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20 Best Backpacking Trips In Utah

Posted by Mac Misseldine July 31, 2019 Updated November 05, 2023

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Whether you’re planning an overnight adventure or a weeklong backpacking trip, you’ll find plenty of worthy trails with stellar sights in the Beehive State.

Locals and visitors will find an unbelievably diverse range of backpacking trails at their disposal in Utah. Up north, the Wasatch-Uinta-Cache National Forest serves up an alpine paradise replete with rocky peaks, lush pine and aspen forest, pristine mountain lakes, and more waterfalls than you can count.

Down south, the scenery shifts to a red rock desert landscape with fascinating rock formations, epic canyons, and the largest collection of natural arches on the planet.

Thanks to the climate diversity, backpacking is a year-round activity in Utah. When it’s hot out, head to the mountains in northern Utah to cool off. When the weather turns cold and the Wasatch Range is covered in snow, head south to Grand Staircase-Escalante , Zion , and Arches National Parks to thaw your frozen limbs.

In short, no matter the season or how much time you can spare, there’s always a backcountry trail calling your name in Utah.

The Wasatch Range

Red pine lakes.

Why you should go : Visit two of the most popular alpine lakes in Utah.

• Distance : 6.8 miles
• Elevation Gain : 1,940 feet
• Difficulty : Hard

The trail to Red Pine Lakes delivers one of the best hikes in Little Cottonwood Canyon. The popular day-hike is even better when you make it an overnighter, providing more time to explore the picturesque Upper and Lower Red Pine Lakes and the surrounding Lone Peak Wilderness .

After you’ve had a chance to visit Red Pine Lake, plan another backpacking trip to its sister lake in Little Cottonwood Canyon — White Pine Lake . It’s a longer hike (10 miles round trip), but the intense blue water is out of this world.

More Information: Visit Utah

Lone Peak Area To Bells Canyon

Why you should go : Utah’s first congressionally designated wilderness features fascinating rock formations, alpine ridges, lush valleys, and panoramic views.

• Distance : 12 miles
• Elevation Gain : 5,000 feet
• Difficulty : Very Hard

The trek from the Schoolhouse Springs Trailhead to Bells Canyon highlights the best features of the Lone Peak Wilderness Area and Little Cottonwood Canyon.

You’ll ascend a drainage area with several mountain meadows to Lake Hardy, an alpine lake that sits directly between Big Horn and Chipman Peak near Thunder Mountain. We recommend stopping here to camp for the night — mostly for the spectacular views, but also because it’s the only reliable water source near the crest.

From here, you can either head back the way you came or continue over the ridge into Little Cottonwood Canyon. We prefer the latter as the hike to Bells Canyon explores Thunder Mountain and features more mountain lakes, streams, and waterfalls.

More Information : Visit Utah

Lake Blanche

Why you should go : Camp between three alpine lakes at the foot of Sundial Peak.

• Distance : 7 miles
• Elevation Gain : 2,720 feet

Lake Blanche has been a popular destination for backpackers in Utah since the 19th century. It’s hard to say what’s more beautiful — the trio of Lake Blanche, Lake Florence, and Lake Lillian, or the imposing Sundial Peak that dominates the skyline.

The trail is also a favorite of geologists, featuring fascinating quartzite formations carved by glaciers when the canyon formed thousands of years ago.

Related Read: Everything You Need to Know About Backpacking with Kids

Mount Timpanogos

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Holly Geilman (@4seasons2run) on Jul 29, 2019 at 5:31pm PDT

Why you should go : A simple overnighter with the best views in Utah Valley.

• Distance : 14.3 miles
• Elevation Gain : 4,566 feet

Perhaps the most iconic mountain along the Wasatch Front, Mount Timpanogos beckons to every backpacker within sight of its photogenic peaks. It’s possible to reach the summit on a long day-hike, but you’ll enjoy the journey more on an overnight backpacking trip.

There are two paths to the top of Mount Timpanogos. The Timpooneke Trail is the shorter, more popular route. The Mount Timpanogos Trail from Aspen Grove is arguably more scenic, but it’s also a mile longer, steeper, and a little more challenging.

Whichever route you choose, the result is the same: stunning panoramic views in every direction as far as the eye can see, and a lifetime of bragging rights.

More Information : Hiking Project

The Uinta Mountains

Ibantik lake.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Brant Beckstrand (@beckstrandenterprises) on Jul 15, 2018 at 3:46pm PDT

Why you should go : An overnighter with four alpine lakes and a mountain pass that delivers gorgeous views.

• Distance : 8.5 miles
• Elevation Gain : 1,123 feet
• Difficulty : Moderate

The hike to Ibantik Lake packs a lot of scenery for such a relatively short trip. You’ll pass three mountain lakes — Wall Lake, Hope Lake, and Lake Lovenia — and have the chance to spend the night near the shore of Ibantik Lake, an alpine lake that lies in a cirque. You’ll enjoy some great views along the way, especially from the Notch Mountain Pass after Hope Lake.

Amethyst Basin

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Louis Kamler (@uintatrekker) on Jul 18, 2019 at 5:04pm PDT

Why you should go : The best backpacking adventure in the High Uintas Wilderness.

• Elevation Gain : 1,900 feet

See the best features of the High Uintas Wilderness with a tour of Amethyst Basin. The picturesque basin boasts multiple alpine lakes and waterfalls surrounded by a grand mountainous landscape.

This isn’t exactly a beginner trail, but the moderately challenging hike is great for new backpackers with a healthy set of legs — especially if you break it up into three or four days.

Trail Information : The Outbound

Red Castle Lakes

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Kelsey Kagan (@kelseykagan) on Sep 5, 2017 at 8:40am PDT

Why you should go : A red rock paradise in the High Uintas replete with a towering rock formation and several alpine lakes.

• Distance : 25 miles
• Elevation Gain : 3,010 feet

It’s a long road to Red Castle Lakes, but the slow-and-steady pace makes the elevation gain pretty doable.

You’ll wind through a lodgepole pine forest with tranquil mountain meadows, then ascend a series of switchbacks before the Red Castle comes into view. Lower Red Castle Lake is just ahead, and yes, you’re free to take a dip in the water to cool off after a long day of hiking.

Lower Red Castle Lake is magnificent, but it’s a popular camping area that can get a little crowded. For those seeking seclusion, press on another three miles to Red Castle Lake. You can also make the quick hike up to Upper Red Castle Lake and Red Castle itself to enjoy more of the local sights.

King’s Peak

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Jacob Huff (@jacobhuff6) on Jul 30, 2019 at 5:14pm PDT

Why you should go : Summit Utah’s highest peak and enjoy astounding views of the Uinta Range.

• Distance : 26.8 miles
• Elevation Gain : 5,118 feet

At 13,528 feet, King’s Peak takes the cake for the tallest mountain in Utah. It may not be a Colorado 14er, but King’s Peak is known for having one of the most dramatic prominences in the lower 48 states. You’ll enjoy incredible top-of-the-world views that are well worth the ascent.

There are at least four well-known trails to King’s Peak, so you can pick your starting point on any side of the mountain. Henry’s Fork Campground is the most popular place to begin, especially if you bring a fishing pole or kayak and have an extra day to spend on the water.

On your journey to the top of King’s Peak you’ll pass a number of picturesque mountain lakes, including Alligator Lake, Sawmill Lake, Bear Lake, Grass Lake, Henry’s Fork Lake, and Dollar Lake.

Trail Information : Utah Travel

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

Golden cathedral.

Why you should go : Picture beams of golden sunlight cutting through the sandstone ceiling to illuminate the tranquil pool below.

• Distance : 9.5 miles
• Elevation Gain : 1,260 feet

This is one of those rare backpacking adventures where the journey is nearly as magnificent as the destination. Starting at the Egypt Trailhead, you’ll immediately enjoy views of the Egypt Cliffs before descending into Neon Canyon. As the name suggests, Neon Canyon features a brilliant display of natural color as the sunlight and shadows dance across the sandstone walls.

Your ultimate destination is Golden Cathedral, a unique natural wonder where thousands of years of water erosion has carved three holes into the sandstone ceiling. At midday, the sunlight streams through the openings and lands on the pool below like a trio of natural spotlights.

Don’t let the Golden Cathedral Trail’s moderate difficulty fool you — this is a technical trail that requires canyon navigation skills and climbing gear to rappel down. The hydro-hike involves wading through multiple pools and possibly swimming through some sections if the water levels are high, so be sure to pack appropriately with waterproof gear.

More Information : Your Hike Guide

Death Hollow

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Catherine Gregory (@catgphoto) on Oct 31, 2018 at 3:19pm PDT

Why you should go : A hydro-hike through a deep gorge with slot canyons, waterslides, petroglyphs, and beautiful views.

• Distance : 14 miles
• Elevation Gain : 2,312 feet

The Death Hollow hike takes backpackers across McGrath Point Bench and Slickrock Saddle Bench down to the narrow depths of Death Hollow. Ignore the morbid name — this surprisingly deep gorge is one of the most dramatic canyons in the area, showcasing the raw, natural beauty of the wilderness that draws adventurers to Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

You’ll spend a fair amount of time wading through pools as you navigate Death Hollow, and you may find yourself swimming when the water levels are high enough. Flash floods are deadly down here, so keep a sharp eye on the weather.

More Information : Utah Travel

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Coyote gulch.

Why you should go : a gorgeous red rock canyon featuring two arches, a natural bridge, and multiple waterfalls

• Distance : 11.5 miles
• Elevation Gain : 1,840 feet

Coyote Gulch is a popular destination in the heart of southern Utah’s canyon country, accessible by quick day hikes, overnighters, and weeklong backpacking adventures.

Whichever path you choose, you’ll enjoy spectacular scenery from start to finish. Along the lazy river you’ll find a couple of arches, a natural bridge, ancient pictographs, and a number of small waterfalls.

Reflection Canyon

Why you should go : visit the most photogenic canyon in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

• Distance : 20 miles
• Elevation Gain : 1,234 feet

If you’re an Apple fan, you may recognize Reflection Canyon as the default screensaver back in 2012. As great as it looked in full Retina color, trust us — the view is even better in person.

Reflection Canyon flew under the radar until National Geographic photographer Michael Melford published some epic photos of the canyon in 2006. It’s steadily grown in popularity since then, though the distance and challenge do a good job of keeping the crowds down.

More Information : Outdoor Project

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce canyon under the rim trail.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Doug (@dhadzhouser) on Jul 2, 2018 at 12:26pm PDT

Why you should go : Tackle the longest trail in Bryce Canyon National Park with epic views from start to finish.

• Distance : 23 miles (one-way)
• Elevation Gain : 2,700 feet

Bryce Canyon’s Under the Rim Trail delivers a legendary backpacking adventure through the country’s smallest national park. Whether you tackle the monstrous trail point-to-point or combine it with other trails to make a loop (the park has a great shuttle system to support both), you’ll enjoy distant views of Bryce Canyon’s famous slot canyons and hoodoos in relative seclusion.

Wildfires and trail damage have forced the park to close several portions of the Under the Rim Trail, so be sure to check the National Park Service website for closures when you’re planning your route.

Zion National Park

Trans-zion trek (zion traverse).

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Matt Morawetz (@mattynochains) on Jul 16, 2019 at 2:43pm PDT

Why you should go : An epic odyssey through Zion National Park that’s been crowned one of the most scenic trails in America.

• Distance : 48.3 miles
• Elevation Gain : 6,334 feet

Men’s Journal proclaimed the Trans-Zion Trek the most scenic running trail in America back in 2003. While we agree with the scenic part, we’re pretty confident that you’ll enjoy the journey’s stellar sights more at a leisurely pace.

You can easily break the Trans-Zion Trek into smaller day-hikes and overnighters, but the truly adventurous will begin their 50-mile odyssey at Lees Pass in Kolob Canyon. The 4-6 day journey takes you all the way from the northwest tip to the southwest corner of the park, concluding at the Echo Canyon Trailhead.

West Rim Trail

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by A Stokes (@iamstokes317) on Jul 4, 2019 at 6:54am PDT

Why you should go : Descend from the highest point in Zion National Park through the White Cliffs to the photogenic Grotto in Zion Canyon.

• Distance : 16.2 miles
• Elevation Gain : 3,600 feet

If you don’t have a week to tackle the Trans-Zion Trail, check out the West Rim Trail. You can complete the top-to-bottom hike in 2-3 days, and you’ll still get to see some of the best sights in Zion National Park.

The West Rim Trail starts at Lava Point, where you’ll find a stellar viewpoint that serves as a preview for your backpacking adventure. Your journey will take you down past the White Cliffs into picturesque Zion Canyon, where you’ll find a magical desert grotto awaiting at the end of the trail.

Canyonlands National Park

Big needles loop.

Why you should go : A long but mostly level loop hike through the colorful spires of Cedar Mesa Sandstone that comprise The Needles.

• Distance : 23.2 miles
• Elevation Gain : 600 feet

With much of the area only accessible by backcountry trails, you’ll find that The Needles offers the best of Canyonlands National Park without the crowds that swarm to the Island in the Sky. Thanks to a great network of interconnected trails, you can easily put together a multi-day itinerary that fits your schedule and doesn’t rely on complicated shuttle transfers.

The four-day Big Needles Loop features enough impressive sights and viewpoints to stand on its own, but the best part about this hike is the number of side trips at your disposal. If you have time to spare, consider making detours to visit Elephant Canyon, Upper Lost Canyon, Peekaboo Spring, and Chesler Park Overlook.

Harvest Scene

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Steven Foldi (@deathwithwalls) on Apr 21, 2019 at 5:51pm PDT

Why you should go : Navigate the narrow canyons of The Maze to reach one of the most famous rock art sites in the world.

• Distance : 8.7 miles
• Elevation Gain : 1,600 feet

Known for its labyrinth of narrow canyons, The Maze is the least accessible district in Canyonlands National Park. It’s been named one of the 10 most dangerous hikes in the US by Backpacker Magazine — a siren song for experienced backpackers looking for a unique and challenging desert adventure.

The Harvest Scene Hike is the only loop trail in The Maze, and it’s just the right length for an overnight backpacking trip. If you can successfully tackle the rocky labyrinth without getting lost, Harvest Scene features a miraculously well-preserved set of petroglyphs that dates back 3,000 years. ;

Bears Ears National Monument

Grand gulch.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Nick C McMahan (@nickcmcmahan) on May 30, 2019 at 6:20pm PDT

Why you should go : An exciting hike for history buffs and archaeologists, featuring well-preserved cliff dwellings, artifacts, and pictographs of the Ancestral Puebloans.

• Elevation Gain : 1,719 feet

A hidden gem, Grand Gulch was once the best-kept secret in southern Utah. The rugged, remote stretch of backcountry is only accessible by foot, providing backpackers a level of silence and solitude that’s becoming increasingly rare on the trails.

Grand Gulch features gorgeous red rock canyons, stellar stargazing, fascinating Native American ruins, and ancient pictographs. The ruins and pictographs date back 700-2000 years and are miraculously well-preserved.

More Information : Roots Rated

Dark Canyon Wilderness

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Utahgram (@utahgram) on Jun 26, 2019 at 6:05am PDT

Why you should go : Enjoy peace and quiet on the trail as you traverse the forest and desert landscape of the Dark Canyon Wilderness.

• Distance : 40 miles
• Elevation Gain : 2,300 feet

The Dark Canyon Wilderness in Manti-La Sal National Forest offers a diverse range of scenery, featuring a mix of forest and desert landscape that’s dotted with ancient Native American ruins and petroglyphs. Backpacking the full 40-mile loop through Dark, Woodenshoe, and Peavine Canyons usually takes 5-7 days, though you can almost double that with all of the side trails at your disposal.

Owl Creek—Fish Creek Loop

Why you should go : As you explore two incredible desert canyons you’ll pass three natural arches, ancient cliff dwellings, and rock art sites.

• Distance : 17 miles
• Elevation Gain : 1,300 feet

As Grand Gulch grows in popularity, more backpackers are looking elsewhere to experience Cedar Mesa without the crowds. The Owl Creek—Fish Creek Loop is a popular alternative, taking backpackers through two deep, narrow canyons with gorgeous desert scenery, including Nevill’s Arch and two unnamed arches.

As you’re appreciating the desert scenery, keep an eye out for the Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings and rock art on the canyon walls.

Keep Exploring Utah

When you’re ready to swap your backpack for a daypack, check out our favorite hikes near Provo and Moab . We’ve also got the 411 on the best waterfall hikes in Utah , featuring falls from the Salt Lake area down to red rock country and everything in between. For a cushier stay in Utah, check out our favorite  Airbnb rentals near Zion National Park .

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Seen in: Arches National Park , Backpacking , Canyonlands , Utah , Zion National Park

Posted by Mac Misseldine

Mac is a digital marketer and freelance writer based in Pleasant Grove, Utah. He enjoys exploring the countless trails that the Beehive State has to offer, though his favorite outdoor adventures involve a snowboard and fresh powder.

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There’s probably about 15,678 scientific research studies that prove that nature is the best medicine (Sorry, laughter. Nature might have you beat.) Life gets crazy busy, and the first thing to go is usually something that seems like too much planning and effort — don’t let backpacking slip through your keyboard-tired fingers. Go. Just go. Camping overnight is totally doable.

Also, LEAVE NO TRACE . When you head out anywhere, please, pretty, pretty, pretty please, try not to love these places to death. Here’s a quick list of seven LNT principles:

• Plan Ahead and Prepare: Know regulations, prepare for weather hazards, avoid high times of use, visit in small groups, use a map and don’t build cairns.
• Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Established trails and campsites, rock, gravel, dry grasses or snow, camp at least 200 feet from lakes and streams, walk single file in the middle of the trail, keep campsites small.
• Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack it in, pack it out, deposit solid human waste in catholes 6-8 inches deep — 200 feet from water, pack out toilet paper and other hygiene products, wash dishes with biodegradable soap 200 feet from water.
• Leave What You Find: Do not touch or take cultural or historical artifacts, leave rocks and plants as you find them, do not build structures or dig trenches.
• Minimize Campfire Impacts: Use a lightweight stove for cooking, use fire rings where fires are permitted, keep fires small, only use sticks from the ground, burn all wood and coals to ash, put out fires completely, scatter cool ashes.
• Respect Wildlife: Observe wildlife from a distance, never feed animals, store rations and trash securely, control pets at all times.
• Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Be courteous, yield to other users on the trail, avoid loud voices and noises.

5. White Pine Lake

AREA: Greater Salt Lake | Little Cottonwood Canyon LENGTH: 5 miles to the lake ELEVATION GAIN: 2,696 feet DIFFICULTY: Strenuous

Thank you, Salt Lake City, for being born right next to some of the most magnificent mountains in the whole wide world. Because it takes just 30 minutes from downtown to get to the White Pine Trailhead. Perfect for an overnight getaway from the routine in our big little city.

The trail starts out wide and easy. The incline increases once you pass the river junction where you can either take a right to Red Pine Lake, or continue left up some switchbacks up to White Pine Lake. Steep enough to get your heart pumping, and a good excuse to stop and rest and hydrate.

The lake itself will give you an awe-some perspective. You’ll take in alpine scenery and majestic mountains. Read More...

4. Ibantik Lake

AREA: Uinta Mountains LENGTH: 4.2 miles to the lake ELEVATION GAIN: 590 feet DIFFICULTY: Moderate

The Uintas are less crowded, but take a little more time to get to from the big city.

The trailhead is located just off Mirror Lake Highway (east of Kamas). When you get to Trial Lake, exit west onto a paved road. You’ll drive for about a mile until you see a fork in the road, then turn north for another mile to get to the trailhead.

Enjoy passing lakes and smaller ponds on your way into Ibantik. Seriously, enjoy it.

3. Mount Timpanogos

AREA: Utah Valley | Provo or American Fork Canyon LENGTH: From Aspen Grove to Summit: 8 miles one way, Camp: ¾ way to Emerald Lake (6.5 miles to the lake) | From Timpooneke Road: Summit: 7.5 miles one way, Camp: just as you enter the basin at about 10,000 feet ELEVATION GAIN: 4,580 feet DIFFICULTY: Strenuous

Girls and boys start hiking this amazing peak around age ten. It’s strenuous, but doable. Either trail will take most of the day to hike in. Take advantage of grand view for photo ops and to catch your breath. Read More...

2. Zion National Park's West Rim Trail

AREA: Zion National Park LENGTH: 14.5 miles one way ELEVATION GAIN: 2,510 feet DIFFICULTY: Moderate

You’ll basically be absorbed into Zion’s sheer-cliff sandstone beauties, summit Angels Landing , and continue on to more undeniably gorgeous views. Your breath will catch over and over again as you come into contact with a grand western landscape. Read More...

1. Neon Canyon and Golden Cathedral

AREA: Grand Staircase-Escalante LENGTH: 9.2 miles ELEVATION GAIN: 1,260 feet DIFFICULTY: moderate

The Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is one of the nation’s remotest and interesting landscapes. Canyons, washes and epic night skies draw adventurers here with a magnetic pull no one can resist once they’ve been here for the first time. You’ll want to come back and explore until the day you die.

Neon Canyon and Golden Cathedral require some technical know-how and gear. You’ll need ropes for rappelling and, depending on the time of year, you might want dry suits. CHECK THE WEATHER REPORT when going into canyon country. Flash floods are for real, and they’re devastating. Read More...

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The 9 best backpacking trails near Salt Lake City

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Best Hikes in Salt Lake City: 15 Epic Trails

By: Author Insider's Utah

Posted on Last updated: March 12, 2023

Categories Salt Lake City

Home » Best Hikes in Salt Lake City: 15 Epic Trails

The ultimate Salt Lake City hiking guide. Discover 15 incredible hikes to add to your SLC itinerary.

Planning a hiking trip to Salt Lake City ? Or, just fancy spending the day immersed in nature? You’ve come to the right place. We’ve got the low down on the best hikes in Salt Lake City.

The capital of Utah sees more than 120 million visitors each year – many of these flock to experience sunny skies, stunning landscapes, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. 

Hiking is one of the most popular outdoor activities in SLC. As long as you have proper gear, you can enjoy hiking throughout the entire year. There are more than 300 miles of hiking trails with over 40 designated and named trails throughout the SLC area.

Pretty impressive, we think.

Ready to plan your own adventure? Keep reading to discover the best hikes in Salt Lake City…

Best Hikes in Salt Lake City

Lake mary trail .

Length: 2.6  miles 

Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Difficulty: Moderate 

First up: Our favourite Salt Lake City trail. The Lake Mary Trail is an out-and-back trail generally considered to be moderate in difficulty. 

Located in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, this hike is popular all year long, though it’s most heavily traveled from January through October. The trail is not always clearly marked so downloading a map or having a backup GPS is recommended. 

This trailhead is ​​at the Brighton Ski Resort where you can park in the lot and then follow the signs for Lake Catherine. FYI, Lake Mary is the first lake along this trail followed by Lake Martha then Lake Catherine. While you can’t swim in any of the lakes, the views are worth it. 

During the winter months, this trail crosses potential avalanche terrain so it’s important to be aware of triggers and what to do if one were to happen. It is one of the best winter hikes in Salt Lake City.

Suggested Map

Cecret Lake Trail 

Length: 1.8 miles 

Time:  About 1 hour

Difficulty: Moderate  

For one of the best hikes near Salt Lake City, check out Cecret Lake Trail (no, we promise this isn’t a typo). 

This out-and-back trail leads to a gorgeous alpine lake. And, while the lake is occasionally drained, stunning mountain views are pretty much always guaranteed. 

The hike is fairly easy, which means that it’s a popular route. This does mean that the parking lot can get quite crowded so getting there early is recommended. If you’re a little bit worries about finding a space, there’s also the option of parking in the Albion base area and using Upper Albion Meadows Trail to access Cecret Lake Trail. 

June through September are the most popular months to hike this trail but many people use it all year long. As with other hikes on this list, if you’re hiking in winter, be aware of the avalanche conditions. 

The trail can be steep and rocky at times but is suitable for children, however, dogs are not allowed on this trail. 

Ensign Peak Trail and Overlook 

Length: Less than 1 mile  

Time: 45 mins

Difficulty: Easy

Though the Ensign Peak hike is very short, it packs a real punch in terms of beauty. It’s an out-and-back hike with stunning views from the top, and once you arrive at the summit, you’re rewarded with Salt Lake Valley and Great Salt Lake. 

The path is well-maintained and a popular route all year long – you might be glad to hear that kids and dogs are able to hike this trail (dogs must be on a leash and cleaned up after).

We’ll warn you, though, during winter months or after heavy snowfall/ rain, parts of the trail can get slippery, icy, and/or muddy. Stay safe, friends!

Silver Lake Loop Trail 

Length: less than 1 mile

Time: 20-30 minutes

Another one of the shorter hikes in Salt Lake City, the Silver Lake Loop takes you around – you guessed it – Silver Lake. 

The path is very popular for families as part of the trail is a boardwalk and the other is hard-packed dirt. There are some elevated and uneven parts of the trail but it is generally considered to be wheelchair and stroller friendly. 

Though this trail is short and easy, there is the potential risk of avalanches during the winter months. A simple check of the forecast before heading can give you warning levels. 

The parking lot is paved and offers a number of designated spaces.

Broads Fork Trail 

Length: 5.5 miles 

Time: 4 hours

Difficulty: Hard 

If you’re looking for a more advanced hiking trail near Salt Lake City, consider Broads Fork Trail. 

This is another out-and-back hike that is popular all year long. But fair warning: Pets and young children should stay home as it is considered to be a challenging hike. 

The trail is steep and rocky and follows a river that can get quite swollen after heavy rainfall or as snow begins to melt. During the winter months, the trail traverses through potential avalanche territory, so it’s always good to check conditions before heading out. 

Broads Fork is a slightly more obscure hike so you may only run into a few other people on the route. 

Better yet, it’s one of the shadier Salt Lake City hikes, making it a great option for those hot summer days.  

Lake Solitude Trail 

Length: 3.2 miles 

Time: 1 hour, 30 minutes

Difficulty: Medium 

The Lake Solitude Trail is an out-and-back trail type that most people consider semi-challenging. The trail is well maintained and many people use it year-round, but it’ is important to stay on the correct trail as other trails link up to it as well.

We’ll warn you that many people spot deer and moose along this trail and it is important to keep a distance and not interact with the wildlife. Admire from a distance!

Lake Solitude Trail has something special to offer each season of the year. Whether it’s the changing of the leaves during fall, the sparkling white of winter, or the enchanting wildflowers in the warmer months, this trek is said to be one of the greatest hikes near Salt Lake City. 

Grandeur Peak Trail (West Face) 

Length: 4.5 miles 

Time: 4 hours, 45 minutes

Another great hike around Salt Lake City is the Grandeur Peak Trail. This trail is popular all year long for hiking and snowshoeing. It’s considered semi-challenging and covers a lot of different terrains so it’s important to have proper shoes for the season you’re hiking in. 

Dogs are welcome on this trail but it’s probably best to leave small kids at home. It is quite steep the whole way up and can get pretty slippery during the winter or after rain. 

When’s best to hike this trail? Autumn, we think. You can see all the leaves change colors from different heights which makes for one of the best fall hikes near Salt Lake City.

City Creek Canyon Trail 

Length: 6.5 miles 

Time: 2 hours, 45 minutes

City Creek Canyon Trail is one of the longer options on this list. But don’t let that put you off – the views are well worth it. 

City Creek Canyon Road runs parallel to the trail and allows mountain bikes. Beware – although paved, it’s a very steep trail and is not wheelchair or stroller accessible.

Most people hike this trail from the months of April through October but it remains open throughout the year. The trail runs through meadows and streams with stunning views of the mountains. 

There is limited parking at the trailhead so carpooling or getting there early is recommended. 

Thayne Canyon Loop 

Length: 1.5 miles 

Time: 1 hour

Difficulty: Medium  

Thayne Canyon Loop is one of the best trails near SLC. It’s on the shorter side, so it usually takes people less than an hour to complete. 

It’s known to be one of the most beautiful hikes in all of Utah with views of rivers, mountains, forests, and meadows. It’s open all year long with limited parking at the trailhead. 

The trail is well-marked and maintained, but dogs are only allowed on certain days and times and the best way to stay up to date with that information is here . 

Sundial Peak Trail via Lake Blanche

Length: 10 miles 

Time: 7 hours, 30 minutes

Another long hike, Sundial Peak Trail is considered by many to be one of the best trails in Salt Lake City. 

Sad news – it’s not dog-friendly, because part of the trail requires scrambling. Oh, and  during the winter, the trail goes through potential avalanche terrain. 

It’s an out-and-back trail and, even though it is long, it is pretty manageable for most people. Moose have been spotted on and near the trail so it’s important to keep your eyes and ears open – be sensible, stay back, and we promise you won’t have any issues.

Since this trail is longer, leave early enough so you’re not hiking in the dark and know when it’s time to turn around, even if you haven’t reached the end of the trail or the summit. 

Miller Park Loop 

Length: Less than 1 mile 

Difficulty: Easy 

If you’re looking for easy hikes near Salt Lake City, look no further than Miller Park Loop. At less than a mile, this loop is ideal for anyone short on time or any newbies. 

The highlights of this trail are the thick patches of trees and the babbling stream. Though parts of the trail are paved, there are several sets of steps, so it’s not totally wheelchair or stroller friendly. 

There is a parking lot as well as street parking nearby. 

Sugar House Park Loop 

Length: 1.7 miles 

Time: 45 minutes

Looking for an easy walk that doesn’t compromise when it comes to impressive views? Add the Sugar House Park Loop to your Utah itinerary. 

Just shy of two miles, this loop is popular with runners, walkers, and bikers alike. It’s paved with painted lines dividing the lanes, making it wheelchair and stroller friendly. There is also plenty of free parking.

The path takes you around the lake with incredible views of the mountains and trees. Leashed pets are a common sight (dog-spotters will be in heaven) along with people rollerblading and skating. There are bathrooms, picnic tables, and pavilions all on site. 

One downside to this walk is that it is also shared with cars, however, the loop remains a popular spot throughout the entire year.

Jordan River Parkway Trail 

Length: 45.3 miles 

Difficulty: Medium

Looking for a real challenge? The Parkway Trail is a point-to-point multi-use trail that goes through several parks and neighborhoods – and sometimes runs along a river. 

Of course, you don’t have to do the entire trail all in one go – many people do it in sections. We particularly love the segment that runs between Murray and Taylorsville.

Though the trail can be quite urban at times, there are also stunning views of the mountains, lakes, rivers, and more.

Dogs are welcome but must be leashed at all times along the trail. The path remains open all year long.

Salt Lake Overlook via Desolation Trail

Length: 4.8 miles 

This challenging out-and-back trek is one of the better places to hike in Salt Lake City with your dog. 

Dogs are allowed off-leash on odd-numbered days but must be kept on their leash on even-numbered days. We’re not quite sure why this system was put in place but it manages to be strictly respected.

Most people hike this trail between May and October but it is open all year long. During the winter months, people use this trail for snowshoeing. Described as well-maintained and well-marked, Salt Lake Overlook Trail utilizes switchbacks that bring you to a viewpoint overlooking SLC.

You can stop and turn back here or there is an option to continue to the end of Desolation Trail which goes on for another 18 miles.

Gobblers Knob via Alexander Basin Trail

There are several ways to arrive at Gobblers Knob, but if you’re going via the Alexander Basin Trail, you can expect to be hiking for about 5 hours in total. It’s an out an back trail that is known to be steep for the majority of the route.

We recommend wearing sturdy boots for this hike as it can get rocky and slippery in certain areas. The trail is at its best from May to December and is typically a more quiet route. Dogs are welcome as long as they are on a lead. 

Even though this trail can be strenuous, it is well worth the views once you reach the top and there are flat areas where you can rest along the way. Moose are known to frequent this trail so it is important to be aware of your surroundings, especially during mating season.

Salt Lake City Hikes: Practical Tips 

To ensure you enjoy the best hikes in Salt Lake City follow these tips. 

Hiking in Cold Weather

It goes without saying that staying warm and dry is vital – pack plenty of extra layers and wear thick socks to keep your toes toasty. Waterproof boots are always a good idea in case the weather turns miserable.

When hiking, always pick a time when you will turn back once it starts to get dark – please stay safe out on the trails. Bringing a flashlight and extra batteries is always recommended, too.

Hiking in Warm Weather 

When hiking in the summer, start early to avoid the blaring mid day heat, and always bring more water than you think you’ll need. Dehydration is no joke.

Be aware of bears (particularly between April and November), moose, and other wildlife. Bringing bear spray/bells can also help protect you from grisly wildlife.

Best Salt Lake City Hikes: Map 

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12 Best Hikes Near Salt Lake City

Learn about 12 of the best Salt Lake City hikes from alpine lakes to peaks to waterfalls including trail stats and trailhead info.

From alpine lakes to gorgeous waterfalls to epic peaks, there are endless hiking trails to explore near Salt Lake City. Located in the heart of the Wasatch Mountains, you’ll be treated to fields of alpine wildflowers in the heart of summer and bright yellow aspen trees in the fall.

While Utah is home to 5 National Parks and known for its red desert canyons, there is so much more to explore in the state. I’ve called Salt Lake City home for over 5 years and in this guide, I outline my favorite trails in the Salt Lake City area.

Looking to hit the trail? We’ve rounded up the best hikes in Salt Lake City so you can easily plan your next adventure.

As it goes in all of the destinations we share, please practice  good trail etiquette  and remember to  Leave No Trace . This means packing out all of your garbage, being respectful to others on busy trails, and following the established rules. 

Best Lake Hikes Near Salt Lake City

When Salt Lake City summer temperatures hit 90 degrees, why not head to the mountains and cool down on the shores of these beautiful alpine lakes? These hikes can be done as day hikes or overnight backpacking trips . Please note that swimming is not allowed at any of these lakes because they feed the Salt Lake City watershed.

Red Pine Lake

• Distance: 6.8 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 2000 feet
• Time: 4 hours
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trailhead start: Red/White Pine Trailhead
• Dogs Allowed: No

The hike to Red Pine Lake begins at the White Pine Lake trailhead and starts by moving gently up through a grove of aspen trees. Once you are at Red Pine Lake, you can decide to continue upwards to Upper Red Pine Lake . To find Upper Red Pine Lake you’ll need to hike the stream that flows into Lower Red Pine Lake. There is not a maintained trail between the two but you’ll see a hiker-made trail that connects the two. For the full trail description and tips for overnight backpacking at Red Pine Lake, see my detailed Red Pine Lake Trail guide .

Interested in checking out even more? From the lower lake, it is about a 1.5-mile climb to the top of the Pfeifferhorn , a popular 11,326-foot summit, and Salt Lake City’s 3rd highest peak. You can read our guide to hiking to the Pfeifferhorn here .

Read next: Best Utah Backpacking Trips

White Pine Lake

• Distance: 10.7 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 2700 feet
• Time: 5 hours

The hike to White Pine Lake starts out on the same trail as Red Pine Lake. After crossing the first footbridge over Little Cottonwood Creek the trail forks. Go left here and climb up towards White Pine Canyon.  After a mile when you come to the next junction, you’ll come to a stream. Do not cross that stream. Instead, head up to the left and continue on the old 4WD jeep road (which is no longer open to cars). This will climb up and is very easy to follow. Stay on this until you reach White Pine Lake, and enjoy the awesome views along the way!

Lake Blanche

• Elevation Gain: 2800 feet
• Time: 3 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate/Hard
• Trailhead start: Lake Blanche Trailhead

Don’t miss this absolutely incredible alpine lake that sits under Sundial Peak. We love this hike due to its shaded start amidst mighty oak and aspen trees. The trail to Lake Blanche also offers incredible views of the Salt Lake Valley as you get higher up. The trail is easy to follow, except for one section where you cross a very short boulder field. When you get here look for cairns if you can’t find the trail. Once you are at Lake Blanche, If you’re up for exploring more you can also access Florence and Lillian Lakes on short, spur trails that lead to the right along the dam.

Cecret Lake

• Distance: 2 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 300 feet
• Time: 1 hour
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trailhead start: Cecret Lake Trailhead

Arguably a right of passage for all Salt Lake City residents, this Alta Ski Area hike is an easy way to kill an afternoon in the Wasatch Mountains. The trail to Cecret Lake is known for incredible wildflowers and the occasional moose sighting (I saw 3 when I went!). From the lake , you can also climb to the top of Sugarloaf Peak for an incredible sunset vista. Or alternatively, for a longer hike, you can also start at the Albion Meadows Trail at the lower parking lot.

Lake Mary, Martha, & Catherine

• Distance: 5.4 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 1200 feet
• Time: 3-4 Hours
• Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
• Trailhead start: Lake Mary Trailhead

Why hike to one lake when you could hike to three? Lake Mary is first, then Lake Martha (which is the smallest), and finally, Lake Catherine which is almost completely surrounded by mountain peaks–definitely worth going to the end. The further you go, the more solitude you’ll have, but if you don’t have time, even the quick hike to Lake Mary makes for a great afternoon.

And if three lakes aren’t enough for you, just to the south of Lake Catherine is Sunset Peak which you can access by a 0.6 mile trail that gains 708 feet. I went up there for sunset last summer, and the views were incredible.

Willow Lake

• Distance: 2.4 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 600 feet
• Trailhead start: Willow Heights Trailhead

Willow Lake is one of the most family-friendly, easy hikes near Salt Lake City. Winding through a shady aspen forest, you will reach the picturesque lake in 3/4 of a mile – continue onward around the lake for an easy stroll. Willow Lake is especially gorgeous in the fall when all the leaves turn yellow!

There is no signage or large parking area, so it’s easy to miss the trailhead without GPS. Just past the end of an area with homes and businesses, the road bends to the left. Look for a 35-mph speed limit sign facing toward down-canyon traffic, which is located at the trail entrance. There is a small stone monument designating the Willow Heights conservation area — this is the beginning of the trail.

Bell Canyon to Lower Falls

• Distance: 4.6 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 1400 feet
• Time: 3-4 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trailhead start: Bell Canyon Granite Trailhead

Bell Canyon is a relatively short (but challenging!) hike in the Wasatch Mountains. Not only does this hike include a lake, but it also leads to a gorgeous cascading waterfall. Once you reach the Bell Canyon Lower Reservoir, you will continue up a steep, rocky path to reach the Lower Falls. This is a great place for a lunch break! Throughout this hike, you will have amazing views of the surrounding canyon and the city below. Be aware that rattlesnakes frequent this area, especially around dusk in the summer.

Best Waterfall Hikes Near Salt Lake City

Donut falls.

• Distance: 1.5 miles roundtrip
• Time: 45 minutes
• Trailhead start: End of FR019 (40.63956, -111.65127)

Donut Falls is a great easy hike near Salt Lake City – perfect for families or a leisurely stroll. There are tons of waterfall hikes in Utah – but only this one drops into a cave. Years of erosion caused a donut-shaped hole in the rock where water now cascades down – a very unique thing to see!

This hike is extremely popular, so get an early start to beat the crowds and find a parking spot.

Stewart Falls

• Distance: 3.4 miles roundtrip
• Time: 1.5-2 hours
• Trailhead start: Aspen Grove Parking Lot
• Dogs Allowed: Yes

Stewart Falls is a 200-foot two-tier cascading waterfall located about an hour south of downtown Salt Lake. As you hike through the forest, you’ll see the east side of Mt. Timpanogos . This hike is best during early summer when there is fresh snowmelt or during fall when the aspens turn bright yellow.

Parking at the Aspen Grove parking lot requires a $6 entry fee (as of September 2021, valid for 3 days), paid at a tollbooth on the Alpine Scenic Loop.

Best Peak Hikes Near Salt Lake City

Grandeur peak east via church fork.

• Distance: 5.9 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 2300 feet
• Trailhead start: Grandeur Peak via Church Fork Trailhead Picnic Area
• Dogs Allowed: Yes – off-leash on odd-numbered days, on-leash on even-numbered days

With jaw-dropping views along the trail and at the summit, it’s no wonder this hike is called “Grandeur”. While this hike can be done at any time of day, we recommend you wake up and hit the trail at sunrise for gorgeous views and a mostly shaded trail. You’ll be watching the sunrise above the treeline!

You can access Grandeur Peak from the east (our recommendation here) or from the west, and although the west trail is slightly shorter in distance at 4.4 miles, you gain an additional 1000 feet in elevation, making it a much tougher climb.

Mount Olympus

• Distance: 7.8 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 4100 feet
• Time: 6+ hours
• Trailhead start: Mt. Olympus Trailhead

Mt. Olympus is a grueling trail that climbs over 4,000 feet and is best for experienced hikers. This is definitely a bucket list hike but it requires adequate physical and mental preparation. The last mile ascends 2000 feet and includes a lot of scrambling. Pack PLENTY of water as this trail is fully exposed and gets hot during the summer. Trekking poles are also highly recommended.

Those who decide to tackle Mt. Olympus will be rewarded with amazing views over Salt Lake City and the Wasatch Mountains – plus bragging rights.

Desolation Overlook

• Distance: 5.2 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 1300 feet
• Time: 2-3 hours
• Trailhead start: Thaynes Canyon Trailhead
• Dogs Allowed: Yes, on leash

This is one of our top picks for dog-friendly trails near Salt Lake City. Desolation Overlook weaves through beautiful Millcreek Canyon and during the summer season, expect to see abundant wildflowers. Unlike most other trails nearby, the trail leading to Desolation Overlook allows dogs on leash!

If you are looking for solitude, the Desolation Overlook has several off-shoot trails.

Have you hiked any of these trails or do you plan to? Let us know in the comments below!

With two decades of hiking and seven years of van life under her belt, Kristen has dedicated her life to helping people experience the positive effects of nature. As a pioneer in the outdoor blogging space, she founded Bearfoot Theory in 2014 and has since authored more than 350 blog posts about outdoor travel, hiking, camping, and van life. Her work has been featured in National Geographic, Outside Magazine, and Backpacker, and when she’s not on the road, she lives in Park City, Utah with her partner Ryan, their son, and two adventure pups.

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11 Comments

These hikes look absolutely beautiful! Sometimes I wished I lived by Salt Lake City or at least on the West Coast! But for now, New England will do.

Kim http://www.simplylovebirds.com

So many lakes, so many magnificent sunsets and views! Your articles spur my imagination to thinking I could be there, I wish I were there! Hiking in these beautiful areas would be a trip of a lifetime. Thanks so much for sharing your experiences! This surely puts the Salt Lake City area on my bucket list.

We’ve been road tripping the US for 11 months and are just getting to SLC! We will probably be here for a little under a week, look forward to checking out Lake Blanche and/or Cecret. Pfeifferhorn summit is on the top of our list, thanks for the helpful trekking details!

Hello,nice share.

• Pingback: Free Things to do around Salt Lake City, Utah - The Haywire Honey

Hi Kristen, thanks for making this website. It helped me find a great hike in the spare half-day I had while staying in Salt Lake City. (Hiked up to the lower waterfall at Bell Canyon.) Cheers! Keith.

Hi Keith, glad to hear it! That’s a great hike 🙂 Thanks for reaching out.

We are planning to camp at Wasatch Mountain State Park and Deer Creek State Park during the last week of September and the first week of October with our campervan. From the two state parks we plan on accessing and hiking several of the trails in the Wasatch front. Is the last week of September and first week of October a good time to experience the fall colors on trails in the Wasatch front?

Hi Darryl, it’s hard to predict exactly when fall colors will peak in Utah, but typically late-Sept to mid-Oct is a great time to be here for fall foliage. Enjoy your trip!

I am traveling to SLC for work next week and plan to take a day and hike around Secret Lake and Devil’s Castle. I’m pretty pumped!

Enjoy your hike!

19 Jaw-Dropping Hikes In & Near Salt Lake City to Do Before You Die

By Kay Rodriguez

FYI: Some of our posts include affiliate links. When you make a purchase from one of these links, Urban Outdoors may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

Updated September 15, 2022

With rocky mountains, sparkling waterfalls, and stunning forests, Salt Lake City is an outdoor lover’s mecca. Surrounded by the Wasatch Mountains, there are tons of world-class hiking trails with incredible views in less than an hour’s drive from the city center. Needless to say, hiking in Salt Lake City is one of the most popular local activities, and it’s a fantastic way to enjoy the breathtaking scenery nearby (and get great exercise, too!). We created this guide to some of the best hikes in Salt Lake City so you can plan your next epic outdoor adventure!

Easy Hiking in Salt Lake City

Ensign peak.

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 0 miles
• Trail Length: 0.8 miles
• Elevation Gain: 374 feet

Although it’s a short trail, Ensign Peak is one of the quintessential Salt Lake City hikes, famous for its stunning views of the city and the Wasatch Mountains in the distance. You’ll gain a whopping 374 feet in less than half a mile of trail, which is fairly steep but doable as it’s so short. On clear days, you can see out for miles across the tops of buildings, all the way out to faint silhouettes of mountains off in the distance. If you’re looking for a short leg burner with fabulous rewards, the Ensign Peak trail is a great option for hiking in Salt Lake City.

Cecret Lake Trail

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 32 miles/50 minutes
• Trail Length: 1.7 miles
• Elevation Gain: 459 feet

It’s no secret that Cecret Lake is one of the prettiest easy hikes in Salt Lake City! Pronounced like “secret,” Cecret Lake is a small, teal lake located in the mountains surrounding the city. A short, 1.7-mile out-and-back trail will take you up to this lake, which is the perfect spot for an afternoon siesta or a picnic.

While there is significant elevation gain, it’s gradual and definitely doable for any hiker willing to take on the challenge. Surrounded by evergreen trees and often still as glass, this lake boasts one of the prettiest views in the area, and it’s a perfect hike for any experience level.

Willow Lake

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 29 miles/40 minutes
• Trail Length: 2.4 miles
• Elevation Gain: 633 feet

For a spectacular family-friendly trail that offers several mountain views, Willow Heights is a great option. At nearly 3 miles, this easy to moderate trail offers a peaceful walk through very pretty wooded areas and a small lake at the top where you can often spot local wildlife stopping for a sip of water. Along the way, you’ll pass through shaded areas and open alpine meadows that boast striking views of nearby mountaintops.

If you go in the morning or during the week, you can often get the trail to yourself, which is great for enjoying the beauty of the landscape and the solitude of nature.

Donut Falls

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 25 miles/45 minutes
• Trail Length: 3.1 miles
• Elevation Gain: 521 feet

Donut Falls is one of the more unique easy hikes in Salt Lake City, as it takes hikers to a magical little grotto with a waterfall that flows through a circular “donut” hole in the rocks! A short, easy hike through the valley and evergreen forests will bring you to the falls area, which features a small, pebble-lined grotto where the water flows through. Kids love this hike because of the variety of scenery and the interesting waterfall, and it’s a very family-friendly spot for hiking in Salt Lake City.

Rattlesnake Gulch

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 13 miles/20 minutes
• Trail Length: 3.3 miles
• Elevation Gain: 816 feet

If you’re willing to tackle the 816-foot ascent, the Rattlesnake Gulch trail is one of the most rewarding hikes in Salt Lake City. With absolutely breathtaking views of the mountains and the city below, the trail is best done early in the morning or later in the evening, when the sun is low and the sky is painted all kinds of warm colors. The trail mostly wraps around the side of the mountain and is clear of trees, offering great views almost the entire way. And while the 816-foot ascent may seem daunting, it’s fairly gradual and is doable for anyone willing to work for it!

Albion Meadows

• Trail Length: 3.6 miles
• Elevation Gain: 744 feet

The Albion Meadows trail is a scenic walk through the alpine fields and valleys that cut through the mountaintops. As one of the easier trails in the area, this is the perfect hike for beginners or families with kids. All along the way, you’ll get fantastic views of nearby mountains and you’ll even pass by a small, scenic lake. In the spring and summer, wildflowers line the trails and fill the fields with pops of color, which adds to the magical aura of this hike. Note that the wide trails of this hike are not shaded, so a wide brimmed hat and sunscreen are a must if you’re planning to hike during the day.

Moderate Hikes in Salt Lake City

Lake blanche.

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 22 miles/30 minutes
• Trail Length: 6.9 miles
• Elevation Gain: 2,706 feet

Lake Blanche is easily one of the most beloved hikes in Salt Lake City, and for more experienced hikers, this moderate trail offers a fun challenge with amazing views at the top. The trail has it all – forested pathways, alpine meadows, tiny waterfalls, and a scenic mirror lake surrounded by rocky peaks. For a 7-mile hike, that’s a LOT to see!

You can often catch local wildlife, like deer, moose, and birds, along the trail’s edges, especially if you go early in the morning when they’re most active. For photographers, Lake Blanche is a popular photo spot in the area, and you can catch really great light during the early and late hours of the day when the towering Twin Peaks reflect with golden rays into the water. All in all, it’s a magical trail that you have to experience to understand.

Waterfall Canyon

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 35 miles/40 minutes
• Elevation Gain: 1,105 feet

If you combined a towering rock canyon with sparkling waterfalls, Waterfall Canyon is what you’d get. With tons of rocky terrain and some great views of the valley, there’s a reason why Waterfall Canyon is such a beloved place to go hiking in Salt Lake City. The trail begins in a forest, then works its way up to an open canyon where you’ll find the waterfall and plenty of fun scrambling spots. Note that during dry times of year, the waterfall may not be very powerful – the best time to go to see the falls is during the spring or after heavy periods of rain.

Stewart Falls Trail

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 20 miles/20 minutes
• Trail Length: 3.4 miles
• Elevation Gain: 646 feet

For another short waterfall trail that offers beautiful views, Stewart Falls is an excellent choice. This waterfall cascades down a rocky mountain face and is absolutely gorgeous, especially in the spring or after rainfall. On the way up to the falls, you’ll get to see gorgeous views of the valley below and the surrounding mountains, which are especially gorgeous as the trees change colors in the fall. An all-around gorgeous and fun hike, Stewart Falls should definitely be on your list.

The Living Room Trail

• Trail Length: 2.3 miles
• Elevation Gain: 980 feet

One of the most beloved hiking trails in Salt Lake City is the Living Room Trail, which is a short, moderate hike to an excellent viewpoint extending all the way out over the city to the lake. Located in the Red Butte Canyon Research Area, the trail has virtually no tree cover or shade, which means you’ll get excellent views (and a LOT of sun) throughout the entire hike. While this hike is quite steep, it’s definitely doable for moderately experienced hikers who want a challenge. Plus, the views from the top are well worth the effort!

Lake Mary, Martha and Catherine

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 32 miles/44 minutes
• Trail Length: 4.4 miles
• Elevation Gain: 1,243 feet

The trail to Lakes Mary, Martha, and Catherine – also known as Brighton Lakes – is one of the most magnificent and stunning hikes in Salt Lake City. As the name suggests, the trail boasts three shimmering alpine lakes, plus bird’s eye views of them as you continue to make your way up the mountain. Throughout the trail, there’s alternating shade and open meadows, meaning you’ll get plenty of variety as you make the 1,243-foot ascent. For a moderate, half-day hike that’s not too challenging or technical, the Brighton Lakes trail is one of the best there is.

Desolation Lake

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 27 miles/40 minutes (Big Cottonwood Canyon)
• Trail Length: 7.7 miles
• Elevation Gain: 1,988 feet

Another fabulous (and slightly longer) hike to an alpine lake is the Desolation Lake trail, which runs through Big Cottonwood Canyon. Although this trail has an elevation gain of nearly 2,000 feet, it’s a very steady and gradual incline over the 3.8 miles out to the lake. Along the way, you’ll pass through forested areas, next to mountain streams, and through open fields to get to the spectacular, teal Desolation Lake. There are also ample opportunities for seeing moose and other local wildlife if you go early in the morning!

Difficult Hikes Near Salt Lake City

Mount olympus.

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 14 miles/20 minutes
• Trail Length: 8 miles
• Elevation Gain: 4,192 feet

Mount Olympus is one of the quintessential Salt Lake City hikes for experienced hikers, and summits one of the city’s closest mountains. Not for the faint of heart, the trail gains over 4,000 feet of elevation over the course of ~4 miles. However, while the trail is quite strenuous and requires a bit of scrambling, it’s also a fantastic first summit for locals or less experienced hikers to get some more advanced hiking under their belts.

The views from the trail and at the summit are absolutely mind-blowing, and on clear days you can see for miles across the city and across to the other peaks of the Wasatch Mountains. For those who want a fun, full-day challenge that will get your heart pumping, the Mount Olympus is a must for hiking in Salt Lake City.

Neffs Canyon

• Trail Length: 7 miles
• Elevation Gain: 3,559 feet

Stream crossings and steep ascents mark the Neffs Canyon Trail, which is another challenging hike that’s super close to Salt Lake City. This 7-mile trail winds through forests, streams, and alpine meadows to a stellar view of Neffs Canyon and the city down below. Popular with dogs and experienced hikers, this trail is difficult because it’s steep, but there isn’t much scrambling or technical challenge to it. For a leg burner that has lovely views, Neffs Canyon is a local favorite.

Grandeur Peak

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 10 miles/15 minutes
• Trail Length: 6 miles
• Elevation Gain: 2,627 feet

Another favorite summit hike in the city is Grandeur Peak, which towers above the buildings nearby. True to its name, the trail offers magnificent views all over the area. As another summit hike, you’ll get all the perks of hiking in Salt Lake City – steep but fun and challenging trails, alternating shade and sun, and absolutely spectacular views all around. While the trail is difficult because of its elevation gain, it’s actually a fairly gradual incline, making it one of the “easier” difficult hikes on our list. Many locals do this trail often because they love it so much, and with its dreamy mountain views, who wouldn’t?

Bell’s Canyon Trail

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 21 miles/30 minutes (Little Cottonwood Canyon)
• Trail Length: 4.6 miles
• Elevation Gain: 1,453 feet

As the shortest hard hike on our list, don’t be fooled – Bell’s Canyon is equal parts challenging and beautiful. Because it’s so short, you’ll definitely feel the elevation gain a lot more than some of the longer challenging hikes on our list. Along the 4.6 miles of this trail, you’ll find tough inclines, rock scrambling, and uneven terrain. But when you see the incredible waterfalls along the trail and the canyon views, you’ll understand that the reward was definitely worth the effort.

Red Pine Lake

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 31 miles/1 hour
• Elevation Gain: 2,073 feet

As one of two difficult alpine lake hikes on our list, Red Pine Lake is an absolute gem hidden in the Wasatch Mountains. Hiking in Salt Lake City doesn’t get much better than this, with its challenging ascent, gorgeous mountain views (some of the best in the area) and the serene, cool waters of the lake. On the way up, you’ll find rocky terrain with some spectacular streams and small cascades. Oh, and you’ll also find some of the best mountaintop views of Great Salt Lake on the way up, too.

White Pine Lake

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 26 miles/35 minutes
• Trail Length: 10.5 miles
• Elevation Gain: 2,762 feet

Another stellar alpine lake with jaw-dropping views, White Pine Lake is Red Pine’s counterpart and it is well worth the 10.5 miles of hiking required to get there. This trail is much less popular than Red Pine Lake, meaning there’s a good chance you’ll have many parts of the trail to yourself. Along the way, you’ll climb 2,700+ feet and see some absolutely fantastic mountain peak views (similarly beautiful to the ones on Red Pine). If you’re feeling up to it, you can continue on to summit White Baldy, which requires a significant scramble but provides some really amazing views.

Broads Fork Twin Peaks

• Distance from Salt Lake City: 24 miles/30 minutes
• Elevation Gain: 5,285 feet

Possibly the most challenging hike on our list, the Broads Fork Twin Peaks trail is actually a combination of two different trails – Broad Forks and Twin Peaks. If you want to shorten this hike or break it in two, it’s absolutely doable as you can just do these hikes separately. For us, however, a good full-day hike is a must every so often, and the 10.5-mile adventure of the trails combined is a welcome challenge.

Climbing over 5,000 feet of elevation, this hike isn’t for the faint of heart, nor is it suitable for beginners. You’ll hike up to the summit of Twin Peaks (11,303 feet of altitude) and then back the way you came. The trails can be difficult to follow and a good portable GPS (not your phone) is highly recommended so you don’t get lost. After lots of uphill leg burning and scrambling, you’ll reach the Twin Peaks summit and look down on some of the most incredible and rewarding views in the entire Salt Lake City area.

Additional Resources for Hiking Near Salt Lake City

What to pack.

• Breathable hiking clothes – For warmer hikes, you’ll want to wear a sweat-wicking shirt and breathable pants, like these Patagonia hiking shorts for men and women . For cold-weather hikes, we recommend dressing in layers, including merino wool baselayers for men and women , a down puffer jacket for men and women , and a Northface waterproof outer shell for men and women (a must for hiking in Seattle). And don’t forget a pair of the best women’s and men’s hiking socks!
• Trekking poles – You won’t need these for every single hike , but we suggest throwing them in your car just in case. We recommend the Black Diamond Trail Ergo cork trekking poles , which are lightweight, easy to transport, and durable.
• Water bottle – Having water available at all times is a huge must. To limit disposable plastic, we recommend bringing your own refillable water bottle. We’re obsessed with Hydro Flask water bottles because they keep water cold for hours.
• Sunscreen and bug spray – Sweatproof sunscreen and DEET bug spray can help you avoid sunburn and bug bites, two of hiking’s most annoying after-effects. Our favorite kind of sunscreen is Sun Bum , as it is free of harsh chemicals and safe for marine life, including coral reefs.
• A brimmed hat or cap – The sun can be brutal in open hikes, so always pack a brimmed hat or cap for day hikes in the sunshine.
• Emergency blanket and first aid kit – We’d strongly recommend bringing a first aid kit and a lightweight emergency blanket on every hike. Why? Because the unfathomable can happen, and it’s always best to play it safe.
• Durable day pack – A durable day pack is the perfect spot to stash all your hiking gear. While any backpack will do, we recommend the Osprey Tempest 20 or the Talon 22 day packs because they’re comfortable and breathable for long hikes. For more information, check out our best day packs for any terrain guide.

Wondering what exactly you should pack for your next hike? Visit our Complete Day Hiking Packing List for our full list and our top gear recommendations.

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Best Hikes Near Salt Lake City: 6 Awesome Trails Within an Hour of SLC

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Curious as to the best hikes near a classic Western capital city? We’ve rounded up the best hikes within an hour’s drive (or less) of Salt Lake City, Utah.

Utah is home to a plethora of hiking — like, tons. At first thought, I could probably rattle off 20 or 30 hikes throughout the states that I’ve enjoyed over the years. But, most of these hikes — many of your favorites, too — are probably centered in places like Arches, Bryce Canyon, or Canyonlands National Parks, or outdoor havens like Moab or Park City, Utah.

Instead, we are taking the path less traveled (ironically) by looking for the best hikes near the state’s capital. Salt Lake City is the most populous city in the state and home to a huge metropolitan area. Here, you can hit up everything from a large-scale convention to an urban city tour to history museums and, yes, hiking and camping.

Naturally, well, after a bit of sightseeing and brewery hopping, we immediately scoured the area for trails. Here are the best hikes in and near SLC. We’ve listed the hikes in order of mileage, and also helpful info like driving time, amenities, and more.

Best Hikes Near Salt Lake City

Hell canyon trailhead.

Hike #1: Directly north of the city, and basically up a hillside where houses and buildings sit below, this is a great hike and viewpoint in the heart of SLC. Hell Canyon’s trails feature quite a few switchbacks as you climb uphill. While short, it’d be a great hike for families, trail runners, or those looking to see the best views of Salt Lake, especially right when the seasons are changing. (Also, sunsets!)

Hike #2: Look for the Ensign Peak hiking trail at Hell Canyon Trailhead if you want a longer hike and even more views. The Ensign Peak trail climbs all the way up — more gradually than the Hell Canyon hike — to the top of Ensign Peak at 5,417 feet. This trail is 5.8 miles.

Hike #3: Check out nearby Ensign Downs Park, too, for more of an urban hike vibe that features less elevation/climbing, and more nature viewing.

• Miles from downtown SLC: 2.5 mi.
• Driving time: ~10 min.
• Trail mileage: 2.4-2.7 mi. out and back
• Difficulty:  easy/moderate

Rattlesnake Gulch Trail 

Sitting in the shadow of 8,299-foot Grandeur Peak is this awesome SLC trail. Rattlesnake Gulch offers all the best aspects of other hikes in the eastern Salt Lake Valley area, wrapped into one. It’s a shorter distance but moderate terrain, and can quickly be linked up to several other trails to form a loop or longer endeavor.

It’s accessible year-round, offers great wildflower and wildlife viewing, and it’s dog-friendly. And Rattlesnake Gulch isn’t just for hiking — you can run or mountain bike this trail too.

Decide you are hardcore and want to summit the entire Grandeur Peak? You can get to the top from Rattlesnake Gulch, too. (Follow Rattlesnake Gulch Trail to the Pipeline Trail to Grandeur Peak East.) There’s a nice big paved parking lot at this trailhead, though no restroom (just head a few miles down the road to the Grandeur TH to find one).

• Miles from downtown SLC: 12 mi.
• Driving time: ~20 min.
• Trail mileage: 3.4 mi. out and back or loop
• Difficulty: moderate

Red Butte Canyon Trails

The Red Butte Canyon Hiking Area is an amazing and easily accessible outdoor destination that SLC has to offer. A few steps away from the University of Utah, Red Butte offers everything from garden paths, to short tourist overlooks, to challenging singletrack trails — plus steeper and rockier terrain and big summits for those who like a challenge. This is a well-developed area, with parking, water access, and restrooms nearby.

We recommend hiking the Mount Van Cott Trail via the Red Butte Canyon Trail Loop (these trails run together, and you can hike it clockwise or counterclockwise). The trail loop is steep, but rewarding in views.

Mount Van Cott sits at 6,300 feet, so the top portion of the hike can get windy. While at the top, be sure to check out views of the adjacent Red Butte Mountain to the south and the adjoining Twin Peaks to the north.

Plus, you can add on the quick, 1.4-mile jaunt up Red Butte Overlook while you’re in the area. In total, you’ll hike about 6 miles.

• Miles from downtown SLC: 5 mi.
• Driving time: ~18 min.
• Trail mileage: 4.3-mi. loop, 6 mi. out and back

City Creek Canyon Trailhead

This trail weaves through City Creek Canyon and follows City Creek the entire way — 6.5 miles. If you are craving a nice scenic creek walk — maybe with some wildflowers and waterfalls, close proximity to the city, and flexibility in mileage — SLC’s City Creek is for you. This is also an out and back, so you can make the hike however long you want — 3 miles, 4 miles, or the whole thing.

It’s one of the flatter trails on this list, so it’s also good for a big group or family hikes. As you get further into the canyon, you’ll start to get better views of various peaks in the Wasatch Mountains.

• Miles from downtown SLC: 3 mi.
• Trail mileage: 6.5 mi. out and back

Lake Blanche Trail

Lake Blanche is a moderate trail off Big Cottonwood Canyon Road. It’s home to a very scenic trail and has several options for waterfall and lake viewpoints. Climb up along a creek for a bit, and then over a few switchbacks (this trail gains and drops the whole way).

And another note, the amount of elevation puts this hike on the more difficult side. At the top, you’ll find Lake Blanche, along with her sister lakes Lillian and Florence.

This trail is also in the protected Twin Peaks wilderness area, meaning no dogs, and camping and backpacking are permitted.

• Miles from downtown SLC: 20 mi.
• Driving time: ~30 min.
• Trail mileage: 6.8 mi. out and back
• Difficulty: moderate to difficult

Mueller Park Trailhead

Hike #1: Located in Wasatch-Cache National Forest, the Elephant Rock Trail is a must-see if you are spending even just a few days in Salt Lake. The trail is a 6.8- to 7-mile out and back to the Big Rock, and this trail is open to hikers, dogs, and horses.

It’s also got a perfect mix of scenery: a creek, both tree coverage and open vistas, rocky overlooks, and some elevation but not too much. There’s a picnic area and restroom at the trailhead.

Hike #2: If you are a speed-hiker or trail runner looking for more of a challenge, Mueller Park offers the largest mileage hike on our favorites list. You can cover 19 miles hiking or running from the Elephant Rock trail to North Canyon in Mueller Park . It’s not an easy one, with the steepest sections topping out around 20% grades.

This trail option circles and tops out on several prominent peaks, and is also open to mountain biking. (Note: Because it’s also popular with mountain bikers, we recommend hiking on a weekday, or getting out early.)

• Miles from downtown SLC: 14 mi.
• Trail mileage: 7 mi. out and back, or 19 mi. point to point

Next time you are in Utah — we’re talking Salt Lake City and not Moab — be sure to save time for some of these great hikes.

A Guide to Utah's National Parks: Visit 'The Mighty 5'

If Utah could be known for just one thing, it would be its landscape. What used to be a rarely visited desert has now become one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. This is partly due to a campaign known as The Mighty 5. Read more…

Mary Murphy is the Managing Editor of GearJunkie. She has been writing about hiking, running, climbing, camping, skiing, and more for eight years, and has been on staff at GearJunkie since 2019. Prior to that, Mary wrote for 5280 Magazine in Denver while working as an outdoor instructor teaching climbing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and mountain biking. Based in Denver, Colorado, Murphy is an avid hiker, runner, backpacker, skier, yogi, and pack-paddleboarder.

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Family Backpacking Getaways Near Salt Lake City

It’s time to get back to the roots of being outside. The #vanlife craze has transformed the once simple joys of camping into a gear-driven lifestyle of competitive overconsumption. Before you peg me as some bitter luddite who can’t afford a tricked-out adventure van (I am), remember that the best part of enjoying the outdoors is actually being outside. So gather the family, load up the backpacks and head into the hills for an overnight backpacking getaway near Salt Lake City.

“Whoa, whoa, whoa,” you might be saying. “Backpacking with the family sound like a bit of an ordeal.” I won’t say it doesn’t take some strategizing but think about the last trip you took the local park. Between a change of clothes, the snacks, the sunscreen, the blanket, the soccer ball and the water bottles, you’re basically backpacking already. Just add a little character-building sweat equity and get out into the mountains already. With the Wasatch, Uinta and Stansbury Mountains all within striking distance, Salt Lake City is the perfect base camp for a quick overnight hike with the whole family. 

Here are a few of our favorite backpacking spots near Salt Lake City. We have everything from short jaunts perfect for newbies or those schlepping an infant into the backcountry to strenuous hikes into alpine terrain perfect for those with kids who, let's be honest, are probably fitter than we are. Best of all, they're easily done as a simple overnight trip. If it’s your first time backpacking with kids, make things easy on yourself by organizing and packing your gear the day prior to your departure. Wrangling gear while trying to rally the crew for an early start is an exercise in futility. Enjoy the views up there. You’ll earn them.

Testing the Waters

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Willow Lake: Wasatch Mountains (Big Cottonwood Canyon)

Easy: 2.2-mile loop, 636 feet of elevation change

The hike to willow lake is short, but the trail’s steepness packs a serious punch with more than 600 feet of elevation gain in just over a mile. Fortunately, the abbreviated distance makes it easy to push through the tired legs. The trailhead starts right near the Silver Fork Restaurant and heads up Silver Fork to an extremely picturesque lake just up the trail. Camp up near the lake and enjoy the views before heading back down in the morning. Big Cottonwood Canyon is part of the watershed , so no dogs or swimming here. 

Ruth Lake: Uinta Mountains

Easy: 2-mile loop, 262 feet of elevation change

The relatively flat trail up to Ruth Lake makes it a first-time backpacker's dream. The gorgeous loop through wildflower-filled meadows goes around the lake with suitable campsites all along the way. Though the trail can be busy during the day, it will clear out by dusk providing an excellent evening of solitude. Don’t forget to bring swim trunks to cool off with a dip. Swimming and dogs are permitted. 

Stretching Your Legs

Three Divide Lakes Trail: Uinta Mountains

Moderate: 5.4-mile loop, 540 feet of elevation change

The Three Divide Lakes Trail is a bit longer than the previously listed hikes, but its elevation gain over the 5.4-mile loop isn’t severe. You can camp near any of the numerous lakes along the trail, meaning you can make either the first or second day longer, or keep them even. Twin lakes is a perfect place to post up for the night. Swimming and dogs are permitted.

Lake Catherine: Wasatch Mountains (Little Cottonwood Canyon)

Moderate: 4-mile out and back, 1,100 feet of elevation change

The route from the top of Little Cottonwood Canyon to Lake Catherine is short, but steep at over 500 vertical feet per mile. The abundant wildflowers and views of magnificent Wasatch peaks will make the distance pass quickly. The hike may feel strenuous at times, but it’s one of the most accessible routes into the Wasatch's alpine terrain. The Cottonwood Canyons are part of the watershed , so no swimming or dogs are permitted on this hike.

Ibantik Lake: Uinta Mountains

Moderate: 7.7-mile out and back, 1,100 feet of elevation change

The hike to Ibantik Lake has a nice consistent grade, and once you’re up through Notch Pass the crowds dissipate and it feels like you’re deep in the wilderness even though you’re just a few miles from the car. If you have the energy to spare upon reaching the lake, you can scramble to the summit of Notch Mountain before cooling off with a swim in Ibantik Lake. Swimming and dogs are permitted. 

A Hearty Trio

Red Pine Lake: Wasatch Mountains (Little Cottonwood Canyon)

Difficult: 7.5-mile out and back, 2,221 feet of elevation change

Starting from the south side of Little Cottonwood Canyon at the White Pine Trailhead, the trail to Red Pine Lake climbs up the mountain, steepening significantly in the last mile. The push to the top is more than worth the effort once you reach the large alpine lake. Thunder Mountain looms above to the east and the mid-to-late summer wildflower bloom is difficult to beat. Red Pine Lake is part of the watershed , so no dogs or swimming, and remember to camp at least 200 feet from the water’s edge.

Lake Blanche: Wasatch Mountains (Big Cottonwood Canyon)

Difficult: 6.9-mile out and back, 2,700 feet of elevation change

Beginning at the S-Turns in Big Cottonwood Canyon, switchback up through aspen trees and meadows before scrambling up rock and scree below Lake Blanche. Incredible views of the imposing Sundial Peak greet you at the water’s edge. Though the hike is quite popular during the day, especially mornings, people will clear out in the late afternoon and evening. Moose are frequently spotted along the way, so keep your eyes peeled. Don’t join them in the water, however, as Lake Blanche is part of the watershed. No dogs are permitted either.

South Willow Lake Trail: Stansbury Mountains

Difficult: 8-mile out and back, 2,381 feet of elevation change

The Stansbury Mountains in the Deseret Peak Wilderness are an oft-overlooked gem near Salt Lake City. The South Willow Lake Trail winds steeply from the Loop Campground through gorgeous scenery to the lake below the Deseret Peak ridgeline. Like the other routes listed in this section, the hike to South Willow Lake requires some decent effort, but if the kids are experienced hikers it’s nothing they can’t handle. In addition to views of the high mountain cirques, you’ll be treated to panoramas of Tooele Valley and the Great Salt Lake. Dogs are permitted on leash.

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10 Must-Do Hikes Near Salt Lake City

Explore the endless trails along the Wasatch Front.

By: The Outbound Collective + Save to a List

You could easily live in Salt Lake City for decades and only scratch the surface of all the amazing hikes that are right in your own backyard. With a wide range or options, there's something for everyone and you’re never too far from a trailhead. Whether you’re a long-time local, new to town, or just visiting for the first time, check out this list of 10 amazing hikes around Salt Lake City so you don’t miss out on all of the fun that the Wasatch Front has to offer.

1. Willow Lake

2. Ensign Peak

3. White Pine Lake

4. Albion Basin

5. Lake Blanche

6. Cecret Lake

7. Big Cottonwood Canyon’s Hidden Falls

8. Bell Canyon

9. Broad Forks Twin Peaks

10. Desolation Trail to Salt Lake Overlook

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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The best place to find tips on your upcoming hiking trip!

Top 8 Salt Lake City Hiking Groups

Hiking trails near Salt Lake City take hikers above the city skyline, near gorgeous Lakes, along steep mountainous terrain, deep into the gorgeous green forests and so much more. With so much to hike from city to forest to mountain, this attracts a large amount of other hiking enthusiasts. With so many hikers that call Salt Lake City home, also means a lot of hiking groups you can choose from.

Here is a list of the top 8 Salt Lake City hiking groups in the area. Each group has its own goals and focus, so be sure to try out multiple hiking groups to find one that fits you the best! From making friends to hiking the toughest trails, these groups offer a variety of wonderful outdoor experiences:

• Hiking and Nature Club – 1,129 Members
• Wasatch Hiking & Outdoors Group – 14,551 Members
• Wasatch Mountain Club – 5,976 Members
• Explore Wild Utah – 1,849 Members
• Outdoor Thrillseekers – 4,680 Members
• Utah Outdoors – 13,019 Members
• Adventure SLC – 9,023 Members
• SLC Active Ladies! (Ages 25-35) – 142 members

Hiking and Nature Club

Cost to Join: Free Location: Salt Lake City, UT Link: https://www.meetup.com/Hiking-and-Nature-Club/ Description: The Hiking and Nature Club has 1,129 members and consistently meets. They have between two and three hiking events each week that average around 10 attendees per event. This group has had over 98 events in the past with mostly hiking but with biking mixed in.

Wasatch Hiking & Outdoors Group

Cost to Join: Free Location: Salt Lake City, UT Link: https://www.meetup.com/wasatchhiking/ Description: The Wasatch Hiking & Outdoors Group is the largest hiking group in Salt Lake City with over 14,000 members strong. They feature hikes for people of all skill levels, camping trips, road trips, and various social gatherings. Their events take place throughout Wasatch Front which include Salt Lake, Davis, Weber, and Utah counties. In the past they have hosted over 948 events with events on a weekly basis.

Wasatch Mountain Club

Cost to Join: Free Location: Salt Lake City, UT Link: https://www.meetup.com/Wasatch-Mountain-Club/ Description: The Wasatch Mountain Club is also a large club with over 5,976 members. This group focuses on safe participation and wilderness preservation throughout the Wasatch Mountains and beyond. They have hiking, backpacking, camping, canyoneering, biking, ice climbing, snowshoeing, backcountry skiing, and so much more. What doesn’t this group do? This group typically has one or two events scheduled each month.

Explore Wild Utah

Cost to Join: Free Location: Salt Lake City, UT Link: https://www.meetup.com/explore-wild-utah/ Description: Explore Wild Utah has 1,849 members and wants to bring people together who love the great outdoors. They hike all over the place from cities, mountains, and deserts. They also have trips for biking, canyoneering, backpacking, and climbing. They typically have one event each month.

Outdoor Thrillseekers

Cost to Join: Free Location: Salt Lake City, UT Link: https://www.meetup.com/outdoorthrillseekers/ Description: Outdoor Thrillseekers is a group for those that want exciting outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, snowshoeing, white water rafting, kayaking, canyoneering, tubing, skiing, snowboarding, camping, backpacking, and so many other events. This group typically hosts two events a month.

Utah Outdoors

Cost to Join: Free Location: Salt Lake City, UT Link: https://www.meetup.com/utahoutdoors/ Description: Utah Outdoors is the second largest group with more than 13,000 members. Their goals are to explore the canyons, deserts, and mountains of Utah and nearby states. They are focused on adventure, community, and education. They have had over 3,376 events in the past and host multiple events a week.

Adventure SLC

Cost to Join: Free Location: Sandy, UT Link: https://www.meetup.com/AdventureSLC/ Description: Adventure SLC is a group for the casual to the extreme. Their goal is to get like minded people together into nature and give back to the cause. They have 9,023 members and have had more then 950 events in the past. They typically have one event a week.

SLC Active Ladies! (Ages 25-35)

Cost to Join: Free Location: Salt Lake City, UT Link:  https://www.meetup.com/SLC-Girls-Workout-Group/ Description: SLC Active Ladies is a group that focuses on working out, hiking, mountain biking, backpacking and more for women between 25-35. They have had 30 events in the past with one event each month.

Why should you join a Salt Lake City hiking group?

Discover New Trails

If you are new to Salt Lake City or you are getting started with hiking, then it can be overwhelming with the number of trails to choose from. By joining a hiking group you can narrow down your options and even discover new trails that you might have otherwise missed. Local hikers will show you the true hiking gems that may not be listed on blogs or websites.

Build a Routine

If you are looking to build a hiking routine and are trying to find a consistent group to hike with then joining a Salt Lake City hiking group is a great idea. There are many groups that meet on a weekly basis and even some that meet multiple times a week. This is a great way to build a consistent hiking routine. By hiking consistently you will build up endurance for your hikes and be able to hike even more trails!

Go Beyond Your Comfort Zone

Another great reason to consider joining a local hiking group is to go beyond your comfort zone. If you are used to local or shorter hikes there are groups that hike longer and more challenging hikes. By hiking these more challenging hikes with others you can get assistance and tips from other more experienced hikers. Some hiking groups also plan trips out of town that may be new to you, which is another great opportunity that hiking groups provide.

3 things to consider when joining a Salt Lake City hiking group

Where do they meet?

A key consideration when picking a hiking group is to find out where their past hikes have been and where their upcoming hikes are. You don’t want try to join a hiking group that meets on the north side of the 80 or the opposite end of the 215. By finding out where they meet you can choose a group that meets at a location that is convenient for you so you are more likely to show up!

How often do they meet?

The next key consideration is to find out how often the hiking group meets up. If you are looking for a more consistent group, then find groups that meetup on a weekly basis. There are some groups that only have events once a month or once every few months, so keep this in mind when looking for groups.

Where do most of their hikes take place?

Another key consideration to think about is where do their hikes take place. Are the hikes more local and thus easier to show up to or are they scheduled to have more out of town hikes that require a one or two hour drive. Different groups focus on different areas, so be sure to find out where their past and upcoming hikes will take place.

Salt Lake City hiking is absolutely wonderful taking you from local urban hikes, up to the shores of gorgeous blue lakes, into the deep green forests, and along the ridges of massive peaks. By joining hiking groups you can share the views and experiences of all of these fantastic trails.

All of these groups provide a wonderful experience with shared hiking and will help you meet your individual goals whether it be to hike consistently, go on epic out of town trips, or to find groups that will push you to the limit!

The Top 6 Salt Lake City hiking trails with the best views

One of the perks of traveling to Salt Lake City is the number of outdoor activities you can have a go at, and hiking is no exception. We have put together the 6 Best Salt Lake City hiking trails with breath-taking views for you to enjoy when you visit.

Salt Lake City and its surrounding areas aren’t short on natural beauty. Shadowed by the impressive Wasatch Mountains, this bustling city is full of world-class walking and hiking trails, just waiting to be explored.

From the bubbling waterfall of Donut Falls to the breath-taking scenery of Cecret Lake, we’ve put together a list of the Salt Lake City hiking trails that are the best of the best. Whether you’re a hiking beginner or you’ve been doing it for a while, these trails are guaranteed to leave you wanting to return as soon as possible.

When To Go Hiking In Salt Lake City

As Utah can receive snow in the winter months of the year, normally November to March, the best time for hiking in Salt Lake City is best in spring or Autumn (fall). In the springtime you will get to see fast flowing waterfalls, and the beautiful flowers coming into colour. In the autumn time you will get the stunning red and orange colours on the leaves throughout the trees. At lower elevations during summertime, hiking can become incredibly hot, so make sure you are prepared for you hike.

The Top Salt Lake City Hiking Trails

1. ensign peak.

Difficulty: easy & manageable Distance: 1.8 miles Duration: 30-minute return

One of the easiest and most convenient hikes to get to on this list, Ensign Peak can be accessed from downtown Salt Lake City, just one mile north of the State Capitol Building. Where this trail lacks in length, it makes up for in beauty with the hike taking you past expansive natural parkland and fascinating wildlife.

While this peak is relatively steep at 374 feet, the views of the city and surrounding mountain ranges (especially at sunrise or sunset) are more than worth the short 20-minute walk, making it one of the best Salt Lake City hiking trails.

2. Cecret Lake

Difficulty: easy & manageable Distance: 1.7 miles Duration: 30-minute return

Pronounced ‘see-cret’, this stunning hiking trail, located about 32 miles from the Salt Lake City center, is anything but. Walked by thousands of travellers every year, the Cecret Lake trail leads you to a small but no less breath-taking lake that’s teal in colour and hard to forget.

Regardless of whether you’re an experienced hiker or just starting out, this hike will have you exploring Salt Lake City’s natural parkland in a gradual way that’s easy to manage. With evergreen trees, a meadow full of wildflowers, and native wildlife on full display, Cecret Lake offers one of the best views going ‘round.

3. Bell’s Canyon Trail

Difficulty: moderate – hard Distance: 4.6 miles Duration: 1.5 hours return

While this hike may be difficult with rough terrain, rock scrambling, and a tough incline in some areas, the view when you get to the waterfall will be well and truly worth it. The Bell’s Canyon trail takes you to the reservoir with less tree coverage than some of the other hikes, before leading you up to enjoy the best canyon views ever.

As if that wasn’t good enough, the Bell’s Canyon Waterfall more than makes up for the sweat and effort you put in along the way with the natural landmark standing at 30 feet tall.

4. Donut Falls

Difficulty: easy & manageable Distance: 3.1 miles Duration: 1-hour return

The Donut Falls trail is like something straight out of a fairy-tale. Make your way through valleys filled with lush trees and thick scrubs before getting to the main event, the waterfall. Hidden away in a pebble-lined grotto that could’ve been from a scene in Avatar , the magnificent waterfall is bound to captivate not only you but the whole family.

Getting its name due to water flowing through a uniquely, circle-shaped rock formation, this hiking trail is pretty darn magical and well worth walking the 3 miles to get there.

5. The Living Room Hike

Difficulty: moderate Distance: 2.3 miles Duration: 45-minute return

Perfect if you want a bit more of a challenge, the Living Room Hike is fairly steep with an elevation gain of 980 feet but believe us when we tell you that you want to experience the view from the top.

This hike is not covered by shade of any kind which is both good and bad as it means that you’ll have uninterrupted views of your surroundings but no protection from the sun so make sure you pack sunscreen with you. Once you get to the couch-shaped and loveseat-like rock formations at the top, you’ll soon see that the city to lake views were well worth breaking a sweat for.  

6. Mount Olympus

Difficulty: moderate – difficult Distance: 8 miles Duration: 2 hours, 40 minutes return

Time to get your blood flowing and your adrenaline pumping with one of the best Salt Lake City hiking trails for more experienced hikers. With an elevation of a whopping 4,000 feet (prepare to feel the quad-burn), Mount Olympus offers mind-blowing views of the whole city and surrounding mountain ranges from the summit. While it might be a hard slog to get up there with the trail being relatively unshaded, standing at the top might just be one of the most rewarding things you’ve ever done.

Whether you prefer to explore crystal-clear lakes or marvel at gushing waterfalls, the hikes of Salt Lake City have a little something for everyone and make for the greatest outdoor adventure.

EXPLORE SALT LAKE CITY’S HIKING TRAILS FOR YOURSELF ON OUR MOAB ADVENTURE TOUR

Feeling inspired?

Kate Gazzard

When I was 11, my parents asked me whether I wanted a pool for the house or a trip to Fiji. I chose Fiji, and I've made travelling as much as I can a priority ever since.

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5 Awesome Alpine Lake Hikes Near Salt Lake City

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my full disclaimer here.  

The hiking near Salt Lake City is incredible, and when temperatures rise to above 100°F in the Summer months, it’s nice to escape to the mountains. These are some of the most popular alpine lake hikes near Salt Lake City that are definitely worth the hike!

Best Lake Hikes Near Salt Lake City, Utah

Before we dive into the list, there are a few things to note.

First, these alpine lakes feed into the Salt Lake City watershed, so swimming is not allowed in any of these lakes, and no dogs are allowed on these trails either.

Second, moose sightings are common on these hikes. Do not approach them.

Check out the map below to see where all the alpine lake hikes are relative to Salt Lake City:

1. White Pine Lake

• Distance: 10 miles round trip
• Elevation Gain: 2,600 feet
• Difficulty: moderate
• Trailhead: White Pine Trailhead
• Canyon: Little Cottonwood Canyon

White Pine Lake is my favorite alpine lake in Little Cottonwood Canyon. Not only is it a beautiful hike, but it’s also the least crowded hike on this list.

While the hike isn’t too crowded, the White Pine Trailhead is the start of four different hikes, so there’s a lot going on at the trailhead.

At the trailhead, there’s a pit toilet and plenty of parking options on the side of the road if the parking lot is full.

Trail Info:

The trail is very wide and easy to follow, but a GPS is always recommended.

After about 1 mile, the trail splits. Make sure you follow signs for White Pine Lake. The trail to Red Pine Lake and Gloria Falls are also at this junction.

The views on this trail are spectacular. When you get down to the lake, you can walk to the other side and get a really great view of both the lake and the mountain you hiked up.

I actually did this hike as a 1-night backpacking trip. It was so much fun to spend the night there and enjoy the lake even more.

2. Red Pine Lake

• Distance: 6.5 miles round trip
• Elevation Gain: 2,000 feet
• Difficulty: moderate to difficult

I’ve done this hike a handful of times in all different seasons! It’s shorter than White Pine Lake mentioned above, but in my opinion, the trail is a little more difficult.

The trail is easy to follow, but a GPS is always recommended.

After about 1 mile, the trail splits. Make sure you follow signs for Red Pine Lake. The trail to White Pine Lake and Gloria Falls are also at this junction.

Sometimes this lake can be badly drained in August and September, but it’s still a beautiful hike.

3. Lake Blanche

• Distance: 7 miles round trip
• Elevation Gain: 2,700 feet
• Trailhead: Mill B South Fork Trailhead
• Canyon: Big Cottonwood Canyon

Lake Blanche is the first hike I did when I moved to Utah years ago, and it still remains one of my favorites.

Once you get to the top, you’ll see Lake Blanche, beautiful red rock, a view of the Wasatch Range, and Sundial Peak (pictured above) .

There’s a lot to look at and explore up at the lake, so make sure to leave some time to relax at the top!

The trailhead is about 4.4 miles up Big Cottonwood canyon. If you’re driving up the canyon, the trailhead will be on your right. There’s a small parking lot with pit toilets and overflow parking along the road.

This is an incredibly popular day hike, especially on the weekends. The trailhead is always packed.

The trail is easy to follow, but a GPS is always recommended. This is a pretty steep trail just about the entire way. After all, you’re hiking 2,700 feet in about 3.5 miles.

Towards the top, there’s a little bit of rock scrambling. I’ve seen moose on this hike multiple times! If you get lucky, you might even see one in the lake when you get to the top.

4. Willow Lake

• Distance: about 1.5 miles round trip to the lake
• Elevation Gain: 570 feet
• Difficulty: easy to moderate
• Trailhead: Willow Lake Trailhead

If you’re looking for a short alpine lake hike near Salt Lake City, then Willow Lake is for you!

There are a lot of Aspen trees on this hike making this an incredible trail if you want to see the changing leaves in the Fall. As you see in the photo above, I’ve also seen moose up there a couple of times!

The parking for this trail is along the road. There is no parking lot and no pit toilets at this trailhead.

The trailhead can be hard to spot. Drive up Big Cottonwood Canyon for about 11.5 miles and the trailhead will be on your left, shortly after you pass Canyon Vacation Rentals, also on your left.

Once you start the hike, you’ll quickly come to a fork in the trail. Both trails will take you to the lake. I think going left is a slightly more direct and less steep option, but there are a couple of small stream crossings.

Going right is slightly steeper, but there are no stream crossings.

When the trail levels out and opens up, you’re close to the lake. The trail is easy to follow, but a GPS is always recommended.

It is about 0.7 miles from the road up to the lake. At that point, you can choose to turn around and hike back the way you came.

If you want to make the hike a little bit longer, you can continue to hike around the lake and then back down to the road making it a lollipop-shaped hiking route. This would add an additional 0.6 miles to the hike.

5. Lake Mary, Martha, and Catherine

• Distance (NOT roundtrip) : 1 mile to Lake Mary, 1.5 miles to Lake Martha, 2 miles to Lake Catherine
• Elevation Gain: 700 feet to Lake Mary, 900 feet to Lake Martha, 1,200 feet to Lake Catherine
• Trailhead: Brighton Lakes Trail

This is a nice hike because you can go as far as you want. See just one lake, or see all three!

Lake Mary and Lake Martha are both stocked with trout if you want to fish while you’re there.

This trail starts at Brighton Ski Resort under the Majestic Lift line and there is plenty of parking.

The hike begins with a steady incline up the ski mountain. After about 0.8 miles, you’ll reach the junction for Dog Lake – a nice and quick detour if you want to add another lake to this hike!

After about 1.0 mile on the trail and a steady uphill, you’ll reach Lake Mary, the biggest of the three lakes on this hike.

If you want to continue, Lake Martha is next, and finally Lake Catherine. The views are awesome the entire way. If you want, you can hike the loop around Lake Catherine and back down the way you came.

There are lots of forks in the trail along the way, so make sure you’re prepared to navigate.

Ready to Hit the Trails?

That’s the rundown of my favorite alpine lake hikes near Salt Lake City!

Although these hikes are easy to access and close to a major city, I’m always so surprised by how remote they feel.

Looking for even more awesome hikes near Salt Lake City? Then check out my guide to all the best Millcreek Canyon hiking next!

Related Hiking Blog Posts:

• Hiking Clothes 101: What to Wear on a Hike
• 5 Ways to Stay Cool While Hiking in the Heat
• My Day Hiking Essentials (What I Pack)

If you have any questions, just comment below!

Amanda is a Utah-based adventurer with a major love for fresh sage, slot canyons, and dutch oven brownies! If you’ve come to learn about camp cooking, hiking, and USA travel, you’re in the right place.

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Love this article. Already knew about all of them but hoping to tackle White Pine and Red Pine this summer!

IG @thenimitpatel

Those are definitely some of my favorites! Enjoy!

THE 10 BEST Salt Lake City Hiking Trails

Hiking trails in salt lake city.

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• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. City Creek Canyon

2. Lake Blanche Trail

3. Pony Express National Historic Trail

4. Bonneville Shoreline Trail

5. The Living Room Trail

6. Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail

7. Mount Olympus Trail

8. Grandeur Peak Trail

9. Rattlesnake Gulch Trail

10. Neff's Canyon Trail

11. California National Historic Trail

12. Dog Lake Trail

13. Wasatch Crest Trail

14. Mill B North Fork Trail

What travelers are saying

• Great Salt Lake Wildlife and Sunset Experience
• Great Salt Lake Guided Backcountry Camping
• 4-Day Small Group Tour: Yellowstone and Tetons Camping from Salt Lake City
• Pick Your Park: Private Day Tour From Salt Lake City
• Meditation in the Mountains of Utah
• Lake Blanche Trail
• City Creek Canyon
• The Living Room Trail
• Mount Olympus Trail
• Grandeur Peak Trail
• Pony Express National Historic Trail

20 Amazing Salt Lake City Hikes For Kids

This post may contain affiliate links where we earn from qualifying purchases. As an amazon associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Find out more in our disclosure .

Utah is easily on of the most incredible places for hiking on earth. With its combination of impressive desert canyons, jagged mountains, and wide open valleys, Utah feels like it was created just with outdoor adventure in mind. There are thousands of winding trails, hikes, and treks to explore, and still, some of the best hikes for kids are located in Salt Lake City.

Salt Lake has such an incredibly unique location that allows you to be right in the city and only a short 10-15 minute drive to get into the mountains with lots of great hikes for kids in Salt Lake. Between the surrounding foothills, several major canyons that are packed with trails, and so many urban nature areas, there are plenty of easy hikes for kids in Salt Lake City.  

ALSO READ: 14 Amazing Weekend Adventures From Salt Lake City and our Best Day Trips From Salt Lake

• What to take when hiking with kids

When we’re out hiking in the Wasatch Mountains, there are 3 things that I absolutely NEVER hike without.  The first is a first-aid kit ( this one is great because it also has some survival equipment in it, but is still small), and lots of healthy hiking snacks for kids (I usually take twice as much food as they would eat at home).  The last is lots of water (especially in the summer.  My favorite water bottle is this one that has never leaked , but my kids really love their hydration packs (and they drink a lot more with them than water bottles – win!).  We also make sure that our kids are wearing good hiking shoes (or hiking sandals for kids ) when we hit the trail so that they can go farther and whine less!

Aside from that, it just depends on the hike.  If it’s going to be rainy, we pack our packable rain jackets ( these kids rain jackets are the best quality we’ve found and last through multiple kids).  If we are in bear territory, I never leave home without my bear spray , especially after my run in with a growling bear last year in Big Sky Montana.  

To help you find the right hiking spot for your family, we’ve compiled a list of the 20 best kid-friendly hikes in Salt Lake City Utah to explore. Before you hit the trail, make sure that you check out our 20 tips to get kids hiking without WHINING!

Best Salt Lake City Hikes With Kids

Lisa falls – best salt lake hike with toddlers, bells canyon reservoir, miller park loop.

• Best Long Hike For Kids in Salt Lake CityCity Creek Canyon Salt Lake Hike

Ensign Peak

Rattlesnake loop, great flume trail, barrier free trail, quail hollow trail, best big cottonwood canyon hikes with kids, donut falls most popular hike with kids in salt lake city, silver loop lake, lake solitude, lake mary trail, hidden falls, best hike with kids in little cottonwood canyon, cecret lake.

• Best Hot Spring Hike Near Salt Lake City5th Water Hot Springs

Best Hikes With Kids North of Salt Lake City

Waterfall canyon, holbrook canyon, tick safety when hiking with kids in salt lake.

Hiking with kids in Salt Lake City is a fantastic experience that can bring your family closer together while enjoying the great outdoors. There are numerous trails in and around the city that are perfect for all ages and skill levels, making it easy to find a hike that suits your family’s needs. We’re sharing some of the best Salt Lake City hikes for kids below.

Location: Sandy Distance: 0.3 miles Difficulty: Easy

At an easy-walkable length and with an elevation of 128 feet, hikes don’t get much more kid-friendly than Lisa Falls. This trail is perfect for younger kids who’ll enjoy the glistening stream to the side of the path as you ascend the relatively small canyon. Overall, I think it’s one of the best easy hikes Utah has to offer. And after all their hard work, there’s a reward at the end! Not only will the whole family get to enjoy the picturesque falls, but there’s also a pool at the bottom where kids can play to their heart’s content.  This is a great hike for toddlers in Salt Lake. If you’re looking for easy hikes in Salt Lake City, this is a great option.

Location: Sandy Distance: ¾ miles Difficulty: Easy

This trail is one of the best easy hikes near Salt Lake City and is full of opportunities for fun and wild adventure. With its huge climbable boulders and catch & release lakes – this 20-minute hike can turn into an excitement- packed family day out! There’s plenty of parking and toilet facilities available all year round.

Upon scaling the ridge you’ll be met with the full view of the picturesque lake in this easy hike in Salt Lake.

Location: Salt Lake City Distance: 0.9 Difficulty: Easy

Another one of the great hikes around Salt Lake City, the Miller Park Loop is surprisingly unfrequented despite its gorgeous greenery and magical feel. At just under 1 mile in length and with barely any elevation gain, this Salt Lake hiking spot for kids offers all of the beauty of a classic hike without breaking into a sweat. The entire length of the trek is accompanied by a river and at times you’ll be treated to a cave-like experience as the tree’s leaves shade you from the sun. If you want to go hiking near Salt Lake City, but don’t have a lot of time to spend, head to Miller Park. If you’re looking for an easy Salt Lake City hike that you can do quickly, this is a great option.

Dogs are even allowed on this trail but must be kept on the lead at all times.

Best Long Hike For Kids in Salt Lake City City Creek Canyon Salt Lake Hike

Location: Salt Lake City Distance: 5.9 Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

Unique to this list of Salt Lake City hiking trails, the City Creek Canyon is a “there and back” trek meaning that your kids will be able to re-explore anything that caught their attention the first time around. And from bird watching to river gazing, there’s plenty to keep them occupied. There are also mountain bikes available for the older kids to enjoy.

Keep in mind that this hike is around 6 miles with average elevation gain, so it might not be suitable for the less experienced hiker or younger kids, but we still consider it one of the best hikes around Salt Lake City.  

This hike is right outside of Salt Lake so it’s a perfect hike for families who live in downtown SLC or in the Avenues. 

Location: Salt Lake City Distance: 0.8 miles Difficulty: Easy

Easily one of the shortest and least-demanding treks on the list, this “there and back hike” is perfect for waddling toddlers and offers plenty of activities year-round to keep the older kids occupied. Hike up to the W for West High, where they used to burn a bonfire in the shape of a W after big events at the high school.  

There is no shade here at all, so plan on going early morning or in the evening.  Dogs are even welcome along this trek, but as expected, they must be kept on a leash to help keep this one of the best hikes near Salt Lake. This is the best Salt Lake hike on a cloudy day.

Location: Salt Lake City Distance: 3.4 miles Difficulty: Moderate

This kid friendly hiking trail near Salt Lake is perfect for adventurous little ones with its diverse range of forestry, wildflowers, and wildlife. There’s even a fast-flowing river that runs along a section of the trail so be sure to enjoy while holding any little one’s hands! At a length of 3 miles with a moderate elevation, the Rattlesnake loop is perhaps more suited to older toddlers or kids hiking around Salt Lake City.

Location: Salt Lake City  Distance: 1.2 miles  Difficulty: Easy 

The is another one of the great hikes near Salt Lake City and it’s also a really kid frienly Utah hiking trail. The ridge of the Great Flume Trail runs above a road which families often stop to watch as kids point in awe at the “ant cars” passing by. Not limited to this, there’s plenty more to stir up imagination such as the “cave” at the end of the trail or the river along the way.

Location: Sandy  Distance: 1 mile  Difficulty: Easy 

This trail is perfect if you’re introducing your kids to hiking for the first time in Salt Lake. The Barrier Free Trail is perfect for any skill set and is also considered stroller friendly. However, there’s still plenty to do with birdwatching, wildlife, flowers, picturesque views and even skiing to enjoy and take part in!

Location: Sandy Distance: 2.3 miles Difficulty: Easy 

This is a moderately trafficked trail that features a river and is suitable for all skill levels. This hiking spot is primarily used for nature trips and family outings. Snowshoeing is an available-year-round activity to keep the older kids occupied.

You might even spot an animal or two on your way around the loop-trail and you’re definitely guaranteed to sight some interesting birds or bugs.

Location: Salt Lake City  Distance: 2.5 miles  Difficulty: moderate 

This Salt Lake City kid friendly hike is suitable for all skill levels. Just some of the features of this hiking spot are lakes, rivers, and endless greenery. However, the best months to visit this trail are between May and September as that’s when the flowers, birds, and other wildlife are liveliest.

Have we missed any trails? These are our favorite kid-friendly hiking trails in Salt Lake City, but if you have others that you love, please comment below! These are spots where you can create life-long memories and perhaps even spark a love of hiking in your kids. So, why not rally the troops and get hiking?

Big Cottonwood Canyon is one of our favorite places to hike in Salt Lake with kids since it has a huge variety of trails, yet isn’t as steep as neighboring Little Cottonwood Canyon. Thanks to the ski areas of Solitude and Brighton, there are a few large parking areas to make trails more accessible as well as many different trailheads. For more details, read our full article about Easy Hikes for kids in Big Cottonwood Canyon .

Location: Big Cottonwood Canyon Distance: 3 miles Difficulty: Easy Best easy hike in Big Cottonwood Canyon

Donut falls is one of the top Salt Lake City hikes and is where many Utah kids and teens start their love affair with the outdoors. Donut Falls is one of the most popular hikes in Salt Lake City for families.  Especially popular among youth groups and families, this spectacular trek has something for everyone. It’s suitable for all ages with its steady slope and clear passage but what truly sells this hike is its diversity. From small stream crossings and boulders to climb on, right up to the amazing donut falls at the end of the trail.  This is the best easy hike in Big Cottonwood Canyon and is in close proximity to Solitude resort and Brighton skiing if you head there in the winter months.

Though the trek is short, be sure to bring along bottles of water and snacks for everyone. This Salt Lake hiking trail is particularly crowded during the Summer months when temperatures can reach up to 90F.  There’s a pit toilet at the trailhead, though the parking lot fills early, especially on weekends so plan on either coming early or late in the day. Donut Falls is one of the best kid friendly hikes Salt Lake City has to offer.

On hot days, we always have our kids hike Donut Falls in outdoor sandals (or sturdy water shoes ) since they always want to splash and play along the way.

Location: Big Cottonwood Canyon Distance: 0.9 miles  Difficulty: Easy 

Close to shops, toilets, and other necessary facilities, a family trip to Lake Solitude can easily turn into a family day out. It’s more of a woodsy stroll around a lake than a hike which makes it perfect for young kids and even strollers. The incredible range of wildflowers, wildlife, greenery, and views that surround this trek mean that every visit is a nature trip!  The lake is situated at the Solitude Nordic Center right between the Solitude and Brighton base areas.

Location: Solitude Resort Distance: 3.3 miles  Difficulty: Moderate  

There are moose and wildflowers abound on this family-friendly hiking trail near Salt Lake.  These activities are complemented by the awe-inspiring scenery and greenery along the trail. And as the name would suggest, there’s even a lake included! This is a really easy hike if you ride the chairlift up from Solitude Ski Resort, since the lake is only about .4 miles from the top of the lift. This is a great option if you are a Solitude or IKON season pass holder.

Location: Brighton Ski Resort Distance: 2.6 miles  Difficulty: Moderate 

With a bit of light elevation climbing at the start, this trail soon evens out and opens up to show it’s an incredibly varied landscape. Located at Brighton ski area, this is a perfect Salt Lake hike for families looking to escape the city for the day.  With rocky patches, the possibility of snow, eclectic wildlife, and forestry on offer – boredom is not a possibility. With a treasure trove of activities to be discovered, this trail does not stop giving! 

Location: Mounthaven, Big Cottonwood Canyon Distance: 0.3 miles  Difficulty: Beginner 

Accessible all-year-round and suitable for all skill levels – this is the perfect place to introduce your kids to the world of hiking. But don’t worry, there’s not a lot of hiking involved, rather a leisurely stroll among nature with the reward of a scenic waterfall at the end. This trail is never too crowded and offers plenty of wildlife, rocky landscape, and even a protected mine for your kids to explore.

Home to both Snowbird and Alta ski areas, Little Cottonwood Canyon is packed full of incredibly steep and jagged mountains. Mountain goats are often spotted in the summer and the wildflowers are incredible here in July. For more suggestions, check out our full article about Easy Little Cottonwood Hikes with Kids .

Location: Alta Distance: 1.8 miles Difficulty: Easy/moderate 

Cecret lake is a ‘nature-lover’s’ haven and is one of the top Utah kid friendly hikes in Little Cottonwood Canyon. If your little ones love looking at moose, bugs, insects, and any other creature imaginable – this is the place for them! But don’t worry, it’s not a jungle. Lined with rolling meadows that are home to large boulders, and the odd bench; nature stays tucked away (unless you go looking for it!)  In July and August, the wildflowers are absolutely amazing, so make sure to plan a trip during that time of year.  

Once everyone’s done exploring the wonders of the trail, you can make your way towards the lake. This is the perfect spot for a calm lunch or bonding session that can last a whole day! This is one of the best easy hikes in Salt Lake County.

Best Hot Spring Hike Near Salt Lake City 5th Water Hot Springs

Location: Spanish Fork Distance: 2.5 miles Difficulty: Moderate

This beautiful Salt Lake City area hike offers an exciting day out for all the family. This hike is farther out than other Salt Lake City hiking trails, but is one of the closest hot springs to Salt Lake (and easily the most impressive).  With a number of pools to bathe in along the way, it’s a chance to get everyone into their bathing suits for an afternoon of watery fun! Be sure to hold onto your little one’s hands during more dangerous parts of this trail (near the river) and wear plenty of sunscreen as there is little shade available.  This hike is great year round, and soaking in the hot springs is especially fun in the snow!

Location: Ogden, Utah Distance: 2.5 miles Difficulty: Moderate

Located in Ogden, if you’re looking for kid friendly hikes in Utah where you can bring a dog, this dog-friendly trail is suitable for two and four-legged members of the family alike. This hiking spot is famous for its breathtaking view of the 200ft waterfall towards the end of the canyon. The slightly steep slope of the canyon involves doing some extra footwork but it’s still very much doable for kids and will be a leisurely climb for adults.

Location: Bountiful Distance: 5.5 miles Difficulty: Moderate

This incredible hike can be a bit turbulent in parts so might be suited to older more stable-on-their-feet kids. There’s plenty to see and do including following the creek that covers the whole length of the trail. However, the main attractions of this hiking spot are its many streams and rustic bridges.

Though they add a touch of action to the trail, the bridges can be quite wobbly so be sure to keep an eye on your kids while crossing. Just another thing to keep an eye out for the diverging routes at the start of the trail.   Located only about 10 minutes north of Salt Lake, this Davis County hike is perfect for kids.

Location: North Salt Lake City  Distance: 1 mile or 2.5 miles  Difficulty: Easy/moderate

Located in North Salt Lake City , this is one of the most easily accessed of the kid friendly hikes in Utah. This Salt Lake hike has a connected feel that’s perfect for families with young kids – you’re never too far away from civilization! However, the wonderful wildflowers and beautiful greenery have a way of making you forget that.

This is an exciting little looped size trail for all the family and has different sized loops depending on how long you want to be on your feet for. Along the larger loop, you can catch a glimpse of the bustling City. But worry not, there’s a playground at the end of both trail loops which means lots of fun for the kids and a chance for the adults to take a rest!  

Ticks can be a concern for hikers near Salt Lake City, especially when hiking with children, as ticks can carry diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and others. Here are some tips for tick safety while hiking with kids:

Wear appropriate clothing when hiking in Salt Lake. When hiking with kids, it is important to dress them in light-colored clothing that covers their arms and legs. Tuck pants into socks or boots, and consider using insect repellent that contains DEET on exposed skin. Consider treating clothing with permethrin spray to deter ticks as well.

Check for ticks frequently when hiking with kids. Be sure to check your child and yourself for ticks every few hours, paying particular attention to areas like the scalp, behind the ears, and in the groin area. If you find a tick, remove it immediately using tweezers. It takes ticks a few hours to attach to you, so schedule a few quick tick checks into your day. Ticks are commonly found in grassy and wooded areas, so it is best to stay on marked trails and avoid wandering off into tall grass or bushes.

Clean up well after hiking to get rid of ticks! Once you’ve finished your hike, be sure to take a shower and thoroughly check your child for ticks again. Washing your clothes in hot water and drying them on high heat can also help to kill any ticks that may have hitched a ride. We most commonly see ticks on the kids socks, and shirt collars.

Hi, I’m Jessica, a mom of 5 kids and married to my favorite adventure partner. I love to bike, ski, camp and hike. We've visited over 40 countries with our kids, but are equally happy on the road as we are exploring our home state of Utah.

13 Insanely Cool Day Trips From Salt Lake City

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The best day trips from Salt Lake City

Mar 9, 2021 • 9 min read

TTRHT1 Aerial view of Spiral Jetty against blue sky during sunny day

It's no wonder that Salt Lake City has exploded in popularity in recent years – it's nearly as synonymous with outdoor recreation as it is with the Mormon faith. With its close proximity to the unique sodium chloride formations to the east, the Wasatch Mountains to the west, and countless hiking, biking, skiing, and even spelunking opportunities within two hours drive, it's no wonder the SLC metro is growing. 

From herds of wild bison to sprawling sculptures that fit right into Utah 's epic landscapes to family-friendly old west history to ski towns that offer thrills and frills, there's a little something for everyone. And the best part of all is that you can fit each of those adventures into a quick there-and-back-again if you're short on time. We narrowed it down to the top ten day trips from Salt Lake City.

1. Antelope Island State Park

The Great Salt Lake is the largest body of water west of the Great Lakes, but it's hard to say just exactly how big it is, as its size fluctuates. The best place to experience the lake (and see the birds) is at  Antelope Island State Park . White-sand beaches, birds and buffalo attract people to the pretty, 15-mile-long park.

The largest island in the sprawling lake is home to a 600-strong herd of American bison, or buffalo. The fall roundup, for veterinary exams, is a thrilling spectacle. Also making their year-round home here are burrowing owls and raptors, as well as namesake antelope, bighorn sheep and deer.

Nineteen miles of hiking trails provide many opportunities to view wildlife; however, some trails close during mating and birthing seasons. In addition to an 8-mile driving loop, there's a white, sandy beach to the south on Bridger Bay with basic facilities and showers.

Getting to Antelope Island State Park: Antelope Island is just an hour from Salt Lake City on I-15 North and UT-108 North across Farmington Bay. 

2. Bonneville Salt Flats

Millennia ago, ancient Lake Bonneville covered northern Utah and beyond. Today, all that remains is the Great Salt Lake and 47 sq miles of shimmering white salt. The Bonneville Salt Flats are now public lands managed by the BLM, and are best known for racing. The flat, hard salt makes speeds possible here that aren't possible anywhere else. That said, remember that salt is insanely corrosive. If you drive on the flats, wash your car – especially the undercarriage – afterward. If you're traveling west, there's a rest stop where you can walk on the sand (and wash off your shoes in the bathroom). The nearest town is Wendover, on the Utah–Nevada state line.

Getting to:  The Flats are about 100 miles west of Salt Lake City on I-80. Take exit 4, Bonneville Speedway, and follow the paved road to the viewing area parking lot (no services). From here you can drive on the hard-packed salt during late summer and fall (it's too wet otherwise). Obey posted signs: parts of the flats are thin and can trap vehicles.

3. Brigham City

On May 10, 1869, the westward Union Pacific Railroad and eastward Central Pacific Railroad met at Promontory Summit. With the completion of the transcontinental railroad, the face of the American West changed forever.  Golden Spike National Historic Site , 32 miles northwest of Brigham City on Hwy 83, has an interesting museum and films, auto tours and several interpretive trails. Steam-engine demonstrations take place May through mid-October. Aside from Golden Spike National Historic Site, few people visit Utah's desolate northwest corner.

At the end of a dirt road (4WD recommended but not required) 15 miles southwest of the Golden Spike visitor center, there's a wonderfully unique outdoor art installation, the  Spiral Jetty . It's a 1500ft coil of rock and earth spinning out into the water, and a groundbreaking example of site-specific sculpture. It's a little hard to find – get directions from Box Elder County Tourism or the nearby Golden Spike Visitor Center.

Whatever you get into, be sure to unwind afterwards at Crystal Hot Springs. 10 miles north of Brigham City in Honeyville, adults float in different-temperature soaking pools while kids zip down the water slides (open shorter hours than the pools November through February).

Getting to Brigham City: Brigham City is essentially a straight shot north from Salt Lake via the I-15.

With university charm and pretty rural surroundings, Logan is a quintessential old-fashioned community with strong Mormon roots. It's situated 80 miles north of Salt Lake City in bucolic Cache Valley, which offers year-round outdoor activities. Logan Canyon offers hiking and biking galore. It's beautiful year-round, but July wildflowers and October foliage are particularly brilliant.

Pick up a free interpretive trail guide at the Cache Valley Visitor Bureau in Logan before you head off on the 40-mile riverside drive through  Logan Canyon Scenic Byway . Wind your way up through the Bear River Mountains, past Beaver Mountain, before descending to the 20-mile-long Bear Lake, a summer water-sports playground. Along the way there are numerous signposted hiking and biking trails and campgrounds, which are all part of the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. Note that parts of the route may be closed due to snow December through May and campgrounds may not open until late June. Check conditions with the Logan Ranger District Office.

Getting to Logan: Logan is just an hour and fifteen minutes from Salt Lake. You essentially take the I-15 N to Brigham City and then transfer to US-91 N to peel slightly northeast to Logan.

5. Herber City and Midway

Twenty miles south of Park City, Heber City (population 15,792) and its vast valley make an alternative base for exploring the surrounding mountains. A popular steam-powered  railway  runs from here. A scant 3 miles east, Midway (population 5093) is modeled after an alpine town, with hand-painted buildings set against the slopes. Here you'll find activity-laden resorts – great for families – and a thermal  crater  you can swim in. Resort activities are open to all, and cross-country skiing is available close to both towns. Many of the forested mountains east of the towns have hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, ATV and snowmobile trails that are part of the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest.

Getting to Herber City and Midway: Herber City is 43 minutes from Salt Lake via I-80 E and US-189/US-40 East, just on the other side of Wasatch peaks like Park City and Bald Mountain.

During Ogden's heyday, historic 25th St was lined with brothels and raucous saloons; today the restored buildings house restaurants, galleries, bakeries and bars. The old town is atmospheric, but the main attraction here is 20 miles east in the Wasatch Mountains of Ogden Valley. Since skiing here is more than an hour's drive from Salt Lake City, most metro-area residents head to Park City or the SLC resorts, leaving  Snowbasin  and  Powder Mountain  luxuriously empty. The villages of Huntsville and Eden, halfway between town and mountains, are nearest to the resorts.

Getting to Ogden: Only 36 minutes north of Salt Lake, Ogden is right on I-15 North. Once you see Thurston Peak on your right, you don't have too far to go.

7. Park City

With a dusting of snow, the century-old buildings on main street create a snow-globe scene come to life. A one-time silver boom-and-bust town, pretty Park City is now lined with condos and mansions in the valleys. Utah's premier ski village boasts fabulous restaurants and cultural offerings. It recently annexed the adjacent Canyons Resort to become the largest ski resort in North America.

Park City first shot to international fame when it hosted the downhill, jumping and sledding events at the 2002 Winter Olympics. Today it's the permanent home base for the US Ski Team. There's usually snow through mid-April.

Come summer, more residents than visitors gear up for hiking and mountain biking among the nearby peaks. June to August, temperatures average in the 70s F° ( 20s C°); nights are chilly. Spring and fall can be wet and boring; resort services, limited in summer compared with winter, shut down entirely between seasons.

Getting to Park City: Park City is about 40 minutes from downtown Salt Lake via I-80 East. If you don't want to drive or don't have a car, there are privately run shuttle companies that go back and forth between SLC and Park City, too.

8. Timpanogos Cave National Monument

Deep underneath the bulk of Mount Timpanogos, a series of limestone chambers have slowly grown as a result of the active Wasatch Fault that runs through northern Utah and southern Idaho. Three beautiful caves are connected by man-made tunnels blasted by the Civilian Conservation Corps almost a century ago after they were initially discovered by European settlers in the late 19th century. Hansen Cave, Middle Cave, and Timpanogos Cave are all protected as  Timpanogos Cave National Monument  and are accessible on ranger-led tours. Be prepared for a hike, however, as you'll need to climb up a tough 1092ft of elevation gain over just a mile and a half to reach the entrance.

Getting to Timpanogos Cave National Monument: Depart Salt Lake City on I-15 S until you are just north of Lehi, at which point you junction onto UT-92 E. The whole drive will take about forty minutes. 

The third-largest city in Utah, Provo is the hometown of saccharine 1970s sibling singing sensation Donny and Marie Osmond. Just 45 miles south of Salt Lake City, this is a college town centered around  Brigham Young University . University Ave, Provo's main thoroughfare, intersects Center St in the small old downtown core. The University's Museum of Art is one of the biggest in the Southwest, with a concentration on American art. Also worth a visit is the Covey Center for the Arts, a modern performance center with an auditorium, experimental theater space, art galleries and dance studios. Check the website for events.

Steel horse cowboys won't want to miss the Legends Motorcycle Museum with more than 200 vintage bikes on display, including the exceedingly rare 1907 Harley-Davidson Strap Tank (one of only three such motorcycles in existence). Also worth visiting is the adjacent Strap Tank Brewery, which makes its own craft beer and surprisingly good pub grub. Springville is 12 miles south of Provo. Note that the whole place pretty much shuts down on Sunday.

Getting to Provo: I-15 S will get you to Provo in under an hour.

10. Goblin Valley State Park

No matter what you think the stadium-like valley of stunted hoodoos resembles, one thing’s for sure – the 3654-acre Goblin Valley State Park is just plain fun. A few trails lead from the overlooks down to the valley floor. You can climb down, around and even over the evocative ‘goblins’ (2ft to 20ft–tall formations). Kids and photographers especially love it. The park's 19-site  campground  books up on most weekends. West of the park off Goblin Valley Rd is BLM land, with good, free dispersed camping, but no services (stay on designated roads). North of the park entrance, an unpaved dirt road heads west to the Little Wild Horse and Bell Canyon loop trail, a moderate 8-mile hike through a series of lovely, narrow slot canyons.

Getting to Goblin Valley State Park: Goblin Valley is admittedly a stretch for a day trip, at three and a half hours from Salt Lake City. But the stunning hoodoos are worth an early start and a late return, with an easy drive down I-15 S to Spanish Fork, where you'll join US-6 E and UT-24 W to the park.

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The best campgrounds near Salt Lake City, according to campers

Highest-rated campgrounds in salt lake city, according to yelp.

Camping is a growing leisure activity with no signs of slowing down. According to KOA's 2022 North American Camping report, close to 57 million households in the U.S. and Canada took at least one camping trip in the last year, with tent camping being the most popular way to sleep outdoors.

There are many factors to consider when planning a camping trip, including the amenities. Car camping usually means driving up to your campsite, which allows campers to haul a few more amenities to the campgrounds. These sites may offer electrical outlets, public restrooms (including showers), and a grill or fire pit for cooking. RV camping and cabin rentals may also have these amenities within their unit.

On the other side, backcountry or primitive camping usually involves hiking into a campsite with few to no amenities. For example, at primitive sites, campers may need equipment light enough to carry to their campgrounds. They may also need to hang toiletries to keep wildlife away and treat their drinking water.

The National Park Services manages campgrounds inside 130 park units across the United States. Each state also manages parks with campgrounds, and there are a myriad of privately-owned campgrounds too. According to the North American Camping report, more than half of people tend to camp within 100 miles of their home, but there are endless options for where and how to camp.

People typically must reserve a campsite ahead of time, up to a year in advance for some of the most popular sites. To help you get a head start on planning, Stacker compiled a list of the highest-rated campgrounds in Salt Lake City using data from Yelp . Rankings factor in the average rating and number of reviews. Keep reading to see if your favorite spot made the list.

#3. Reid-Ranch

- Rating: 2.5/5 (3 reviews)

- Address: 2965 E Evergreen Ave Salt Lake City, UT 84109

- Categories: Horseback Riding, Resorts, Campgrounds

- Read more on Yelp

#2. Salt Lake City KOA

- Rating: 3.5/5 (110 reviews)

- Address: 1400 W North Temple Salt Lake City, UT 84116

- Categories: Campgrounds, RV Parks, Propane

#1. Sun Outdoors Salt Lake City

- Rating: 3.5/5 (123 reviews)

- Address: 1012 Recreation Way North Salt Lake, UT 84054

- Categories: RV Parks, Campgrounds, Vacation Rentals