This is a MUST DO and great trail for everyone from your avid hiker looking to get a quick workout to the family out enjoying the weekend! It is very well marked and accessible trail to all. The views from the top of Salt Lake City, the airport and the whole valley are stunning! There is usually plenty of parking on the road next to a beautiful neighborhood park.
A note for Parents: you can’t push the stroller up the trail (no, not even your bob...!) there’s a fairly steep stairs section (about 1/4 the way up) and another narrow boulder passageway near the top that won’t accommodate so strap that baby to your chest and hike it!
Another note for parents with young children! There are a number of STEEP drop-offs near the top of the trail so make sure those babies are close to you! Other than that this trail is totally doable for the whole family. I saw kids as young as 2 walking with their parents and grand parents.
If you have week knees, ankles, hips etc you will probably still be able to make it up. Just bring a walking stick or a good friend to help! There are a few areas where the trail is a bit loose so take your time. There are also a few rest areas with limited seating if you need to take your time and plenty of room in the trail to socially distance.
Total distance up is just shy of half a mile or so with about 500’ of elevation gain. I had a pretty good pace and did the whole thing in under 20 minutes (not including taking in the beautiful vista views...
Read moreEnsign Peak Trailhead offers a delightful hiking experience that is perfect for families, including kids and dogs. The trail is well-maintained and provides a gentle, easy-going hike that spans 2 miles if you choose to take the full loop. For those looking for a shorter adventure, the 1-mile trek up to the stunning viewpoint and back is equally rewarding.
The trail is accessible for all skill levels, making it an excellent choice for beginners and casual hikers. The path meanders through beautiful scenery, culminating in an incredible panoramic view that makes the journey worthwhile. The vista at the top is a breathtaking reward, showcasing the surrounding landscape and providing a perfect spot for a family photo or a moment of tranquility.
One of the highlights of this trail is its family-friendly atmosphere. Kids will enjoy the manageable distance, and the wide paths allow for easy navigation, even with pets in tow. Dogs are welcome, making it a great choice for pet owners who want to enjoy the outdoors with their furry friends.
Overall, Ensign Peak Trailhead is a fantastic option for those seeking a relaxing hike with stunning views. Whether you opt for the full loop or a quick jaunt to the viewpoint, you're sure to enjoy a lovely...
Read moreEnsign Peak Trailhead - Salt Lake City, UT
The Ensign Peak Trail is a great experience! The trail is a quick, rewarding hike, perfect for families or anyone looking for a short outdoor adventure with breathtaking views. The trail is about 0.8 miles round trip with a moderate incline, but it’s manageable for most fitness levels. The hike took us around 30-45 minutes, and the panoramic views from the top, especially at sunset, were worth every step.
A few helpful tips for anyone planning to hike:
• Bring water! There’s no shade along the trail, and it can get hot, especially in the summer. • The trail can be rocky in spots, so wear sturdy shoes. • The small parking lot fills up quickly, especially on weekends, so you may need to park further down. • The elevation gain of about 374 feet might feel steep in some parts, but the overall distance makes it doable.
We also appreciated the historical significance of the hike—there’s a monument at the top that commemorates the early settlers’ first look at the Salt Lake Valley in 1847. A short but memorable hike, definitely recommend it for both the views and...
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