The Best Hikes in Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City is one of my absolute favorite places on this planet. It is a city that has such a unique and inspiring culture, some of the kindest people you have ever met, and the absolute best views of any city I’ve been. There is a spirit about this place that is like no other, one that I truly believe is brought to life by the mountains that surround it.
If you like to hike, ski, bike, backpack or just generally frolic in the mountains, this place is for you. I spent a year living in and soaking up the this breathtaking city and it’s majestic mountaintops, and it was not nearly enough. Fortunately, I did make the most of my time in Utah, and spent nearly every weekend in the mountains. From Millcreek Canyon to Little Cottonwood Canyon and Big Cottonwood Canyon, to Park City, Antelope Island, Moab and everywhere in between.
These Utah trails were full of life. Solo trekkers, groups of pals, families and furry friends, all of which were so happy to be in the mountains, soaking up the terrain, the wildlife and the views. I once had a friendly stranger at the top tell me that I clearly had the spirit for this Utah life, and that’s a compliment I still hold near and dear to my heart.
I enjoyed many hikes throughout the state of Utah, wether hiking on my own, with some friends, or as a guide with a group of out-of-staters just setting eyes on these mountains for the first time. Each trail brought its own unique experience and I don’t think there was a single hike I didn’t enjoy. But, I did end up with a few favorites that I went back to time and time again. I highly recommend these trails if you find yourself in this little piece of heaven that is Salt Lake City.
Location: Millcreek Canyon
Length: 3.2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Rating: 4-Star
The Rattlesnake Gulch Trail is a go-to hike for me in Salt Lake City. If I am looking for something relatively moderate, that will give me some great views and not take me all day long, Rattlesnake is my top choice. Located in Millcreek Canyon, this 3.2 mile trek is great to share with your pal, your kid, your dog or your self! The first 3/4 mile is a bit of a climb, but then the trail levels out, wraps around the mountain and leads you to a beautiful overlook of the Salt Lake Valley. 4 stars from me!
Location: North Salt Lake
Length: 2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Rating: 3-Star
The Wild Rose Trail is THE sunset hike you need in your life. This easy 2 mile trail has an easy climb that’s perfect for feet, paws or bikes and will give you a nice mellow journey around the mountain, through the woods, and up to a pretty little bench overlooking North Salt Lake (and the airport!). Pick a clear night, grab your boots, camera and a nice cool drink, and gaze at the prettiest sunset you’ve ever seen.
Location: Red Butte Canyon
Length: 2.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Rating: 4-Star
The Living Room Lookout Trail, aptly named for the living room furniture located up at the top! Take this windy (and a bit narrow) dirt trail up, gazing at city views the entire way. If you’re walking on a sunny day, definitely bring a hat and some sunscreen because this is an open trail without any coverage and you will get burnt! But even if you don’t come prepared, the views will be well worth it. A bit of a climb, this 2.5 miler is definitely on the moderate side, but is totally doable for most people. Make it to the living room and you will be rewarded with a welcoming, cozy rock couch or chair to take a load off. Then continue onward and make it a loop or turn around and come back down. Definitely a popular, awesome hike in Salt Lake!
Bell Canyon Trail to Lower Falls
Location: Sandy
Length: 2-5 miles
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Rating: 4-Star
Choose your own adventure! Take the easy trail up from the parking lot to the lower lake, where you can sit and hang out with some ducklings or continue around the lake for some more beautiful views and extra steps. Or, continue onward through the Lone Peak Wilderness and up to the lower falls. A great hike if you are solo or with a group, looking for something easy (or moderate) that makes a good morning jaunt or mid-day adventure.
Salt Lake Overlook via Desolation Trail
Location: Millcreek Canyon
Length: 5.2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Rating: 5-Star
My absolute favorite hike in Salt Lake! This switchback trail has no shortage of features - smooth trail, rocky trail, open trail, covered trail, etc. etc. I love this hike because it’s not too easy but not too hard either, and well worth the climb to the top where you’ll be rewarded with some really spectacular mountain views and city views too. An awesome adventure in every season (although some would argue best in the fall) and one that you will certainly never forget.
Remember: Be kind. Be Safe. And Leave No Trace!
