Nestled against the dramatic backdrop of the Wasatch Range, Salt Lake City is a geographic marvel. Few metropolitan areas in the United States offer such immediate access to pristine alpine environments, salt-crusted deserts, and crystalline waters. While the city itself is rich in culture and history, the true magic often lies just beyond the city limits, where the pavement ends and the landscape takes over.
The unique geography of the Salt Lake Valley creates a phenomenon known as the "Greatest Snow on Earth," but the region’s allure extends far beyond the ski resorts. Within a two-hour drive, you can transition from high-altitude pine forests to arid, otherworldly salt flats. This diversity makes the area a year-round playground for outdoor enthusiasts, photographers, and families looking for a quick escape from the urban grid.
However, the popularity of the region means that some trails and viewpoints can become crowded, especially during peak summer weekends and the autumn leaf-peeping season. To truly appreciate the natural splendor surrounding the city, it is essential to know where to go and when to go there. Planning ahead allows you to find solitude in the mountains or witness the unique wildlife that thrives in the wetlands.
This guide focuses on accessibility and scenic value, curating locations that offer the highest visual payoff for the least amount of logistical hassle. Whether you are a local looking for a new weekend adventure or a visitor wanting to maximize your time, these destinations provide a comprehensive snapshot of Utah’s diverse ecology. From mirror-like lakes to towering granite peaks, the variety is staggering.
Before you fill up the gas tank, it is worth considering the timing of your excursion. Many of the high-altitude locations are inaccessible during the winter months due to snowpack, while the desert locations are dangerously hot in July and August. The shoulder seasons—spring and fall—often provide the most comfortable temperatures and the most dramatic lighting for photography.
Below is a curated list of the most breathtaking and accessible scenic spots in the greater Salt Lake area. These locations have been selected for their unique geological features, photographic potential, and the distinct experiences they offer compared to the urban center of the city.
Memory Grove
| Address | 300 N Canyon Rd, Salt Lake City, UT 84103 |
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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) 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.
This Is The Place Heritage Park
| Address | 2601 Sunnyside Ave S, Salt Lake City, UT 84108 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (801) 582-1847 |
We took our Primary group here for a day camp, and it was fantastic! I highly recommend it. It was very affordable, and they got to push handcarts, do pioneer chores, attend pioneer school, pan for gold, ride ponies, and learn about early hospitals. There was way more to do than what we could fit in one day. There was a playground, restroom, and picnic area that we used for lunch.
I’m amazed at what the experience this place has to offer. If you didn’t know, the reason it’s called This Is The Place is because LDS Prophet Brigham Young said to the pioneers when they arrived in Salt Lake City that “This is the right place.” The staff were super friendly and super knowledgeable. The activities were pioneer-themed, such as panning for gold (Fools’ Gold, did you think it was real?) They’ve got a blacksmith, trains offering tours around the park, and so much more I can’t even begin to list. Overall, 10/10 HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
I had my wedding reception at the Garden Place & I couldn’t be happier with my choice of venue. The staff were extremely helpful, supportive & very kind the day of & during all the time leading up to the big day. The Garden Place is so stunning, had plenty of space to host all of our guests! My favorite part of this venue is the option to be inside or out & I think our guests enjoyed that as well!
Great place to visit if your a Mormon, history buff or want to spend time with your family and kids. There are train rides, visiting historic buildingd, petting animals, bakeshop and souvenir stores to see. It features the early history of Salt Lake and there are plenty to explore so spend atleast half a day or more here.
Depends on the weather or time of the week, as activities vary depending on the number of volunteers they have available. There tends to be better activities on Pioneer Day or on weekends in the summer. Overall, a fun, family-friendly place to learn about Utah and Mormon Heritage.
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! 🦆🐾
Ensign Peak Nature Park
| Address | 1002 Ensign Vista Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84103 |
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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) 972-7800 |
The path is paved up to the first lookout point and then just a normal hiking trail the rest of the way up. It is a little steep and slightly windy at the top, but that is to be expected. The view of the valley from the top is awesome. Dog friendly hike and I imagine children could manage it as well.
This is for the sunrise strictly; no hiking but next time im up there im definitely hiking this beautiful mountain! 🥰 BUT OH THE GIFT OF ANOTHER DAY IS CRAZY BEAUTIFUL! To be thankful is inevitable; and boy this view is an example of it! 🥰 I’ve lived in Utah for 24yrs and I’ve always loved a beautiful sky even on an ugly day! And to see the sunrise for the first time the way I got to here was amazing 🥹 definitely going back for the sunset and a hike 🥰
Great view once you get to the top....if the smog isn't obscuring the valley
It's a steep hike in some parts but the view at the top is great!
I love coming up here. The trails are well defined with easy access to the trailhead. It's close to home doesn't take long to get to the trail head. I noticed some new maintenance work done on the trail which is nice. It's good for a short hike or the beginning of a long hike up into the mountains.
Pony Express National Historic Trail
| Address | 2423-2599 Sunnyside Ave S, Salt Lake City, UT 84108 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (505) 988-6098 |
I had such an amazing experience horseback riding here! Within 20 minutes of calling, they were able to get me on a horse and out riding, which was incredible and so appreciated. The staff was friendly, accommodating, and made everything feel easy and comfortable. The horses were well cared for, calm, and perfect for a relaxing ride. I couldn’t have asked for a better last-minute experience and would absolutely recommend this place to anyone looking for a great horseback riding adventure!
Monument to the Pony Express and a recreated cabin where they stayed. Theres also an interpretive panel around the area explaining its history.
Accessible site displaying some very interesting Pony Express history, worth stopping by for anybody curious about this legendary service of the frontier.
While in Salt Lake City in September as part of a cross country road trip, took about 15 minutes to see the national pony express monument. I’ve always been fascinated by the history of the west including the pony express. There are multiple informational boards explaining how the pony express operated. If you are in the area and a history buff, worth the time to see.
Lovely little spot with a beautiful statue and informative signs. There is also a recreated cabin here.
Liberty Park
| Address | 600 Harvey Milk Blvd, Salt Lake City, UT 84105 |
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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) 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.
City Creek Park
| Address | 100 N State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84103 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (801) 972-7860 |
very pretty small senic park. Great for sitting or walking around. Has free off the street parking. There is a beautiful pond in the middle with ducks and benches to sit.
This is a beautiful park that's perfect for a peaceful walk or a relaxing break outdoors. The tree-lined paths, flowing creek, and open green spaces create a calm atmosphere that's easy to enjoy. It's a great place to take in nature, have a picnic, or simply unwind while listening to the water. With its scenic setting and well-kept grounds, it's a wonderful spot for anyone looking to escape the busy pace of the city for a while.
One of the best spots in the city to relax and reset. The creek running through the park gives it a really peaceful vibe, and everything is clean and well maintained. Great for walking, clearing your mind, or just enjoying some quiet time in nature. Plenty of space to sit, hang out, or have a picnic. Definitely a go-to spot if you’re in the area.
A beautiful little park located south to Utah State Capitol.
Perfect park to start off your trail run into the mountains. There is a lot of elevation gain at the start but it is worth the sore legs once you get to the top. I would caution to stay on the trail, I ventured off on some side trails and ended up in a couple homeless encampments.
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.
Washington Square
| Address | 451 S State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111 |
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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) 972-7800 |
Really beautiful park! Gorgeous trees, plenty of space to move around, lovely flower gardens, all wrapped around a truly stunning building. Fun art in the parking lot. Something for everyone. Even saw some squirrels.
Went here for their art festival, very nice, enough places to park and reasonably priced.
I absolutely love visiting Washington Square. That's definitely a highlight of downtown Salt Lake that you must see.
No bump into people from all over the world visiting the beautiful historic building. I often get asked questions about it from people from all over the us as well as the world.
There are plenty of paved pathways and 6 beautiful circular floral gardens. It's a beautiful building to take engagement pictures, I see a lot of high school graduation pictures taken here too.
Their security here is on point and the very best in the city. This is where the mayor of Salt Lake city's office is as well. So it is the city and county building.
If you decide to bring your dog, they will love it! Please remember to keep your dog on a leash at all times and to pick up after them.
Love the art of lights 😍❤️😍 you can't never be disappointed !!!
Park near the city hall in Salt Lake City. Unfortunately it is not maintained and not clean however it is worth the visit
Ensign Peak
| Address | Ensign Peak Trail, Salt Lake City, UT 84103 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (801) 972-7800 |
Found this on a Chamber of Commerce website. The tag was "easy hike". Could NOT agree with that statement! This was a BEAST. Doable, yes, but not "easy" by any means! This park was hidden in the middle of a (GORGEOUS) neighborhood. Easy directions on Google and brought me directly to the spot. There are 2 hikes available - an "easy" and "difficult". I went the easy route - YIKES! The hill is TOUGH. It's rough terrain at times and can be slick (yes, I did slide on the rocks coming down). There are spots there is enough room for 1 foot in front of the other - not side by side. It is a beautiful park and well maintained but just know it's not easy. The views are 100% worth it - if you can pace yourself on the way up and know the way down, the rocks/rubble is slick. Just before the peak, the top - there is a landing spot with a bench. Those views are GORGEOUS. Easy enough to do alone, I felt safe at all times and I was alone - just consider yourself warned. There are no bathrooms or water and remember, you're nestled in the middle of a neighborhood - so if you need a bathroom, it will take you a min to get out of the neighborhood and to a place with a restroom. I did this nice and slow & did end up doing it twice in my 1 visit but I was paying for it several days later (in the best possible way) and my elbow and hand healed nicely - post spill. 10 out of 10 recommend. Safe. Clean. Intense. GREAT VIEWS.
Good short steep hike but it is very very hot and there’s no shade. Good view of the valley from the top
Went here for the Fourth of July and the view was phenomenal. The hike is short and steep but we managed it in about 20 minutes.
There is a good amount of street parking but depending where you park that is all up hill as well. We took an uber to the base of the hike and that worked out great!
This hike is a true Salt Lake City, Utah gem! The hike is short and labeled as easy on the All Trails app. I have visited this hike for years! I’ve done it solo. I’ve been in groups of friends. I have taken dates. Now I take my son. The views are phenomenal. The trail is well maintained and well marked. This is a great option for a quick get away as it is an easy trail to access as it is directly behind the Utah State Capital building. I highly recommend this hike for everyone Utahns and visitors alike. You will not be disappointed.
This is a fun short hike. It will take about 20 minutes to get to Ensign Peak. It is very steep. There are very few trees on the trail so there is not a lot of shade. However, there were lots of little cubes along the way if you wanted to sit down and rest. Of course, the reason you come on this hike is for the incredible view of the Salt Lake Valley which is a lot of fun.
Millcreek Canyon
| Address | 3800 Mill Creek Canyon Rd, Salt Lake City, UT 84124 |
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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 | (385) 468-7275 |
Millcreek Canyon is one our our go-to hiking areas near SLC. There are trails of varying difficulty - most of which can be found on the All Trails app. Shortly after entering the canyon and passing the toll booth, you will likely lose cell service so plan accordingly. There are some campground restrooms throughout the canyon.
Dogs are allowed in the canyon. Odd numbered days are off leash days and even numbered days dogs must be on leash. Bikers are not allowed in the canyon on odd numbered days although you might still see them.
My favorite hike is up to Dog Lake. I do it multiple times a year. Such a fun, beautiful hike. It’s moderately hard but my 3 boys can do it (13,10,6). Took us about 4 hours including stopping at the top by the lake for lunch. This last time we went (mid July) the flies were HORRIBLE! I have never experienced that before.
Complete rip off!! I was charged $5 on a motorcycle for a 8 minute ride up and back. The canyon was closes about 2 miles up you so why was i charged full price. They take the money on the way out, its a scam they know if they took it on the way up, 50% of people would turn around. The lady was rude!
Beautiful canyon with lots of places to stop and picnic or hike. We found a nice picnic area with waterfalls and easy access. Lots of pine trees, rock formations, and flowing waters.
It's a beautiful place to visit for hiking or a casual stroll. You can bring dogs with leaches. The winding roads are gorgeous and and allow for a gorgeous view of the rock formations on the mountains, streams, trees and their beautiful leaves
The Living Room Trailhead
| Address | 383 Colorow Rd, Salt Lake City, UT 84108 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
This trail is a steady climb for most of it- it levels off with about 200m remaining. Make sure you sit in all of the rock chairs! It’s shaded for the first part and then if you go before 10am, there’s shade along most of the trail. Warm up those calves!!!
I love a difficult trail, so this was right up my alley! The first ~2 miles is a challenge between the elevation and the steep uphill climb. Then when things level out you end up climbing through the ridge tops with tricky footing. The views are fantastic pretty much the whole time. Highly recommend!!
Nice hike and great views of the Salt Lake Valley. Not a lot of shade or tree cover, a decently step climb. Close to the University and the hospital. 3 hour on street parking available.
Fun hike up in the hills of SLC. It is rocky and a continuous climb. We struggled some due to elevation (we live in Tezas, at sea level) but made it. Hiking poles would help on the way down.
A steady 45 minutes of incline hiking with a gorgeous view at the top!
We did the hike shortly after landing in Utah and the altitude definitely got to us. Your calves will feel this one for sure too!!
The top was pretty cool with all of the “living room furniture” made from rocks. The view was really, but unfortunately, our sunset hike was a little bit overcast.
would recommend going on a really clear night for Sunset 🙂
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.
Lower City Creek Nature Park
| Address | 950 N City Crk Cyn, Salt Lake City, UT 84103 |
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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 | (801) 972-7800 |
It was my first time riding my mountain bike this weekend around the city creek canyon area and memory grove. There were a few people hiking and riding road bikes but definitely not crowded at all. Spent -4hrs and looking forward to get back again to bike and hike around more.
Absolutely wonderful area to walk, hike, explore, jog, bike ride, and take the dogs out for a walk. Lots of trails for all fitness levels. Guards at gate are friendly and helpful when available. Numerous trails available which are not on any maps. A variety of animals roaming at times if you happen to be lucky enough to spot them. Lots of picnic tables, restroom, and water fountain for use on paved road near the stream. Nice place to relax near the stream at the picnic tables at times. The tables are located about 3 every 1/2 mile on paved road. The road is 5 miles up to the rotary club park. There are 30 picnic tables up to the end at 5 miles which evens out to roughly 6 per mile and 3 per a half mile. There are some markers for the first 2.5 miles that mark each 0.5 miles up road from the guard post. During main season around June to October they alternate days between allowing cars and bicycles on the road. Even days are cars since most holidays are on even days. Odd days bicycles are allowed. Pedestrian are allowed any times. The area is open daily until 10pm. The restrooms close at 6pm during off-season and 10pm otherwise. During off-season both bicycles and pedestrian are allowed to use paved road and it remains closed to vehicles except for the main season. A few miles away for one week only in October there are deer hunting. Water is turned off from around December? until May due to weather and freezing of pipes. A must visit in fall when the leaves change color and at sunrise or sunset and view the color of rising/setting sun across the valley to the South.
The only thing to keep in mind is that after spending some time in the natural area or it's trails, a person might enjoy it enough that they fall in love with the area due to the wonderful aspects it provides.
Great walking and biking trail system. Paved trails are easy to navigate. 6 ft leash max length for dogs and lots of walkers and bicyclists.
Gorgeous spot for a paved autumn bike ride! The beautiful foliage and ease of access make this a must-see for my fall bike-rides. Added bonus: so many monarch butterflies!
Took my e-bike + 2 kids in trailer up the 5.5 mile trail that has a steady incline, especially at the end. It follows the creek so you’re accompanied by the pleasant sound of flowing water the whole way. Public restrooms and picnic areas are available all along the path.
The gate closes October 1, so no cars to worry about! Lots of walkers and joggers. From my understanding the protocol is uphill traffic right, downhill traffic left. Bikers should note the 15 mph speed limit Parking is pretty limited but you can park along Bonneville Blvd. if needed.
Awesome place! Totally recommend for a nice walk, take the dog, bike it, or even grab a longboard if your feeling it. Great place that's close to the city, like 5 minutes from downtown close.
Tunnel Springs Park
| Address | 1080 Eaglepointe Dr, North Salt Lake, UT 84054 |
|---|---|
| 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) 335-8726 |
Beautiful park, never a bad view. Seems like there’s always several groups doing family pictures and there’s plenty of space. Paved trail around grass field and playground makes it a great place to exercise while the kids play. There’s also easy access to hiking trails. Minus a star for people that ignore the signs indicating dogs must be leashed. As a result, there is dog poop on the field that is not cleaned up. And to address the other reviews that say there is nowhere to put bagged dog poop, there is, there’s a dumpster for it right by the bags. As someone who has been bitten by a dog (and as a dog owner myself) I would appreciate if other park visitors would respect the leash rule. In total I counted 5 signs that indicated dogs must be leashed!
Amazing park for activities and bringing dogs, HOWEVER there are no trash cans to throw away dog poop. INSANE. I'm not carrying my poop inside my car out sorry, this leads to a lot of poop left on the trails which also sucks. They have a station that provides poop bags but no receptical...
Great park! It offers lots of things to do. It has perfect views from the mountain side, play ground, soccer field, large shelter, bathrooms and entrance to a trail head.
Absolutely beautiful. Went there for my daughter's bridals. MANY other people there for photos as well, but there was plenty of space for all of us.
Nice hike good view of North and south SLC..
Tips for Visiting Scenic Spots Around Salt Lake City
Exploring the diverse terrains of Northern Utah requires a bit more preparation than a standard city tour. The rapid changes in elevation and climate can catch first-time visitors off guard. By following a few local best practices, you can ensure your scenic adventure is both safe and enjoyable, allowing you to focus on the beauty rather than the logistics.
Check the weather by elevation, not just by city. Salt Lake City may be sunny and warm, but the canyons can be 20 degrees colder with sudden thunderstorms. Always check the specific forecast for the canyon or summit you plan to visit, as afternoon monsoons are common in the summer months.
Arrive early to secure parking. The most popular canyons, particularly Big and Little Cottonwood, fill up quickly on weekends and holidays. Trailhead parking lots are often full by 8:00 AM. Arriving at sunrise not only guarantees a spot but also treats you to the best lighting for photography and wildlife viewing.
Practice strict Leave No Trace principles. The high alpine environment is incredibly fragile. Pack out everything you pack in, stay on designated trails to prevent erosion, and never approach or feed wildlife. Moose are common in the canyons and can be dangerous if startled.
Carry water and sun protection, even in winter. The high altitude and low humidity lead to rapid dehydration. The sun’s rays are also significantly stronger at elevation. Regardless of the season, carry more water than you think you need and apply sunscreen, even when the air feels cool.
Respect the watershed restrictions. Many of the canyons near Salt Lake City are protected watershed areas that supply drinking water to the valley. This means dogs and swimming are often prohibited in specific streams and reservoirs. Look for signage at the canyon mouth to ensure you are following local regulations.
The landscape surrounding Salt Lake City offers a rare opportunity to witness the raw power of geology in a single afternoon. From the quiet reflection of a glacial lake to the stark white expanse of ancient seabeds, these destinations provide a profound sense of scale and perspective. They remind us that the urban oasis of the valley is just a small part of a much larger, wilder story.
Taking the time to explore these scenic places is more than just a photo opportunity; it is a way to understand the character of the Intermountain West. The contrast between the bustling city grid and the silent, towering peaks is what makes this region so uniquely livable. So pack your gear, respect the land, and discover why so many people who visit Salt Lake City end up staying for a lifetime.
