Nestled against the dramatic backdrop of the Wasatch Mountains, Salt Lake City offers a rare blend of urban convenience and untamed wilderness. You can grab an espresso downtown and, twenty minutes later, be standing on a trailhead breathing in thin alpine air. For locals and visitors alike, the outdoor lifestyle here is not just a weekend hobby; it is a fundamental part of the culture.
The unique geography of the Salt Lake Valley creates a playground that changes drastically with the seasons. While the city is famous for having "The Greatest Snow on Earth" in the winter, the melting snow reveals a landscape perfect for hiking, climbing, and paddling during the warmer months. The high desert climate ensures low humidity, making even strenuous physical activity feel invigorating rather than exhausting.
However, navigating such a vast array of options can be overwhelming for newcomers. Whether you are a hardcore adrenaline junkie looking for a technical climb or a family seeking a leisurely afternoon in nature, the region has something tailored to your specific energy level. The key to enjoying the outdoors here is knowing where the locals go to escape the crowds and find the best views.
Accessibility is one of the biggest advantages of outdoor recreation in Salt Lake City. Unlike mountain towns where you must drive hours to reach a destination, many of the best trailheads here are accessible via a short ride-share or public transit. This proximity allows you to maximize your time in nature rather than spending your day in traffic.
Before you lace up your boots or grab your gear, it is essential to understand the local environment. The altitude is significantly higher than sea level, and the sun is intense, requiring proper hydration and sun protection even on cloudy days. Additionally, respecting the fragile desert ecosystem ensures that these beautiful spaces remain pristine for generations to come.
Below is a curated list of the best ways to experience the natural beauty surrounding the capital city. These activities are selected for their scenic value, accessibility, and the unique way they showcase the diverse terrain of Northern Utah.
Hidden Falls
| Address | Salt Lake City, UT 84121 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
Such a beautiful waterfall in the big cottonwood canyon area.
Parking is a little all over the place, and the actual parking lot is small, but there are tons of spots along the road, just a little dangerous around the hairpin turns coming in and out.
The trail is up past the main parking area, on the left side of the road. From the lower, main parking lot, there is a set of stairs that takes you up, where you have to cross the road (carefully) and you end up on the trail heading straight along the creek.
As for the trail, it follows the creek about 0.1 miles up and then you are right at the falls.
The falls is a beautiful falls. It is tucked in right between two tall rock cliffs and is so pretty. There is also a little mine that you can see into when you backtrack from the falls a little bit on the right side which is pretty cool.
Definitely worth it if in the area for an easy hike to a waterfall!
Very Short walk to the falls. It is at the entrance to MILL B NORTH FORK TRAIL. You take a left and walk along the creek for 200-300 feet. Pretty, do it, but not a must see.
MILL B NORTH FORK TRAIL: This leads to the look out. Go to the lookout for sure. Steep hike with rocky terrain. Better to wear shoes or hiking boots.
There was one couple coming down when we went up. There was a woman with walking poles at the lookout. Said it was one of her favorites. She said it was her 5th visit.
Really nice stop while on our way to rockhound! Parking is tough the free spaces along the road fill up quickly! Traffic moves fast so be careful pulling out.
Super chill and easy, my 78 year old mom came with me and had a great time went all the way to the base.
Fun short hike to this falls themselves. Shady trail. Tie kids enjoyed it. The mine was blocked off and mostly watery inside, but interesting.
Utah Outdoor Adventures
| Address | S Echo Frontage Rd, Henefer, UT 84033 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (801) 703-3357 |
Took a rafting trip down the Weber River and UOA did a great job! The guides were very knowledgeable and friendly. The views were excellent. I would highly recommend this trip for a big group. They really know how to make sure everyone has a good time.
We couldn’t do snowshoeing because there wasn’t enough snow but Blake aka Hollywood took us on a hike in the snow. It was spectacular. We also had a 5 and 7 year old with us. He was extremely patience and kind. He showed us all the animal tracks and spotted a moose on the drive to the hike. They picked us up at our condo making everything super easy. Highly recommend and would do this over and over again!
Had the best time on the river with Jack our guide. He had good stories and was clear with directions on paddling etc. He went above and beyond. We would also like to shout out to Bob for lending our 84 year old friend Mary Ellen a hat for the trip - most kind. We three seniors had a blast and would recommend this trip and this company to anyone. And thanks to Tyler for sharing your life story and good luck with your traveling in Asia.
Utah Outdoor Adventures – Whitewater Rafting with BlakeMy husband, his aunt, and I went whitewater rafting today with Utah Outdoor Adventures, and it turned into one of the best experiences we’ve had in Utah. The whole operation was smooth from the moment we arrived — quick check‑in, well‑maintained gear, and a friendly team that made everything feel easy and relaxed.Our guide, Blake, made the day exceptional. He knows this river and the surrounding area incredibly well, and he shared so much interesting history about the canyon and how the landscape was formed. Even without wildlife sightings, the trip never felt lacking because Blake kept things engaging with stories, humor, and a calm confidence that made us feel completely at ease.The scenery was breathtaking. Floating between canyon walls, watching the light hit the water, and moving through stretches of calm followed by bursts of fun rapids created the perfect mix of peaceful and exciting. Blake didn’t talk us through every rapid — he didn’t need to. His guidance at the beginning was so clear and helpful that we quickly got the hang of paddling as a team, and the rest felt natural and fun.One of the best parts of the day was how much we laughed. Blake has great timing and an easygoing personality that made the whole raft feel comfortable. By the end, we were smiling nonstop and wishing the trip were longer.If you’re visiting Utah and want an adventure that’s beautiful, well‑run, and genuinely fun, Utah Outdoor Adventures is a fantastic choice. And if Blake is available, absolutely request him — he made our day unforgettable.
We had so much fun!!! We went for our anniversary and had Scott as our water guide. It was the perfect combination of relaxation on a beautiful day but also some fun experiences with some drops, and white water rapids! We would highly recommend doing this trip! It's worth the drive (out there) and the crew and experience! I didn't even realize they took photos for us to that was a treat in also getting back while on the water.
Gilgal Sculpture Garden
| Address | 749 E 500 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84102 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (801) 972-7860 |
Such a cool spot!! Super relaxing, with some interesting history. It seems gimmicky at first glance, but it truly is a labor if love both for the original artist and for those who maintain it now. Absolutely worth a visit!
Cool sculptures, definitely someone's take on Mormon inspired original historical art. Fun place to chill and check out.
A small, unassuming, and free attraction — but surprisingly fascinating.
To truly appreciate the history of the garden and the meaning behind the individual artworks, it’s worth walking all the way to the end first and taking time to read the photos and descriptions displayed under the covered area. Once you understand the background and how the artworks came to life, exploring the garden becomes far more enjoyable and you start to see the pieces from a completely different perspective.
One of my favorite parks in the Salt Lake area. Unique art structures and beautiful gardens. A great place to sit and contemplate!
The masonry in this place is so amazing. The flowers are beautiful. A nice peaceful stroll.
MountainBased Adventures
| Address | Salt Lake City, UT 84111 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (800) 206-7909 |
Mountainbased gave us an incredible experience from start to finish. The itinerary was so well planned, and Chad and Tyler were fantastic guides. Every detail was taken care of, from where to stay and eat to timing, hikes, and logistics, which made the trip feel seamless and stress-free. There’s no way I could have planned something like this on my own without it being exhausting. Their knowledge of the parks, geology, and surrounding towns added so much to the experience, and the views were absolutely spectacular. I’m so grateful we found Mountainbased and would highly recommend them.
We had the most amazing time camping in Yellowstone. By far one of the best trips we have ever been on. The guides were knowledgeable and worked hard for us to see the most wildlife we could in just a few short days. There's so much to see and do - we'd love to do it again! Highly recommend.
Fantastic trip with Eric and Kelly! Explored the mighty Five of Utah in their lodging trip. Very thoughtfully planned by Mountainbased, tailor made days with the most scenic hikes, excellent restaurants, delicious picnic lunches in each park, and excellent accommodations at the Red Cliffs Lodge near Moab. Our guides were great- friendly, accommodating, and got perfect strangers to open up and created camaraderie among all of us over the week. They kept us on schedule, got us to our destinations safely, and ensured our comfort and enjoyment was a top priority. It was especially helpful to have guides who have the inside track on these destinations. I highly recommend Moutainbased, and especially want to express thanks to Kelly and Eric for a fantastic week.
Just returned from MountainBased’s Utah Mighty 5 adventure with the family and had Eric and Tyler for our guides and it was simply amazing all around. They were both great with extensive experience and knowledge to answer about 99.999% of our questions throughout the journey. I think we needed to Google a question just one time! Or, maybe they were just *that* good at making things up on the spot, haha!
They truly mean it when they say they will tailor the experience to the individual. Not everyone was able to do some difficult portions so options, where applicable, were available to make sure each person was enabled to enjoy the parks to their maximum potential. I really appreciated that aspect being less athletic than others in our family. I was initially worried about the big hikes, like the one to Delicate arch, but I felt pushed to go above and beyond my comfort zone and (self-imposed?) limits without fear, judgement, or being pushed by either Eric or Tyler. That being said, support from both was always there when needed.
Also, we had two younger family members and they paid close attention to them. That was really important and I’m glad that they were extra sensitive to their needs.
It is an extremely difficult ask for either side to make new friends, gain their respect and trust every week within a very short timeframe, and then to enjoy the journey. Eric and Tyler excelled in these aspects and it was simply amazing to see how quickly they bonded with each family member.
Before our trip was over, we were already planning the next trip and hopefully bother Eric and Tyler again for another week in the near future! Highly recommend MountainBased for your outdoor adventures!
Incredible week in Utah with MountainBased! Our family of three from South Carolina (including our 9 year old son) took a trip of a lifetime and did the Mighty Five Lodging Tour with MountainBased for Spring Break 2026. Everything was absolutely perfect and exceeded our expectations.
The guides, Tyler and Chad, were so knowledgeable, patient, funny, and kind. They had everything organized and planned perfectly. Meals were so great and fresh, as well as the lodging at boutique lodges. I have a medical condition that makes me susceptible to over-heating, and both guides were considerate and made sure to consult me before any hikes, as well as check on me during the hikes.
I cannot believe all we packed into five days. It was so nice not to have to worry about meals, driving, or picking an itinerary. It was all done for us by our incredible guides. We had a group of 11, and I felt like we all became friends by the end of the trip.
I am so glad we took a chance on MountainBased and booked this trip of a lifetime. I took over 600 pictures that will help us remember and relive the trip, though the pictures will never do the incredible sights and memories full justice. It was a truly incredible landscape, and a life-affirming trip. We have all been on Cloud 9 since our return.
We are already planning our next trip with Mountainbased. Highly recommend!
Thanks, Tyler and Chad!
- The Taylor Family
International Peace Gardens of SLC
| Address | 1060 S 900 W, Salt Lake City, UT 84104 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (801) 938-5326 |
Looking for something free of charge and absolutely stunning to walk through this is your place. We love seeing all the very unique gardens all inclusive! My husband and I enjoyed this very much! Only down side is that it was a little hidden on the map. We were there when it looked like a drama club with a bunch of kids were screwing around and we couldn’t see a couple of the attractions! We’ll definitely share with friends!
This gorgeous (and free) arboretum is open until 10 pm! It's fun to learn a little about the way the various countries are represented. The first time we went was in daylight in July and everything was in full bloom. This time it was after dusk in May and it was absolutely lovely, though some of the flowers weren't blooming yet. If you're in the area, it's well worth checking out!
This is a great place to walk and enjoy some peace, in the middle of a lovely park. There are many exhibits and gardens representing different nations, from Japan and Greece to Germany and Vietnam. Everything is tasteful and carefully cultivated. I will definitely be back.
Came here in the winter, and all I can think of is the potential it would look like in the spring and summer time. I imagine it would look beautiful.
The collaboration between the city and these nations are cool to see in the art pieces displayed. It takes a lot of coordination to do something like this, and it is incredible to see.
I would recommend coming here during May to October to see it at its fullest.
The International Peace Gardens hosts a wonderful setting to reminisce about your connection to the world. We enjoyed the festivities surrounding the 17 Mai celebration(Norway's Independence). Great food and handmade artifacts for purchase. Lively music and dancing filled the air.
Sugar House Park
| Address | 1330 2100 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84106 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (385) 468-7275 |
Great park for a date! It's awesome to find a place to relax and catch some sun in the middle of the city. Really nice ropes course playground for kids of all ages.
Quite the vibe - on a gorgeous day. Plenty of parking. Lots going on - with lots to see. Plenty of shaded areas. Bathrooms were gross - but there's toilet paper. Make sure to bring water and sanitizer. Kits playground area was divine. Will definitely make it a point to visit when in the vicinity. Great walking trail to get steps in while the kids okay on the playground.
Sugar House Park is one of the best spots in Salt Lake City. The views are beautiful — open green space, a peaceful pond, and mountains in the background, especially at sunset.
What really makes it special is the energy. People are out walking, running, spending time together, and it all feels relaxed and genuine. There’s a strong sense of community without it ever feeling crowded or overwhelming.
It’s the kind of place you go to reset and just enjoy being outside. Simple, beautiful, and always a good experience.
Sugar House Park is a wonderful place to spend the day with family and friends. There's plenty of parking, making it easy to visit even on busy days. The small water stream is perfect for kids to splash around in, and dogs love cooling off there too. The playground is clean and well maintained, and there are plenty of shady trees where you can relax, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. It's a beautiful, clean park that's great for all ages. Highly recommend visiting!
A nice city park with plenty of open space to enjoy. Lots of people were out taking advantage of the beautiful day. There were even busloads of kids having lunch and doing fun activities.
A stream runs through the park, creating some very pretty spots for picture-taking. The large lake is a great feature too — the geese and ducks certainly enjoy it. Just watch out for the poop! 🦆🐾
Hidden Hollow
| Address | 1229 Wilmington Ave, Salt Lake City, UT 84106 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (801) 972-7800 |
If I could give this trail a 0 out of 5 stars, I would. This is such a terrible trail. There is Poison Ivy everywhere. It is not for kids whatsoever. I would not recommend it at all. I do not know why whoever runs it would leave the poison ivy everywhere. 😕 That place sucks so bad. I hope someone will make it acceptable sooner than later. They did have signs posted but it is still a pathetic trail. DO NOT TAKE YOUR CHILDREN THERE, YOU WILL REGRET IT.
This is a cute short loop. There were some items around the park that look like they belonged to some homeless camp, otherwise very clean and pretty. If you go all the way before it loops around you can go through and get to sugar house park. Watch out for wasps, they are around in the lower section by the apartments on the north side.
Cute little walkway/nature preserve that is located in Sugarhouse. It’s literally surrounded by shopping centers and restaurants. It’s nice break from the busy. There is a stream, lots of trees, and some animals. I enjoyed walking hidden hollow after lunch today. I highly recommend.
I stumbled upon this walking around the neighborhood and love it! I enjoyed reading the signs about the history of the park and the plants and animals of the area. It’s a gem of a spot in the city.
Hidden Hollow is an oasis in a very urban setting. It's not a hike, more like a walk to see it all. The path is smooth. My grandsons rode their scooters on it. A wheelchair would handle it easily. It's very shaded and the stream running through adds an idyllic touch.
Cross E Ranch
| Address | 3500 N 2200 W, Salt Lake City, UT 84116 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (801) 203-0148 |
One of my favorite places to go! Right outside the city, and it makes me feel like I'm back home with my Grandpa's animals. The kids always have a great time with the zip lines, rope course and giant slides! The food is great and reasonably priced. We can spend hours here! Plus, fresh Apple Cider Donuts!
I can’t say enough good things about this place. Obviously the baby animals are darling and such a joy to be around, the staff are all kind, the gentleman driving the tractor (I think Dean) took us out even though he had just completed the final ride of the evening, and Lynn at the barrel tractor ride was so sweet.
On top of that they really care about their patrons; they have free water throughout the farm, hand washing stations, complimentary bug spray and hand sanitizer. All of the attractions are covered in the price of the ticket, I was expecting to pay extra for the tractor rides.
10/10 I love this place.
Loved the corn pit, the rides is more for younger kids and so it may work out for those with little ones, The animals are just so cute. I would recommend parents with young children to go here. The donuts are sooo good and great price.
Perfect way to get the Halloween season started! We picked our own pumpkins, which I would highly recommend over getting the pre-picked ones. I think it's a better experience and it's cheaper! The apple donuts, hot cider, and slushie are incredible and don't forget the caramel apple! Such a fun time!
Such a fun night at their Fall Festival! The cinnamon sugar donuts are 💯 worth it. I am not a donut person and I had one and my stomach was not upset at all! It was heavenly! There was a lot of fun things to do. We did the evening cheaper tickets and had such a great time. The only downside was that the corn maze was muddy. It was still fun but we weren't prepared for that! We also had to use our phone flashlights! It was nice going late because we hardly had to wait for anything and had a great time as adults. This would also be fantastic for kids!!!
Outdoor Mavens
| Address | 751 E 900 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84105 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (801) 833-0807 |
We had the best trip planned by Traci at Outdoor Mavens, curated to our likes and abilities! Traci planned and accompanied us on our week long trip to Jackson Hole, Wyoming and Yellowstone National Park. Could not have had a better time or have seen and done all that we did if it was not for Traci and the activities she planned for us!! Highlights were an amazing 2 1/2 hour horseback ride in Jackson Hole, and the spectacular sights in Yellowstone. We would highly recommend Outdoor Mavens to plan your getaway and perhaps be your guide. Extremely knowledgeable and reliable. Definitely use them again.
Traci was one of the best adventure guides I’ve had. She was attentive and found creative ways to incorporate nature into the unique nature of the trip. From bike riding in the grand Tetons to horseback riding at the coziest farm right outside the Tetons and relaxing in the hot springs. I couldn’t have asked for a better way to see Wyoming. The lunches were so tasty and healthy and you always had snacks. Along with this she was an amazing person to get to know, and someone I would call a friend now.
Traci and the Outdoor Mavens crew are experts at their craft! Everything was amazingly organized. The food was fantastic with options for dietary restrictions. The retreat I attended was a perfect balance of outdoor activity, free time, and embodiment practices. I rested, healed, laughed, cried, and made friends for life! I highly recommend Outdoor Mavens and look forward to working with them again in the future!
For context, I contacted the Outdoor Mavens while planing a trip from Australia to the Wind River Range in Wyoming for my 2 teenage kids and myself. I was coming in hot and had done little to prepare yet Traci and the team at Outdoor Mavens came through with suggestions and a custom package that worked perfectly. Tents, backpacks, stove, sleeping bags and pads, etc. The gear was quality and in good condition some of it brand new. Traci was responsive over WhatsApp and email and pickup/dropoff was seamless.
Based on my experience I would highly rate Outdoor Mavens and will use them in the future. Thank you!
Outdoor Mavens made our family spring break trip to Utah possible. We flew in from the East Coast. Traci got our family of six set up with a full kit for camping and cooking in Utah’s National Parks for eight days. It was a fantastic visit to the Utah desert that wouldn’t have been possible without Outdoor Mavens to supply us with the necessary gear.
Red Butte Garden and Arboretum
| Address | 300 S Wakara Wy, Salt Lake City, UT 84108 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (801) 585-0556 |
We recently hosted a Pictureline photo walk at Red Butte Garden, and it was an incredible experience from start to finish. The gardens are beautifully maintained, with an amazing variety of flowers, landscapes, and scenic paths that made it a perfect location for photographers of every skill level.
The staff was welcoming, and the entire venue was peaceful, clean, and easy to explore. There were endless opportunities to capture beautiful images, and everyone in our group had a great time discovering new compositions throughout the gardens.
Whether you’re a photographer looking for inspiration or simply want to enjoy a relaxing day surrounded by nature, I highly recommend visiting Red Butte Garden. We’ll definitely be back for another photo walk!
Beautiful garden with many areas. There is a fragrance garden, rose garden, and water wise conservation garden, among others. My favorite is the water wise garden area, which has so many beautiful plants that grow locally. There are many trails to walk through. We went on a free day that was also a holiday. Despite there being many guests, it did not feel crowded and was a beautiful day. It is easy to spend as much time here as you want.
Nice gardens with alot of variety. A paved path through all of the garden highlights so people with ADA needs can visit most everything. There are a few nature trails by the meadow that you can hike and through the more hilly areas. Fun children's garden for kids to explore. Ponds with fish to enjoy watching. Worth a visit. Bring some water or a reusable water bottle and fill up at the visitor center fountain., you will need it. If its hot especially Drink more water than you think you need.
If going in spring or fall and its hot during the day, it quickly can get cold and or windy as it nears late afternoon and sunset, so bring a jacket just in case so you won't feel cold.
It's high altitude so be aware if you aren't local and used to it. I recommend the visit either way, beautiful views and nature. Parking can get hard when its peak season, especially on event days. Plan ahead for traffic and circling the lot to find a place to park or have to hike to get parking elsewhere.
Totally Beautiful and serene place to meander and enjoy. The entire area is so well kept. There are bridges to walk over, stones in the little creek you can pass over. There are several benches along the way you can take a rest on. This place is great for all ages. Watch for the hummingbirds, lizard and all the birds that call this place home. Don’t miss stopping by, you won’t be disappointed 🦋🦉🐦⬛🐝🐞🐿️🐾🍄🌺
A beautiful and wonderfully maintained garden and arboretum overlooking the Salt Lake Valley. It mostly contains local flora, so don't expect a corpse flower in a huge greenhouse. But do expect a wonderful walkabout and a colorful display. In summer go early.
Liberty Park
| Address | 600 Harvey Milk Blvd, Salt Lake City, UT 84105 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (801) 972-7800 |
Beautiful park. Gazebos everywhere. Ducks all over the place, but mostly by the water. Lots of athletic spots. Tennis, volleyball, etc. Parking spots galore. Definitely a great spot.
Showed up just in time to read the swings before they closed, This park is so nice, It definitely needs work but it's probably because we don't have any money for parks and other things that matter to people anymore. Hopefully the government will start funding things so that it can be appropriately maintenance and so that the regular bathrooms can be reopened instead of having to use porta potties.
Trees are tall and green, its relaxing to sit by the benches. There are swans on the lake. Some parts of the hills are not well maintained, the lake needs cleaning, the water fountain is dry.
VERY VERY pretty but almost completely taken over, unfortunately, by the homeless. Three stars for the beauty but I would probably not recommend if you are a woman or walking alone. That's just me personally. They do have a TON of parking and pavilions and lots & lots of tables for picnics but just felt very unsafe. The homeless were honestly overtaking the park. They had set up their world within the park. It was like the non-homeless were invading. That said, the park was GORGEOUS. Great walking path and the sights were beautiful. Lots of water with wildlife and the beautiful SLC mountains in the back. HUGE loop with smooth, pavement. I'm glad I went - but would not go back and only visited once in my extended stay in the area.
There are numerous activities available like basketball, tennis, grass to lay down on, pedal boats to pay for a certain amount of time in, and a play area for kids.
Memory Grove
| Address | 300 N Canyon Rd, Salt Lake City, UT 84103 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (801) 972-7800 |
Beautiful solemn park. Many memorials to the fallen soldiers sailors airmen and marines of past battles. City creek flows through it. Many benches to rest. There is a path up to the capital.
⭐️ Memory Grove Park – Peaceful and Beautiful Spot Near the Utah State Capitol 🇺🇸🌳
A very well-kept and peaceful park just below the Utah State Capitol. 🌿
There are large grassy areas, plenty of benches to sit and relax, and small streams and ponds running through the park. 💧
You can walk directly down the stairs from the Capitol and explore the monuments, fountains, and memorials along the way — including tributes honoring fallen soldiers. 🕊️
Free entry, scenic views, and calm atmosphere make it a perfect stop for a relaxing walk or quiet reflection. 🏞️✨
I visited from Florida to meet my long distance boyfriend for the first time. After ensign peak, this is the second trail he took me on.
The park was beautiful, families having picnics, lovely memorials on the trail and so many dogs a long the trail as well. I’m from Florida so at most we have small hills, I’ve been on plenty of trails down here but nothing compares to Utah. The trails are so clean and well maintained. It made me appreciate Mother Nature so much more. There was a bunch of creeks with little waterfalls and even though they were tiny, I’d never seen a waterfall in my life so I was just in awe taking in all the gorgeous views. Saw many dogs jumping in the water, and running along the trail. Such divine nature, kind people, and the prettiest dogs of all different breeds. If you ever visit Utah I recommend this trail a long with ensign peak because they are definitely beginner trails.
I’ll be back in November though and I am so ready to take on the harder trails and hikes.
I really had so much fun! Thank you Utah for all your picture perfect views!
We went to an art installation featuring art and music about the dying Great Salt Lake. It was really cool. We will be back! Beautiful jewel in the heart of Salt Lake City.
One of the many parks in Salt Lake City, located not too far from the Capitol building. It was busy with people and lots of dogs (all getting along and having fun). A stream cuts through the park, creating a relaxing and peaceful space.
There are several displays that commemorate the spirit of freedom and liberty in our country. The installations invite you to reflect on these foundational ideas.
Some of the installations were in disrepair and could benefit from some TLC. Still, it’s worth a visit.
Tips for Enjoying Salt Lake City’s Outdoors
To make the most of your time in the high desert and alpine environments, a little preparation goes a long way. The difference between a good outdoor adventure and a great one often comes down to timing, gear, and respect for the local ecosystem. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned local looking to refine your routine, these practical strategies will help you navigate the terrain safely and comfortably.
1. Start Early to Beat the Heat and Crowds
During the summer months, the afternoon sun in the high desert can be relentless, with temperatures soaring into the 90s. Plan to begin your hikes or bike rides before 8:00 AM. This not only helps you avoid heat exhaustion but also ensures you find parking at popular trailheads and enjoy the solitude of the trails before the midday rush.
2. Hydrate Like a Local
The combination of high altitude and arid air dehydrates the body much faster than you might expect. You should drink water before you feel thirsty, and it is wise to carry more than you think you need. Adding an electrolyte supplement to your water bottle can help combat altitude headaches and muscle cramps, especially if you are visiting from sea level.
3. Respect the Altitude
Many of the canyons near the city sit well above 5,000 feet, with peaks reaching over 11,000 feet. If you are new to the area, give your body time to acclimatize. Shortness of breath and dizziness are common symptoms of altitude sickness. Do not push yourself too hard on your first day; choose a moderate trail and save the summit attempts for later in your trip.
4. Pack for Four Seasons in One Day
Mountain weather in Utah is famously unpredictable. A sunny, warm morning can quickly turn into a chilly, windy afternoon with thunderstorms, particularly in the summer. Always bring a lightweight, waterproof shell and an extra layer, even if the forecast looks perfect. This is especially critical if you are entering the high country or slot canyons.
5. Practice Leave No Trace
The ecosystems in the Wasatch Range are fragile and heavily trafficked. Stay on marked trails to prevent erosion and avoid trampling delicate wildflowers. Pack out all trash, including organic waste like banana peels or apple cores, as they take a long time to decompose in the dry climate. If you encounter wildlife, observe from a safe distance and never feed the animals.
The beauty of Salt Lake City is that you do not have to choose between a vibrant urban life and a connection to the natural world. You can spend the morning summiting a peak and the afternoon enjoying a craft brewery downtown. This seamless integration of city and wild is what makes the region such a unique place to live and visit.
As the seasons change, the landscape transforms, offering a new perspective on familiar trails. Whether you are floating on a reservoir in July or snowshoeing through a silent forest in January, the outdoors here provides a grounding sense of peace. So step outside, take a deep breath of the crisp mountain air, and discover why so many people fall in love with this outdoor haven.
