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 Reporter |
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 2 of 3 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by yada on 6/4/2006 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. 
Reviewed by TomJ on 5/30/2006 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.
Reviewed by KB on 1/22/2006 This is rated Easy but it is steep with loose stones and small washed out gullies on the unpaved path, so do not hike after sunset. It places you closer to the smog layer and just uphill from the refineries, but the panoramic view is worth it on a clear day. Hiked 9/24/05
Reviewed by Sheryl on 11/28/2005 I enjoyed this hike, but it can be fairly steep in places. I'm not in the best shape, but I was able to make it to the top after a few rests. My tip, do it in warmer weather. I did this hike the day after the first snow (11/27/2005). There was a little snow on the trail that made it slippery in a couple of places, but frigid winds began to hit us as we neared the top. We didn't stay long because the cold wind, but despite the weather, the views were incredible. We're planning to take on this trail again with our boys when it warms up.
Reviewed by Nang on 10/5/2005 I LOVE IT!!! I CAN'T WAIT TO GO BACK!!! SIMPLY FABULOUS!!! MUST SEE AT NIGHTTIME!!!
Reviewed by David on 4/28/2005 I love this peak. It is a very quick hike, and very rewarding. It is fairly easy and has great views. I recommend it.
Reviewed by Patrick on 3/25/2005 Great hike with a great view. I did this one in August of 2004. I spent 20 minutes each gazing at the great lake, valley, and watching planes take off and land at the airport. Perfect way to take in Salt Lake City.
Reviewed by jlm255 on 8/1/2004 Very short hike, with plenty of rewards at the top. 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 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||