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Summary: This is a nice, easy trail most hikers, regardless of age or experience, would find enjoyable. The trail is well maintained and the awesome views of the Salt Lake Valley below begin almost immediately. The trail winds behind the peak and ascends up a moderate slope on the back side. The views from the back side are incredible, especially at sunset. The Great Salt Lake can be seen in the distance to the northwest. As you climb to the peak, the entire Salt Lake Valley can be seen below. The view from Ensign Peak is spectacular anytime, but sunset is by far the most ideal time for this hike. The view of the sunset combined with the cool evening breeze and the glittering city lights below make this a hike well worth taking and the minimal time and effort involved make it worth taking often! Trailhead: Make your way to the State Capitol Building. Do this by traveling State Street from downtown, which will take you past the Capitol on the west side. Take the cross street either in front of or behind the Capitol complex until you reach East Capitol Blvd. Turn left and drive north through the residential area until you reach North Sandrun Drive (940 N) and turn left on that road. Drive about 1 block and the road "forks". In the middle of the fork is an LDS meetinghouse. Take the right fork, which runs behind the church. The trailhead is about 1/2 block further on the right hand side and is a developed, easily identifiable trailhead. (Lat:40.79185 Lon:-111.88825) Trail Guides for Ensign Peak Trail and Overlook: Hiking the Wasatch by John Veranth (University of Utah Press) Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Summer, User Groups: Hikers, Ranger Contact: Wasatch-Cache National Forest (801) 466-6411 Tu-Sa 10:30a-7:00p MT Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Troy Slater, who has posted 9 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Page 1 of 2 Submit your own review This was a short hike, even doable for someone out of shape like me. :) The trail was clearly marked, easy to follow, the scenery was amazing, and it doesn't take very long at all. I would suggest, for those who hike it during the summer, to go when it's still cool outside, since there isn't a whole lot of shade on this trail, but there are several rest points, some of which have shade. However, I can't wait to hike it again. Travel directions could be better, for people who are not familiar with the area, but if you are from there, they probably make perfect sense. this was a well worth it hike... friend surpised me with it and I hiked it in Flip flops but it wasnt hard not at all... to me it was easy and I enjoyed it... Im from salt lake city and I canstep outside and see the top of the peak from my porch.... this has a historic story to it I love it... slc, utah The view is to die for! I didn't want to climb down! I WOULD LIKE TO HIKE IALWAYS LOOK ENSIGN PEAK BUT I WEAR BRACE ON LEFT ANKLE I WISH U CAN HELP TO TELL ME ABOUT HIKE EASY OR HARD THANK JB This was my first time doing this hike and I enjoyed it on so many levels. It was a gorgeouse view at the top with the sun setting, a well maintained trail, and just enough of a tilt to get the heart pumping. I would recommend trying some of the other trails that branch off from the main trail if you want to add a little spice to your hike. And warning - DO NOT wear jelly shoes when doing this hike because they will slow you're group down. ENJOY! I jogged this trail from downtown. From the temple you can go over to the Memorial park and jog up about 2 miles. You will find a "Short Line" sign pointing left up the hill. If you stay on the trail and work your way to the top Ensign Peak is just ahead off to the left. Total distance was 8 miles and it was an awesome trail. Between the "lookout mound", a great view to the west from a lookout area, and "Ensign Peak" you have the better part of the valley to enjoy. If you are really into the views, I would suggest going north when the trail forks. This is a steep climb in parts, but worth the effort. This will also connect with the Bonneville Shoreline Trail. Lots of paths to choose from once on top, but remember to stay on the trail and always rembemer how to get back. This is an easy place to get lost and not a lot of people travel this area. Stay within view of something specific to help you navigate and you will be okay. Easy Hike. I took my 4 year old, and my 2 Year old, and we cruised up the peak in no time. If you have a hard time climbing this peak, then you have problems!!! My kids loved it. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Utah Hiking, Utah Trails, Utah Hikes, Salt Lake County Hiking, Salt Lake County Trails, Salt Lake County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||