Hiking in Salt Lake City
And that’s just what they’ll do. Here are five hikes to take you out of the city and into Utah’s rough-but-not-too-rugged backyard, this weekend.
1. Lake Blanche/Sundial Peak: Located in Big Cottonwood Canyon, this hike is said to be a nature photographer’s dream-come-true.
- Where: Mill B South Fork, Big Cottonwood Canyon
- How long: 3 miles, approx. 4 hours round trip
- How to get there: See here.
- Tip: Don’t bring Fido to keep you on track; he’s not allowed
- Why: Photos are worth a thousand words.
2. Adams Canyon: Short Davis County hike features 40-foot waterfall at its end.
- Where: East Kaysville
- How long: 3.5 miles, approx. 2 hours round trip
- How to get there: See here.
- Tip: To stay cool, stay near the river
- Why: Nice evergreens, and rave reviews.
3. Cecret Lake: Nice and easy, this Little Cottonwood Canyon trail is hardly a secret.
- Where: Little Cottonwood Canyon’s end
- How long: 1.5 miles, approx. 1 hour round trip
- How to get there: See here.
- Tip: Fun stroll under a full moon
- Why: Nice spread.
4. Bell Canyon: Sandy-area hike heads to reservoirs and rock garden
- Where: Sandy, just off Wasatch Boulevard and 9400 South
- How long: 1 mile, approx. 1.5 hours round trip
- How to get there: Trailhead parking lot at 10245 S. Wasatch Blvd. on the east side of the road.
- Tip: Sturdy shoes=sturdy climb
- Why: Do you prefer one lake or two?
5. City Creek Canyon: Easy street near Capitol Hill.
- Where: Just north of Salt Lake City, at the end of Memory Grove
- How long: 6 miles, approx. 2.5 hours roundtrip
- How to get there: Scroll down here.
- Tip: Keep it clean.
- Why: One minute you’re downtown, the next, you’re hilltop.
Who knew there were so many great hiking-devoted sites? And special thanks to Carly for the tips.
{You tell us:} What are some of your favorites? Wishing everyone a happy weekend.
June 22nd, 2007 at 7:27 am
It’s probably not considered a hike, but we drive up and stroll around Silver Lake (near Brighton) at least a dozen times each summer. It’s easy, beautiful, and very kid-friendly. Thanks for the other suggestions, though. I’d love to give them all a try!
June 22nd, 2007 at 9:01 am
My favorite is a hike that doesn’t feel like a hike. That’s why Cecret Lake is on my list every time I come to SLC. Even if it’s a late night trip and I’m afraid the swamp monster is gonna get me. I’ll do it.
June 22nd, 2007 at 9:21 am
Thanks for the ideas! I’m itching to get up to the mountains… Thinking it’ll be cooler up there.
June 22nd, 2007 at 9:48 am
Millcreek Canyon has some of the best hiking trails and you can bring your dog. A quick hike that takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes roundtrip is Desolation Trail. The trailhead is just past Millcreek Inn. At the end you get a really nice view of the Salt Lake Valley. It’s beautiful.
June 22nd, 2007 at 5:50 pm
park city has some amazing trails to hike and bike on too! there’s a brand new one that was just finished and opened at the beginning of summer!
June 25th, 2007 at 8:10 am
My favorite is the Bonneville Shore Line trail, the Davis County section. It has amazing vistas, shade and sun, and creeks with rugged bridges to cross. The Baer Gutsman trail is also incredible. I am determined to do both soon with my kids.