Salt Lake City is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, and rightfully so. With mountains in every direction and a landscape as diverse as it is beautiful, there’s no shortage of incredible hikes that range from beginner-friendly strolls along the Bonneville Shoreline Trail to challenging summit scrambles among the Wasatch Mountain Range.
If you’re looking to get outside, breathe in that mountain air, and take in some unforgettable views, these six trails will show you the best of what Salt Lake City has to offer.
Salt Lake Hiking Trails You Won't Want to Miss
Closest to the City: City Creek Canyon
Just minutes from downtown Salt Lake, City Creek Canyon feels like a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. This scenic canyon trail can be accessed right from the city, passing through Memory Grove’s tranquil park setting before heading into the canyon’s shady, tree-lined trail. With both a paved road and a parallel singletrack trail, City Creek offers options for walkers, runners, cyclists, and casual hikers alike.
Distance: 11.8 miles (out and back)
Elevation Gain: 777 feet
Estimated Time to Complete: 4-5 hours
Things to Know:
- Limited Road Access: During weekdays, heavy construction limits road access, so plan accordingly and look for the crew directing traffic.
- Wildlife Sightings: Keep your eyes peeled—this is a hotspot for deer and the occasional mountain lion. Early mornings are best for wildlife spotting.
- Dog Rules: Dogs are welcome on-leash, but there’s a watershed boundary at which point pups have to turn back.
For Experienced Hikers: Mount Raymond in Big Cottonwood Canyon
If you’re up for a challenge, the trail to Mount Raymond is calling your name. Starting at Butler Fork in Big Cottonwood Canyon, this steep climb takes you through lush forests of aspen and evergreen, eventually rewarding you with sweeping 360-degree summit views. The trail’s rock scrambles and consistently steep incline make this a serious workout, but the sights along the way make it all worthwhile.
As you approach the summit, you’ll get an impressive view of Big Cottonwood Canyon and its surrounding peaks. The last bit to the top requires some rock scrambling, but once you’re up there, it’s one of the most scenic summits in the Wasatch.
Distance: 7.8 miles (out and back)
Elevation Gain: 3,100 feet
Estimated Time to Complete: 4.5-5.5 hours
Things to Know:
- No Dogs Allowed: Due to its protected status, this trail is off-limits to dogs—plan to leave the pups at home.
- Rock Scrambles Ahead: This hike isn’t for the faint of heart; near the summit, be prepared for a bit of rock scrambling.
- Watch for Early Snow: Snow can linger well into the summer months at higher elevations, so check trail conditions before you go.
Scenic Views: Maybird Lakes Little Cottonwood Canyon
For a moderate trail with jaw-dropping alpine scenery, Maybird Lakes is your go-to. This beautiful hike starts at the White Pine trailhead and leads to three peaceful lakes nestled at the base of the towering Pfeifferhorn peak. The trail is lined with wildflowers in summer and stunning foliage in the fall, making it a great choice for a scenic escape without too much elevation gain.
After following the Red Pine Canyon trail, you’ll reach Maybird Gulch, where granite boulders and alpine lakes create a serene, high-mountain setting. You can’t swim in the watershed lakes, but the views and the peacefulness of Maybird Lakes make the hike well worth it. Take some time to relax at the middle lake before heading back down.
Distance: 7.8 miles (out and back)
Elevation Gain: 2,000 feet
Estimated Time to Complete: 3-4 hours
Things to Know:
- No Swimming: These alpine lakes are within a protected watershed, so no swimming or wading allowed.
- Trail Forks: This trail shares a start with the Red Pine and White Pine trails, so pay attention to trail markers to stay on the right path.
- Rocky Terrain: After you cross into Maybird Gulch, expect more rocks and roots—proper footwear is a must!
Family Friendly: Lake Mary, Martha, and Catherine Trail
If you’re looking for a family-friendly adventure, the Lake Mary, Martha, and Catherine Trail is a wonderful option. Located at the Brighton Ski Resort, this trail takes you past three beautiful alpine lakes, each with its own charm. Lake Mary is the first and largest lake, making it a popular spot for picnics. From there, you can continue to Lake Martha and then Lake Catherine, which sits at the highest elevation with stunning mountain views.
Distance: 4.4 miles (out and back)
Elevation Gain: 1,200 feet
Estimated Time to Complete: 2-3 hours
Things to Know:
- Family-Friendly: This trail is easy enough for kids, and the lakes make for scenic picnic spots along the way.
- Wildflower Heaven: Visit in late summer to catch the wildflowers in full bloom around the lakes—perfect for photos!
- Snow Warning: Snow tends to stick around until late June, so check conditions if you’re hiking early in the season.
Explore the Wasatch Mountains: Lake Blanche Trail
Lake Blanche is an iconic Wasatch mountain hike that offers challenging switchbacks and stunning rewards. This steep trail winds through Big Cottonwood Canyon, climbing to a striking alpine lake that reflects Sundial Peak’s jagged summit on clear days. It’s a popular spot, and the rocky trail is a favorite for photographers and seasoned hikers alike.
The views along the way are just as impressive as those at the lake. Once you reach Lake Blanche, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard-worthy scene, with crystal-clear waters, granite cliffs, and wildflowers in bloom. The elevation gain is substantial, but it’s a memorable hike that’ll have you coming back year after year.
Distance: 5.6 miles (out and back)
Elevation Gain: 2,600 feet
Estimated Time to Complete: 3-4 hours
Things to Know:
- Breathtaking but Steep: This trail is challenging with a steep incline, but the lake views and Sundial Peak are worth it.
- Can Get Crowded: It’s a popular hike, especially on weekends, so try going early or on a weekday for a quieter experience.
- Waterfall Detour: At the trailhead, look for a short detour to a waterfall—a nice scenic add-on if you have extra time.
For Mountain Biking: Mount Olympus Pipeline Trail
For those who want a quick but scenic hike with excellent views, the Mount Olympus Pipeline Trail is a popular choice. This trail offers a gentle incline and is perfect for both hikers and mountain bikers. It’s an easy hike with plenty of shade and a nice view over Salt Lake City, making it a great option for beginners or anyone looking to squeeze in a quick outdoor adventure.
The trail’s highlight is the view over the Salt Lake Valley, especially beautiful in the morning or at sunset. It’s accessible and manageable, but you’ll still get a taste of Salt Lake’s incredible landscape with minimal effort.
Things to Know:
- Dog-Friendly: Dogs are welcome here, and some areas allow them off-leash—just keep an eye out for fellow hikers.
- Great for a Quick Adventure: This trail is short and manageable, perfect for a sunset hike or a quick workout.
- Popular with Bikers: This trail is a favorite for mountain bikers, so keep an eye out and share the path.
What to Bring on Salt Lake City Hikes
Hiking Gear
Having the right gear makes a huge difference in both comfort and safety, especially when you’re taking on the rocky, varied terrain around Salt Lake City. Here’s what you don’t want to hit the trail without:
- Hiking Boots: Durable, well-fitted boots with good ankle support are a must. They’ll help keep you stable on uneven ground, protect against sharp rocks, and reduce the risk of slipping.
- Trekking Poles: For steeper hikes, trekking poles offer extra stability and help save your knees on those downhill stretches.
- Backpack: Choose a lightweight, comfortable backpack with enough room for essentials like water, snacks, and a small first-aid kit. Look for one with adjustable straps and a hydration sleeve for a water reservoir.
Water, Snacks, and a Cooler
Keeping yourself hydrated and fueled is key to enjoying any hike, and longer trails especially require smart planning for food and water.
- Water: Salt Lake’s high elevation and dry air mean you can get dehydrated quickly. Bring at least 1 liter of water for every two hours of hiking, and consider a hydration bladder for easy access.
- Snacks: High-energy, non-perishable snacks like trail mix, jerky, and granola bars are perfect for the trail. They’re lightweight, packable, and will give you the boost you need.
- Portable Cooler: A small and lightweight hard cooler can make all the difference when you want a cold drink or fresh snack break.
First Aid and Safety
Being prepared with basic first-aid and safety gear means you’re ready to handle small mishaps and unexpected situations.
- First-Aid Kit: A compact kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, blister treatment, and pain relievers can be a lifesaver.
- Emergency Whistle: In case you get separated from your group, a whistle can be heard far and wide to help alert others to your location.
- Flashlight or Headlamp: Trails can get darker than expected, especially if you’re on a longer hike. A headlamp or small flashlight helps you find your way back safely if the light fades.
Enjoy the Best Salt Lake City Hiking Trails
When it comes to Salt Lake City hiking, there's something for everyone, from easygoing nature strolls to challenging ascents. With views of towering peaks, serene lakes, and the sweeping Salt Lake Valley, these trails showcase Utah’s rugged beauty. So grab your pack, lace up your boots, and get ready to explore some of the best hiking spots in the Wasatch Mountains.
