The best walks and hikes in Salt Lake County

The Lake Catherine via Brighton Lakes Trail offers a classic Wasatch alpine experience, guiding you through lush forests and past three pristine lakes: Lake Mary, Lake Martha, and the stunning Lake Catherine. You'll enjoy panoramic views of surrounding peaks like Mount Wolverine and Mount Millicent, with vibrant wildflowers in summer and golden aspens in fall. This moderate 4.5-mile (7.3 km) hike involves a steady 1199 feet (365 metres) of elevation gain, making it a rewarding journey that typically takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes to complete.

To make the most of your trip, aim for summer or early fall, keeping in mind that early summer can bring bugs. The trailhead is at Brighton Resort, and arriving early, especially on weekends, is a good idea to secure parking. Remember, dogs are not allowed on this trail, and swimming or wading in the lakes is prohibited as they are part of a protected watershed area.

This trail is particularly notable for its high concentration of alpine lakes, offering a serene escape from the city heat. While popular, especially near Lake Mary, the crowds tend to thin out as you continue towards Lake Martha and Lake Catherine, providing a more secluded experience. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as moose and marmots, adding to the natural charm of this beautiful mountain trek.

Enjoy an easy hike on the Sugar House Park Loop, a pleasant route spanning 1.8 miles (2.9 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 87 feet (26 metres). You can comfortably complete this loop in about 45 minutes, making it ideal for a quick outdoor escape. As you walk, you will see pleasant views of the surrounding mountains and pass a large pond, often home to ducks and geese, nestled within 110 acres of lush green space.

This popular trail sees high traffic year-round, attracting many runners and walkers looking for an accessible path. Dogs are welcome to join you on the route, but please remember to keep them leashed at all times for everyone's safety and enjoyment. The park is well-maintained and offers a refreshing natural setting right within the city, perfect for a casual stroll or a brisk walk.

Sugar House Park is a significant community hub, providing more than just a trail; it features numerous amenities like playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. This makes it a great family-friendly destination where you can combine your hike with other recreational activities. The mature trees and cultivated areas add to the park's charm, offering a peaceful environment to relax and unwind.

The Bear Canyon Bridge via Bonneville Shoreline Trail offers a fantastic moderate hike with ever-changing scenery and a memorable suspension bridge. You'll navigate a mix of dirt paths and rocky sections, including some steep climbs, as you gain 554 feet (169 metres) of elevation. The reward is sweeping views of the Salt Lake Valley and the Wasatch Mountains, culminating in the exciting 185-foot-long Bear Canyon Suspension Bridge, which provides a unique perspective over the canyon.

Plan your visit for spring or early summer to catch abundant wildflowers and potentially a large waterfall high in the canyon, or in fall for vibrant foliage. The trail is popular and shared with mountain bikers, so remain aware of your surroundings. Access is convenient from trailheads like Orson Smith Park, which provides restrooms and picnic areas, making it a great starting point for this 4.8-mile (7.7 km) adventure that typically takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes.

This segment of the extensive Bonneville Shoreline Trail system is notable for its dynamic terrain and the iconic Bear Canyon Suspension Bridge. Beyond the bridge, you'll find a small wooden bridge crossing Bear Creek and, in July, a large flag often hung in the canyon. The trail's accessibility and varied features make it a top-rated hike in the Salt Lake City area, offering a rewarding experience for hikers of various fitness levels.

The Silver Lake, Lake Solitude, and Twin Lakes Loop offers a truly diverse hiking experience, starting with an accessible boardwalk around Silver Lake before climbing through dense old-growth forests to Lake Solitude and Twin Lakes. This moderate 4.2-mile (6.8 km) route packs in 936 feet (285 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 2 hours and 11 minutes, and rewards you with stunning alpine scenery, including views of Mount Millicent and Mount Wolverine from Twin Lakes. Expect varied terrain, from flat paths to steep, rocky sections, especially on the ascent to Twin Lakes.

Planning your visit to this popular trail is straightforward, with access from the Brighton Ski Resort area. Be aware that Big Cottonwood Canyon is a watershed area, so swimming and wading are prohibited, and dogs are generally not allowed on the trails. The trail is particularly beautiful in late summer for its abundant wildflowers and in the fall when the aspen groves turn golden, offering a spectacular seasonal display.

Beyond the beautiful lakes, the area is rich in wildlife; keep an eye out for moose, deer, yellow-bellied marmots, and pikas. The loop is also highly adaptable, allowing you to adjust its length or even add on nearby trails like Dog Lake, making it suitable for various hiking preferences. Parts of the trail pass near Solitude Ski Resort infrastructure, adding another layer to the landscape.

The Liberty Park Loop offers an easy hike through a historic urban park in Salt Lake City. You'll follow a paved path that winds past the tranquil Liberty Park Pond and the notable Tracy Aviary, providing a pleasant experience amidst diverse trees like towering cottonwoods. This accessible route covers 1.6 miles (2.6 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 18 feet (6 metres), making it a quick outing that takes about 39 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit to the Liberty Park Loop is straightforward. You will find ample parking available within Liberty Park, along with convenient restrooms and water fountains. The route is popular for walking, running, and cycling, and it is also dog-friendly, provided your pet remains on a leash. Its paved surface makes it suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, ensuring accessibility for many visitors.

This trail stands out as a central green space, offering more than just a walk; it's a hub of activity and history. Beyond the natural beauty, you can explore cultural landmarks such as the historic Isaac Chase Mill and the Chase Home Museum of Utah Folk Arts, all within the park's boundaries. The Liberty Park Loop provides a unique blend of outdoor recreation and local heritage, right in the heart of the city.

Embark on the Alta-Brighton Lakes Loop for a challenging alpine adventure through the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. This difficult hike covers 8.9 miles (14.3 km) and demands a significant 2286 feet (697 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 4 hours and 57 minutes to complete. You will traverse diverse terrain, from lush green meadows and dense pine forests to rugged rocky sections, all while enjoying views of pristine alpine lakes like Lake Mary, Lake Martha, and Lake Catherine.

When planning your visit, be aware that this high-elevation route is largely within ski resort areas and closes during the winter ski season, usually from late November through early April, due to heavy snow. Always prepare for rapidly changing weather and high-altitude conditions, even in summer. Remember that watershed regulations prohibit swimming in the lakes and do not allow pets on the trail.

The Alta-Brighton Lakes Loop offers a true taste of the Wasatch Range's beauty, providing panoramic vistas from vantage points such as Twin Lakes Pass and Catherine Pass. This route is a highlight for experienced hikers seeking a rewarding journey through some of the region's most picturesque mountain landscapes.

Embark on the Little Cottonwood Creek Trail for a moderate 6.5-mile (10.5 km) hike that gains 1011 feet (308 metres) in elevation, usually taking about 3 hours and 6 minutes to complete. As you follow the route, you will enjoy the soothing sounds of the creek, winding through dense forests of pine and aspen. The terrain shifts between smooth dirt paths and rocky sections, offering a varied experience as you continuously gain elevation. Look out for impressive, massive granite boulders, some still showing chisel marks from pioneer mining activities, and enjoy the vibrant waterfalls and cascades, especially during the spring snowmelt.

When planning your visit, be aware that this is a popular multi-use trail. Parking is available at the trailhead, but remember that dogs are not permitted on this route. The canyon is a critical protected watershed area for Salt Lake Valley, so these restrictions help preserve its natural state. While the trail is generally accessible, you might encounter streamlets crossing the path, particularly during warmer months when snowmelt is higher.

This trail offers a rewarding experience through a picturesque canyon within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. The presence of granite boulders with historical chisel marks provides a unique glimpse into the area's past, connecting you to early pioneer activities. The dynamic landscape, shaped by the creek and its cascades, makes this route a notable choice for those seeking both natural beauty and a touch of local history.

The Silver Lake Nature Trail is a delightful, easy nature walk that winds around the picturesque Silver Lake, offering stunning views of the water and surrounding mountain ridges. You'll traverse a well-maintained boardwalk through wetlands, sedge meadows, and aspen groves, making it feel like a journey through diverse ecosystems. Keep an eye out for abundant wildflowers, especially from mid-July through late August, and potential wildlife sightings like moose.

This accessible route is perfect for families, those with strollers, or anyone seeking a gentle outdoor experience. The trailhead is conveniently located near Brighton Resort, with restrooms and picnic tables available. While parking is generally ample, arriving earlier in the day is recommended, particularly on busy summer weekends, to secure a spot and enjoy the tranquility.

What makes this trail truly special is its ADA accessibility, making it the only one of its kind in the Wasatch Mountains. It's an excellent spot for wildlife viewing, with over 100 species of plants, insects, and birds, and interpretive signs along the 2.3-mile (3.6 km) loop provide educational insights into the local flora and fauna. With only 78 feet (24 metres) of elevation gain, this easy trail takes about 56 minutes to complete, making it a high-reward, low-effort option.

The Oquirrh Lake Long Loop offers a delightful, easy stroll around a scenic man-made lake, perfect for a relaxed day out. This 3.8-mile (6.2 km) route features continuous views of Oquirrh Lake, often reflecting the distant mountains, and you’ll spot various birds like ducks and geese along the way. The path is mostly paved, with some gravel sections, making it a smooth journey with minimal 55 feet (17 metres) of elevation gain.

Planning your visit is straightforward for this accessible trail. The Oquirrh Lake Long Loop trail difficulty and length make it suitable for all ages and abilities, including those with strollers or wheelchairs. You can easily shorten your hike using the convenient bridges that cross the lake, and benches are available for breaks. For the best light and atmosphere, consider an early morning or late afternoon visit.

This trail stands out for its unique blend of urban convenience and natural beauty within the Daybreak community. Beyond hiking, Oquirrh Lake is a local favorite for activities like kayaking and paddleboarding, and you might even enjoy some wildlife spotting along the shoreline. It's a well-maintained space that offers a refreshing escape without leaving the city.