Best Hikes Near Salt Lake City

Here are forty-two of the best hikes, nearly all of them within an hour’s drive of Salt Lake City, Utah—from Deseret Peak to Waterfall Canyon. The hikes offer unbeatable views, waterfalls, mountain lakes, and fields of wildflowers. Whether you’re in the mood for an easy nature walk or a day-long hike, this guide offers plenty to choose from:

Deseret Peak – Highest peak in the Stansbury Range
Frary Peak – Highest peak on Antelope Island
Brighton Lakes Tour – World-class wildflower displays
Ferguson Canyon – The lesser known canyon
Mount Timpanogos – The beloved trail of the Wasatch
Diamond Fork Hot Springs – Natural hot springs

Each hike features full-color photos; a brief route description; thorough directions to the trailhead (GPS coordinates included); a detailed, full-color trail map; and at-a-glance information on distance and difficulty level, hiking time, canine compatibility, and fees and permits. Inside you’ll also find a Trail Finder that categorizes each hike (e.g., for attractions such as best hikes for peak baggers, best view hikes, best easy access hikes, best hikes for dogs, best hikes for children, and best hikes for waterfalls); Green Tips; and information about local lore, points of interest, and the area’s array of wildlife.