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    Kessler Peak Trail

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Hard
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    3.5-5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    7.2 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    885 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
    Be the first to add a review!
    Directions to Trailhead

    The Kessler Peak Trail is a challenging hike in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest east of Salt Lake City. Believe us when we say that this hike is steep, seriously steep. The Kessler Peak Trail is guaranteed to give you a solid workout but the views along the trail and from the top make all the hard work totally worth it.

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    Route Description for Kessler Peak Trail

    The Kessler Peak Trail is a gorgeous hike east of Salt Lake City, Utah. This trail is a challenging route for experienced hikers. The consistent, steep climb to the summit will leave your legs burning and your heart pumping, but the views from the top are totally worth it. Arrive prepared with proper hiking footwear, hiking poles, and lots of snacks and water and this trail can be a fantastic time. From the top of Kessler Peak, you will earn yourself panoramic views of Big Cottonwood Canyon, Little Cottonwood Canyon, and the surrounding peaks.

    To hike the Kessler Peak Trail, begin at the Donut Falls Summer Trailhead at the south end of Cardiff Fork Road. Follow the trail on your right for half a mile, then take a right onto the Kessler Peak Trail to head southwest to the top of Kessler Peak.

    Take a long rest at the summit and soak in the incredible 360-degree views of the Utah Landscape before heading down. On the way back down, you can either retrace your steps or take a slightly different return route along the Donut Falls Trail.

    Getting to the Kessler Peak Trail Trailhead

    The Kessler Peak Trail begins at the Donut Falls Summer Trailhead at the south end of Cardiff Fork Road off of Highway 190/Big Cottonwood Canyon Road approximately 14.5 km east of Salt Lake City.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      No

    • When to do

      May to October

    • Pets allowed

      No

    • Family friendly

      No

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      High

    • Route Type

      Lollipop

    Kessler Peak Trail Elevation Graph

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    Kessler Peak Trail Reviews

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