Salt Lake City United States Hiking Areas

Best Hiking Areas in Salt Lake City, USA

Salt Lake City and its surrounding areas offer a diverse range of hiking trails for all skill levels. From scenic mountain vistas to tranquil desert landscapes, here are some of the top hiking spots in the region.

1. Ensign Peak

  • Distance from SLC: 10 minutes (5 miles)
  • Trail Type: Out-and-back
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Elevation Gain: 900 ft
  • Features: Scenic views of the valley and surrounding mountains, historic significance as a Mormon pioneer landmark

Ensign Peak offers a gentle hike with spectacular views of the Salt Lake Valley. The trailhead is located near the University of Utah campus.

2. Red Butte Garden Trail

  • Distance from SLC: 5 minutes (2 miles)
  • Trail Type: Loop
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
  • Elevation Gain: 400 ft
  • Features: Beautiful gardens, scenic views of the surrounding mountains

The Red Butte Garden Trail is a peaceful and picturesque hike through the beautiful gardens of the University of Utah. The loop trail takes you through various plant species and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

3. Donut Falls

  • Distance from SLC: 1 hour (30 miles)
  • Trail Type: Out-and-back
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Elevation Gain: 600 ft
  • Features: Unique waterfall, scenic canyon hike

Donut Falls is a unique and breathtaking hike that takes you through a scenic canyon to a stunning waterfall. The trailhead is located in Big Cottonwood Canyon.

4. Twin Peaks

  • Distance from SLC: 45 minutes (20 miles)
  • Trail Type: Loop
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
  • Elevation Gain: 1,500 ft
  • Features: Panoramic views of the Salt Lake Valley, scenic mountain vistas

Twin Peaks offers a challenging but rewarding hike with panoramic views of the Salt Lake Valley. The trailhead is located in Big Cottonwood Canyon.

5. Neffs Canyon

  • Distance from SLC: 1 hour (30 miles)
  • Trail Type: Out-and-back
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
  • Elevation Gain: 2,000 ft
  • Features: Scenic canyon hike, opportunities to see wildlife

Neffs Canyon is a scenic and challenging hike that takes you through a stunning canyon with opportunities to see wildlife. The trailhead is located in Big Cottonwood Canyon.

These are just a few of the many hiking areas in and around Salt Lake City. Remember to always check the weather forecast, bring plenty of water and snacks, and be mindful of your surroundings to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike.