Ensign Peak near Salt Lake City

Nature is always close by here in Utah, even if you live in the city. This relatively short but steep hike begins in a quiet neighborhood just above the Utah State Capitol and will reward you with stunning views of the Salt Lake Valley.

With our state holiday (July 24 is Pioneer Day) just around the corner, what better hike to explore than the one the Mormon pioneers took just two days after arriving in the Salt Lake Valley in 1847?

View from the top of Ensign Peak

A Bit of Background

On July 26, 1847, just two days after their arrival, Brigham Young and a small group of Mormon pioneers climbed this very hill. At the summit, they raised an ensign (flag), a symbolic gesture representing the future gathering of Latter-day Saints and the establishment of their new community in the valley below. From the top, they surveyed the land that would become Salt Lake City. Today, the hill and its surrounding area are part of a nature preserve, open for everyone to enjoy.

Hiking to the top of Ensign Peak

After parking along the street in this peaceful neighborhood above the Utah State Capitol, make your way to the trailhead. You’ll first come across a small semi-circular plaza with informational plaques on the history of the area. From there, the trail continues up the hill to the right. This first portion (up to Vista Mound) is paved and accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.

Follow the paved path to the first overlook, Vista Mound. If you choose to call it a day here, great! The view of the city is already impressive from this point. It’s also a nice place to catch your breath before continuing on.

From Vista Mound, the trail becomes unpaved and steeper, but still well-maintained. You'll find a few resting spots with benches and informative plaques along the way. Be aware that there’s little to no shade. If you’re hiking in summer, I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the heat.

The Ensign Peak Monument, which marks the end of the trail, is visible for most of the hike. Once you reach the top, take your time exploring the overlook structure. The views are breathtaking: to the south, the Salt Lake Valley; to the east, the Wasatch Mountains; and to the west, the Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island.

It’s absolutely worth the climb. My son and I started the hike around 8:15 a.m. on a summer day before the heat set in. It was a peaceful hike as there weren't many people around, so I took my sweet time taking in the surrounding. But next time I’d love to go at sunset... those views must be even more spectacular!

According to AllTrails this is a moderately challenging hike.

The details:

• Distance: 0.9 miles (1.44 km) out-and-back

• Elevation Gain: 374 feet (113 meters)

• Trailhead Location: 1002 N. Ensign Vista Drive, Salt Lake City

  (Please be respectful, this is a residential area. Don’t block driveways.)

• Facilities: None, so plan ahead

• Dogs are allowed on leash

• Best Time: this trail is accessible year round. Early morning is best during the hot summer months. In winter, check for trail conditions (snow and ice could be present). And sunset hikes are always a good idea!

• Extras: Spectacular views, historical markers, and a great city escape

As always, practice Leave No Trace principles and help preserve this special place for others to enjoy.