Want to explore Salt Lake City, Utah more? There are so many cool hiking trails to discover! Right in the middle of the Wasatch Mountains, you’ll find colorful fields of wildflowers in the summer and bright yellow aspen trees in the fall. We’ve picked out the best hikes and walking routes just for you!
1. Lake Blanche — Big Cottonwood Canyon
Trail Map
Lake Blanche is a tough but exciting hike in Big Cottonwood Canyon. The trail goes up steeply through a beautiful forest, and at the top, you’ll find Lake Blanche, sitting beneath the tall Sundial Peak. The lake reflects the peak in its calm waters, making it look like a postcard. The hike is hard, but if you’re an experienced hiker, the amazing views at the end make it worth the effort.
Distance: 6.8 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 2,706 feet
Difficulty: Hard
2. Bells Canyon Granite Trail to Bells Canyon Lower Falls — Lone Peak Wilderness
Trail Map
Bells Canyon Granite Trail is a great day hike with amazing views and a waterfall at the end. The trail starts at a reservoir and slowly climbs up rocky paths, where you can catch views of the Salt Lake Valley. When you get closer to the waterfall, the trail gets steeper, but it’s a perfect place to take a break. Be careful on the way down, though, since the path can be slippery and rocky.
Distance: 5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,460 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
3. Mount Olympus Trail to Mount Olympus — Mount Olympus Wilderness
Trail Map
Mount Olympus is a famous and challenging hike near Salt Lake City. The trail is very steep and is perfect if you want a big challenge. As you hike up, you’ll get incredible views of the city. The last part of the hike involves climbing over rocks to reach the top. When you get there, you’ll have 360-degree views of the Salt Lake Valley, the Great Salt Lake, and other mountains. It’s a hard hike but very rewarding for experienced hikers.
Distance: 7.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 4,200 feet
Difficulty: Hard
4. Brighton Lakes (Lake Mary, Martha, and Catherine) — Big Cottonwood Canyon
Trail Map
Brighton Lakes Trail is an easier, family-friendly hike that takes you past three beautiful lakes: Lake Mary, Martha, and Catherine. Located in Big Cottonwood Canyon, this trail has awesome views of lakes, wildflower-filled meadows, and mountains. The hike is not as steep as others, so it’s good for hikers of all skill levels. The calm surroundings and cool mountain air make it a perfect summer hike.
Distance: 4.4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,240 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
5. Desolation Overlook — Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest
Trail Map
If you want a shorter hike with great views, Desolation Overlook is a great option. This trail, found in Mill Creek Canyon, winds through shaded forests and eventually opens up to amazing views of Desolation Canyon and the wilderness. It’s especially popular in the fall when the leaves change color. This peaceful trail offers a nice escape from the city without taking up your whole day.
Distance: 4.8 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,470 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
6. Cecret Lake Loop — Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest
Trail Map
Cecret Lake is a hidden treasure located in the Albion Basin near Alta. It’s an easy, short hike that’s perfect for families or those who want a calm walk through meadows filled with wildflowers. The trail has great views of nearby peaks, and the lake is a peaceful spot at the end. This hike is extra popular in mid-summer when the wildflowers are in full bloom, and it’s a good place to see wildlife like moose.
Distance: 1.7 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 440 feet
Difficulty: Easy
