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    Best hikes in Salt Lake City, Utah

    Hikes in Salt Lake City

    Region in Utah, United States

    Salt Lake City Hikes

    Salt Lake City hikes are an incredible outdoor adventure that provide access to some of the most picturesque terrain Utah has to offer. Right on the doorstep of the Wasatch Mountains, Salt Lake City is the ideal jumping-off point for some truly fantastic hikes. This fascinating, beautiful corner of Utah is known for its impressive craggy peaks, and particularly for the brilliant skiing opportunities in the winter months. However, come to Salt Lake City in summer, when the skies are blue and the mountains call to all avid hikers. If you are after an unforgettable outdoor experience, Salt Lake City hikes have all that you could ask for!

    As the locals will tell you, Salt Lake City’s proximity to some beautiful natural spots is what makes it a wonderful place to live and visit. With trails that begin right where the city ends, and stunning wilderness areas just a short drive away, this is a fantastic place to experience the beauty of the great outdoors. With dramatic canyons, picturesque streams and lakes, and imposing mountain peaks, there’s no shortage of wonderful Salt Lake City hikes just waiting to be discovered.

    The Wasatch Mountains are particularly known for their canyons, and many of the trails listed here will take you close to Big Cottonwood Canyon, Little Cottonwood Canyon, or Mill Creek Canyon. The Salt Lake City hikes that pass through this terrain are a thrilling experience, with plenty of diversity to keep you entertained on the trail, and some really epic views.

    Salt Lake City offers year-round adventures, with fantastic hiking and backpacking in the summer months, and superior skiing in the winter. To give you a little inspiration for your next trip, we’ve put together a guide to our favorite Salt Lake City hikes, together with some top tips on how to enjoy your trip. Sit back, relax, and start dreaming of your next adventure!

    Types Of Hiking In Salt Lake City

    Salt Lake City offers a whole host of wonderful hiking opportunities, with trails to suit all levels of ability and experience. The Wasatch Mountains offer some satisfying challenges for serious hikers, with trails that rise steeply up to towering summits. You’ll need plenty of energy to tackle some of these longer hikes, but there are rewards in abundance once you reach the top. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something a little easier, or travelling with family, you’ll find plenty of lower elevation trails with lots of interesting sights to keep younger hikers happy. With cascading waterfalls and pristine mountain lakes, there are lots of places to cool off on hot days, and plenty of beautiful picnic areas where you can relax and enjoy the view!

    Easy Hikes In Salt Lake City

    Cecret Lake Hike: This easy hike makes the most of the Alta ski lift access road to get you high into the alpine without having to expend much energy. Right from the start of the trail you’ll enjoy wonderful views, passing through alpine meadows until you come to a beautiful, serene lake. This is a wonderful place for a picnic and a tranquil moment amidst the magnificent scenery.

    Family Hikes In Salt Lake City

    Donut Falls Hike: The route to Donut Falls, deep in the heart of Big Cottonwood Canyon, is a classic family hike in Salt Lake City. It’s a short climb with spectacular views, and kids will love the sights and sounds of the huge cascading waterfall. Don’t forget to bring a change of socks as you may get wet feet on this fun, family hike!

    Day Hikes In Salt Lake City

    Red Pine Lake and Pfeifferhorn Ridge Hike: The route up to Red Pine Lake and further on to the Pfeifferhorn Ridge is one of the best day hikes in Salt Lake City, offering a magnificent panorama over the surrounding peaks. You’ll need to use your hands and there is some scrambling required at different points along the trail, but this is a really fun route for experienced, confident hikers.

    Challenging Hikes In Salt Lake City

    Box Elder Peak Hike: Hikers beware! This route up to Box Elder Peak is not for the faint of heart, with a steep, long climb all the way to the summit. However, if you’ve got the energy, the views from the top are simply sensational. You’ll see the Pfeifferhorn Ridge, Mount Timpanogos, and all the surrounding peaks, with views down as far as Salt Lake. This is an unmissable adventure if you’re a keen hiker.

    Best Hikes In Salt Lake City

    Clayton Peak Hike: The short, steep hike up to Clayton Peak is a surprisingly manageable route that offers some incredible views. As the ascent is relatively short, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the panorama from the summit, taking in the Wasatch Mountains, the Uintas, Mount Timpanogos and Box Elder. This is one of the best hikes in Salt Lake City if you want a short hiker that’s big on views.

    Silver Lake Hike: Relatively few hikers make the journey to Silver Lake, but this quiet trail offers many delights. The trail is well maintained and easy to follow and the easy switchbacks mean that you’ll barely notice the elevation gain. This lake itself is beautiful, surrounded by imposing gray cliffs that create an incredible ambience. Cool off in the crisp waters of the lake, or take a picnic and simply admire the view.

    Sunset Peak Hike: The route up to Sunset Peak passes by four stunning alpine lakes: Dog Lake, Lake Mary, Lake Martha and Lake Catherine. The views along the way are lovely, with plenty of places to stop and enjoy the water and the scenery. However, once you ascend Sunset Peak things move up a level, with a magnificent outlook into both the Little and Big Cottonwood Canyons, and a wonderful mountain panorama.

    Mount Raymond Hike: The route up to the summit of Mount Raymond requires some relatively significant elevation gain over a short period, meaning that many hikers don’t include it on their Salt Lake City itinerary. We think this is a huge mistake as the Mount Raymond hike is an incredible trek with unique views into the heart of the Wasatch. Enjoy the solitary summit and the majesty of these grand peaks.

    Lake Blanche Hike: Lake Blanche is the destination for an extremely popular hike in Salt Lake City, and it’s not hard to see why. The climb to the lake is steep, and will definitely get your legs working, but the views as you near the top are magnificent. This exceptionally pretty alpine lake is the perfect place for a picnic, where you can get your breath back after the stiff climb.

    Mount Aire Hike: This fun trail offers plenty of variation and wonderful scenery, passing through forests and wildflower meadows before finally emerging at the summit. With few switchbacks, this trail is steep and fairly arduous, but if you’re looking for a good workout, it’s a great choice. The views from the top extend into the rolling foothills of the Wasatch, and all the way to Mount Raymond and Gobbler’s Knob.

    When Is The Best Time To Hike In Salt Lake City?

    The hiking season in Salt Lake City runs from May to October, although snow can linger on high ground well into May, and you may see early flurries in October. The summer months can be very hot, with temperatures rising to an average high of 32 degrees Celsius. The spring months are cooler, but you will find the trails very muddy at this time of year, due to the high rainfall and large volume of snowmelt. As a result, we think the best time to hike in Salt Lake City is September, when you can expect cool, comfortable temperatures for hiking, and there are far fewer hikers out on the trails. What’s more, at this time of year the turning leaves create some fabulous photo opportunities! In winter, snows render many trails inaccessible, but you’ll still have the chance to go snowshoeing, skiing or snowboarding.

    Other Outdoor Activities In Salt Lake City

    Although hiking is undoubtedly popular with visitors and locals alike, there are plenty of other wonderful outdoor activities in Salt Lake City! With endless miles of beautiful hiking trails, this is a great place for a backpacking trip, getting out into the wild for some backcountry camping. What’s more, you can also enjoy rock climbing, mountain biking, horseback riding, and road biking, all in beautiful countryside just a stone’s throw from the city. Salt Lake City also has a stellar reputation as a winter sports destination, and when the snows hit expect to enjoy both downhill and cross country skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing.

    How To Plan A Trip To Salt Lake City

    If you’re thinking of making Salt Lake City your next hiking destination, we’ve got all the information you’ll need to make your trip a success. Check out our comprehensive guide to planning a trip to Salt Lake City, complete with recommendations for where to stay, what to do, and insider tips to maximize your time in this part of Utah. If you need even more inspiration, or want to go even further afield, take a look at our list of all the top hikes in Utah. Whichever trail you choose, we’re sure you won’t be disappointed!

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    Best Hikes in Salt Lake City

    Showing 1 to 20 of 151
      Open details for Clayton Peak

      Clayton Peak

      Moderate
      4.2 km
      455 m
      2-3h

      The steep hike up to Clayton Peak yields unbelievably stunning views. One of the easier summits to walk in the area, it’s surprising very few people make the trek!

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.8
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Open details for Sunset Peak

      Sunset Peak

      Moderate
      10.3 km
      540 m
      3.5-4.5h

      If you are all about lakes, hiking up past Dog Lake, Lake Mary, Lake Martha and Lake Catherine are sure to please. The extra climb up to Sunset Peak blows the lakes out of the water and makes this a spectacular walk!

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.6
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Intermediate (Square)
      Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
      Open details for Red Pine Lake & Pfeifferhorn Ridge

      Red Pine Lake & Pfeifferhorn Ridge

      Very Hard
      15.9 km
      1,202 m
      6-8.5h

      The beautiful hike up to Red Pine Lake can easily be extended to grant truly 360-degree views. Hiking past the lake and onto Pfeifferhorn Ridge involves some rock hopping and scrambling and you will need to use your hands, but for confident, experienced hikers the panoramic scenery is worth the trek.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      10.0
      Technical Difficulty
      Intermediate (Square)
      Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Advanced (Diamond)
      Suitable for advanced experience level looking for a solid adventure.
      Open details for Mt. Raymond

      Mt. Raymond

      Hard
      13.2 km
      945 m
      5-7h

      Hiking Mt. Raymond is an incredible trek granting incredible views into the heart of the Wasatch, as well as west to Salt Lake City. Due to the somewhat larger elevation gain of the walk, there are also typically fewer people on the trail; it is not uncommon to have the summit to yourself.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.8
      Technical Difficulty
      Intermediate (Square)
      Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Advanced (Diamond)
      Suitable for advanced experience level looking for a solid adventure.
      Open details for Box Elder Peak

      Box Elder Peak

      Very Hard
      22.0 km
      1,496 m
      8-11h

      One of the classic summit trails, the brutal hike up to Box Elder Peak involves gaining a full 1.6 km of elevation: aka not a walk in the park. Once you crest the ridge just under halfway up, however, you are completely surrounded by absolutely stunning views, and the panoramas from the summit are unbelievable.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      10.0
      Technical Difficulty
      Intermediate (Square)
      Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Advanced (Diamond)
      Suitable for advanced experience level looking for a solid adventure.
      Open details for Lake Blanche Trail

      Lake Blanche Trail

      Moderate
      11.0 km
      837 m
      4-6h

      The popular hike up to Lake Blanche is a hotspot for the hikers of Salt Lake City, and for good reason. The stunning alpine lake sits nestled between beautiful, rocky mountains, creating an amazing visual that makes an epic reward for your efforts along the tiring trail.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.8
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Intermediate (Square)
      Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
      Open details for Silver Lake

      Silver Lake

      Easy
      8.8 km
      429 m
      2.5-4h

      A stunning alpine lake that few people walk to due to the 4.8 km dirt road access. This crisp beautiful lake hike rewards you with views of the grey cliffs of White Baldy. It’s a stunning scene, perfect for a picnic or a swim.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      10.0
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Open details for Cecret Lake Trail

      Cecret Lake Trail

      Very Easy
      2.7 km
      143 m
      1h

      Using the access road for Alta ski lift maintenance, you are swept to high elevation without having to do much in the way of hard work. Starting in high alpine meadows, the short Cecret Lake Trail goes to a stunning alpine lake. A great reward for relatively little effort!

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.8
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Open details for Mt. Aire

      Mt. Aire

      Moderate
      6.0 km
      601 m
      2.5-4h

      Just outside of the heart of the Wasatch, the desert-like Mt. Aire is a great hike and has some stunning views. Obviously, the people who made this trail had never heard of switchbacks!

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.4
      Technical Difficulty
      Intermediate (Square)
      Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Advanced (Diamond)
      Suitable for advanced experience level looking for a solid adventure.
      Open details for Donut Falls

      Donut Falls

      Very Easy
      2.9 km
      104 m
      1h

      The classic family hike in Big Cottonwood Canyon, the short climb up to Donut Falls is quite spectacular. The large cascading waterfall is especially beautiful, as is the general scenery that surrounds you throughout the entire hike.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.9
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Open details for Upper Bells Canyon Trail

      Upper Bells Canyon Trail

      Hard
      16.1 km
      1,309 m
      6.5-9h

      The Upper Bells Canyon Trail is a challenging route in the Lone Peak Wilderness Area east of Salt Lake City. This route ascends over 1,280 m with a steep and consistent climb along a rocky trail. If you are up for the challenge, this trail will reward you with incredible views and an experience you won’t forget.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.0
      Technical Difficulty
      Intermediate (Square)
      Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Advanced (Diamond)
      Suitable for advanced experience level looking for a solid adventure.
      Open details for Mount Olympus Trail

      Mount Olympus Trail

      Very Hard
      12.6 km
      1,267 m
      5.5-8h

      Not to be confused with Mount Olympus in Washington or Mount Olympus in Greece, the Mount Olympus Trail in Utah is a popular challenge for experienced hikers. Though Mount Olympus is not the tallest mountain on the Wasatch Front, it is one of the most prominent and recognizable peaks. The trail up is seriously steep and a fantastic workout for hikers looking for a challenge.

      User Ratings
      No Reviews
      Open details for Red Butte Garden Small Loop

      Red Butte Garden Small Loop

      Easy
      3.1 km
      138 m
      1-1.5h

      The Red Butte Garden Small Loop is a wonderful hike for the whole family. This trail is located in the Red Butte Garden State Arboretum on the eastern edge of the University of Utah. The walk through the gardens is peaceful, well maintained, and full of great information on Utah plant life.

      User Ratings
      No Reviews
      Open details for The Lake Mary Trail

      The Lake Mary Trail

      Moderate
      4.2 km
      259 m
      1.5-2h

      The Lake Mary Trail is an absolutely gorgeous hike in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. Home to forest wildlife such as moose, deer, salamanders, and songbirds, Lake Mary is a pristine alpine lake with a rugged rocky shore. This trail is moderately challenging but overall family-friendly and a great way to spend the day exploring the beauty of the Utah landscape.

      User Ratings
      No Reviews
      Open details for City Creek Canyon Trail

      City Creek Canyon Trail

      Moderate
      10.5 km
      223 m
      2.5-3.5h

      The City Creek Canyon Trail is a beautiful hike just north of downtown Salt Lake City Utah. This trail is dog-friendly and popular with local hikers and trail-runners. The City Creek Canyon trail is a great place to go to escape the hustle and bustle of downtown and reset along the lush canyon pathway.

      User Ratings
      No Reviews
      Open details for Gobblers Knob via Alexander Basin

      Gobblers Knob via Alexander Basin

      Hard
      9.2 km
      950 m
      4-6h

      The Gobblers Knob via Alexander Basin trail is a steep hike to the summit of Gobblers Knob in the Wasatch Mountain Range. This mountain is the highest point on the ridge that separates Big Cottonwood Canyon and Mill Creek Canyon and the hike up is no joke. The steep and consistent climb up to the summit will leave your legs burning and your heart pumping but we promise the hard work is worth it—the views from the top are absolutely breathtaking.

      User Ratings
      No Reviews
      Open details for Ensign Peak Overlook Trail

      Ensign Peak Overlook Trail

      Easy
      1.3 km
      114 m
      0.5-1h

      The Ensign Peak Overlook Trail is a lovely, dog-friendly hike just north of downtown Salt Lake City. This historical hike is steep but an appropriate challenge for families with kids or beginner hikers. From the top, you will earn fantastic views of Salt Lake City spread out below. For an especially spectacular experience, we recommend heading out on this trail just before sunset.

      User Ratings
      No Reviews
      Open details for Lake Catherine via Brighton Lakes Trail

      Lake Catherine via Brighton Lakes Trail

      Moderate
      7.1 km
      379 m
      2.5-3h

      The hike to Lake Catherine via the Brighton Lakes Trail is a gorgeous, moderately challenging hike just east of Salt Lake City. This trail brings you past two absolutely breathtaking, pristine alpine lakes: Lake Mary and Lake Martha before looping around Lake Catherine. The Brighton Lakes trail is a cool and refreshing hike with the opportunity to see Utah wildlife, and bask in the beauty of the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest.

      User Ratings
      No Reviews
      Open details for Jack’s Mountain

      Jack’s Mountain

      Hard
      3.9 km
      408 m
      2-2.5h

      Jack’s Mountain Trail is a short but steep hike in memoriam of Jack Edwards, a young boy who passed away from leukemia in 1995. This trail climbs steeply up the hillside to a memorial at the peak. The journals at the top have become a beautiful collection of stories and memories written by people from all over the world.

      User Ratings
      No Reviews
      Open details for Cecret Lake Trail

      Cecret Lake Trail

      Easy
      2.9 km
      142 m
      1-1.5h

      With mountain views, gorgeous wildflowers and a pristine alpine lake, the Cecret Lake Trail is an absolutely beautiful hike just east of Salt Lake City in the Alta Ski Area. This trail is family-friendly and a great way to get out and explore the beauty of Utah with the kids. Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on this trail, so your four-legged friends will have to stay home.

      User Ratings
      No Reviews

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