaceful alpine setting.
Grandeur Peak Trail
A moderately challenging hike to one of the best viewpoints in the Salt Lake Valley.
6 miles round trip, moderate to strenuous difficulty.
Highlights: Panoramic views, varied terrain, and a rewarding summit experience.
Cecret Lake Trail
A scenic alpine hike located in Little Cottonwood Canyon.
1.7 miles round trip, easy difficulty.
Highlights: Beautiful wildflowers, alpine lake views, and opportunities to see wildlife such as moose and mountain goats.
Twin Peaks via Broads Fork Trail
A strenuous and less-traveled hike offering solitude and impressive views.
10 miles round trip, strenuous difficulty.
Highlights: Challenging ascent, stunning mountain vistas, and a sense of adventure.