Salt Lake Overlook via Desolation Trail

Salt Lake City, Utah

4.1/5
based on 8 reviews

Details

Distance

4.76 miles

Elevation Gain

1729 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Rebecca Stubbs

Salt Lake Overlook via Desolation Trail offers great views of Mill Creek Canyon throughout the trail. The hike is 4.75 miles roundtrip with a 1700' elevation gain. You can let your dog off leash on this hike.

This popular trail follows a portion of the Desolation Trail leaving from Mill Creek Canyon. The trail to the overlook is 4.75 miles round trip with a 1700 ft elevation gain. You begin at the Desolation Trailhead and then turn around once you have a view of the Salt Lake Valley. It is a perfect hike to do in the evening after work because it is so short and very near the city. It is also wonderful because dogs can be off leash on odd days in this canyon and they love that.

It is a popular trail year round. I have done it multiple times in every season and they are all great! In fact, in the winter, since so many people snowshoe it, all you need is crampons because it is so packed down. Fall is definitely my favorite time though, crowds are smaller, weather cooler and the leaves in this canyon are amazing! I have included one photo from each season.

The entire trail consists of long gradual switchbacks and a majority of the trail is shaded. There are great views of Mill Creek Canyon throughout the trail and the view of the city is fantastic. This is a great place to watch the sunset and because of its proximity to Salt Lake City, it's a good after work hike.

Read More

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app
Download GPX File

Features

Fitness
Photography
Running
Hiking
Bathrooms
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
Groups
Picnic Area
Romantic
Scenic
Wildflowers

Salt Lake Overlook via Desolation Trail Reviews

Just did this hike a few days back and it's perfect right now! Most the snow has melted and only a few patches left on the trail.

Excellent short day hike, very entertaining to continue the trail up to Thaynes Peak and Gobblers knob!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Hike Thayne Canyon

Grandeur Peak East Trail

Hike Porter Fork, Millcreek Canyon

Trail Run Burch Hollow Trail

Hike Bowman Fork to Baker Pass

Hike Mt. Aire