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.
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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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