Malans Peak
A challenging and rewarding hike in Ogden, Utah, offering breathtaking panoramic views from its summit.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and wildlife
Malans Peak
Best Time
Beat the heat and wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging and rewarding hike in Ogden, Utah, offering breathtaking panoramic views from its summit.
"This is a legit hike! Couple of very steep portions of the hike and a couple long switchbacks."
👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed
The trail gets steep and rocky. Good ankle support and grip are crucial for a safe and enjoyable hike.
🔦 Pack a Headlamp for Descent
If catching the sunset, you'll hike down in the dark. A reliable light source is a must for safety.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Summit Panorama
Malans Peak Summit
Breathtaking 360-degree views of the valley and surrounding mountains. A true reward for the challenging ascent.
The 'Main Course' Ascent
Upper section of the Malans Peak Trail
The final, steep push to the summit offers a serious workout and incredible sense of accomplishment.
Kristin Spring Detour
Off the main Malans Peak Trail
A highly recommended, refreshing detour to a beautiful spring, offering a moment of tranquility.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Climb: Fitness is Key
Sunset Strategy: Safety First
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed
The trail gets steep and rocky. Good ankle support and grip are crucial for a safe and enjoyable hike.
🔦 Pack a Headlamp for Descent
If catching the sunset, you'll hike down in the dark. A reliable light source is a must for safety.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
This is a strenuous hike with significant elevation gain. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
🐍 Watch for Rattlesnakes
Be aware of your surroundings, especially near streams during summer. Give them plenty of space.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed
The trail gets steep and rocky. Good ankle support and grip are crucial for a safe and enjoyable hike.
🔦 Pack a Headlamp for Descent
If catching the sunset, you'll hike down in the dark. A reliable light source is a must for safety.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
This is a strenuous hike with significant elevation gain. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
🐍 Watch for Rattlesnakes
Be aware of your surroundings, especially near streams during summer. Give them plenty of space.
📸 Capture the Golden Hour
The sunset views from Malans Peak are legendary. Plan your hike to be at the summit for this magical time. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Malans Peak for its incredible summit views and the rewarding challenge of the hike. While the steep final ascent is demanding, the panoramic vistas and the well-maintained, shaded trail make it a highly recommended experience. Some note the need for good fitness and caution during the descent, especially after sunset.
"What an incredible hike. The views. The challenge. The serenity. Wow.
Definitely need to be in shape. At almost 50, I took a lot of breaks for the last mile or so. I trained at zero elevation. The elevation gain is 2200 ft. Almost a 2 hour hike, one way. The incline is extreme for the last 1.5 miles. If going to watch the sunset, bring a jacket and flashlight for the steep hike down."
Tony & Astrid Shay
"This is a great hike. 2000 feet of elevation gain about 4 1/2 miles of distance round-trip. The whole hike can be done within two hours. For the physically fit, it may only take one hour to an hour and 15 minutes to get to the top. What I like about this trail is that it has good tree coverage throughout much of the trail. At the top, you rewarded with excellent views. When hiking in the summer, be careful of rattle snakes near the stream."
Keith Roussel
"This is a legit hike! Couple of very steep portions of the hike and a couple long switchbacks. My wife described the hike in two parts. First part was the appetizer which takes you to a nice overlook, challenging but manageable. The second part is the main course and it’s almost entirely up hill! I didn’t enjoy this part as much! Gorgeous views! Parking is decent on both sides of the street that dead-ends at the trail head."
Chris S
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Malans Peak trailhead is located at the end of a dead-end street. Parking is available on both sides of the street. It's easily accessible by car, and many visitors use GPS to navigate directly to the trailhead.
Public transportation options directly to the Malans Peak trailhead are limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services to reach the starting point of the hike.
Parking is described as decent on both sides of the street that dead-ends at the trailhead. Arrive early, especially on weekends or during peak sunset hours, to secure a spot.
The trailhead is primarily a natural access point. It's advisable to have all your supplies, including water and snacks, before you arrive. There are no facilities directly at the trailhead.
Malans Peak is accessible year-round, but conditions can vary significantly. Winter hikes may require snowshoes or microspikes, and icy conditions can make the trail treacherous. Always check weather forecasts before heading out.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Malans Peak is a public hiking trail and does not require any tickets or admission fees for general access.
Malans Peak is open for hiking from dawn until dusk. There are no official operating hours, but it's recommended to hike during daylight for safety reasons, especially on the descent.
There is no fee to hike Malans Peak. It's a free public access trail for all to enjoy.
Dogs are generally allowed on the Malans Peak trail, but they must be kept on a leash. Be mindful of other hikers and the environment.
No permits are required for day hiking on Malans Peak. However, if you plan on any overnight camping or specific activities, it's always best to check with local authorities for any regulations.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
For most hikers, the round-trip Malans Peak hike takes about 2 to 4 hours. Fit individuals may complete it in 1.5 to 2 hours, while those taking more breaks might take up to 4.5 hours.
The Malans Peak trail has an elevation gain of approximately 2,000 to 2,200 feet. The incline becomes very steep for the last 1.5 miles.
Yes, Malans Peak is considered a legit and challenging hike, not for novice hikers. It features steep portions and long switchbacks, with the final section being almost entirely uphill.
You'll be rewarded with excellent, breathtaking panoramic views of the valley and surrounding mountains from the summit. There are also a few lookout spots along the way.
Yes, there are stream crossings on the Malans Peak trail. However, it's crucial to bring your own water supply as these sources may not always be potable or accessible.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers spectacular lighting for photography. The low clouds racing over the peak at sunset can create dramatic scenes.
You can capture sweeping panoramic landscapes from the summit, intimate shots of the lush foliage and pine trees, and dynamic action shots if you're trail running.
Drone photography might be possible, but always check local regulations regarding drone usage in natural areas. The open summit provides good vantage points.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can capture distant details. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions during sunset or sunrise.
The summit itself offers the most expansive views. The switchbacks through the pine trees also provide beautiful framing opportunities for photos. The detour to Kristin Spring is also picturesque.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you do attempt the full hike with older children, ensure they are well-prepared with appropriate gear, plenty of water, and snacks. The summit views are a fantastic motivator, and the sense of accomplishment can be immense. However, always prioritize safety, especially during the descent, and be aware of potential wildlife like rattlesnakes.
🏃♀️ Trail Runners
+2The Malans Peak hike is also a key location for the Running Up For Air (RUFA) event, attracting ultrarunners and those passionate about the cause. Runners often praise the trail for its demanding nature and the rewarding views that serve as a great motivator. Remember to be mindful of hikers and other trail users, especially during busy periods.
+2📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Beyond the summit, the Malans Peak trail itself provides diverse photographic subjects. The lush pine forests, winding switchbacks, and stream crossings offer opportunities for both grand landscapes and intimate nature shots. The detour to Kristin Spring is also a picturesque spot worth capturing.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Malans Peak Hike: A Detailed Look
The 'main course' begins after this initial overlook and is characterized by a sustained, steep incline. This final push to the summit is where the true challenge lies, with significant elevation gain over a relatively short distance. Many hikers find this section demanding, especially if not adequately prepared. The trail winds through pine trees, offering fresh-smelling air and intermittent views on both sides of the mountain.
Upon reaching the peak, hikers are greeted with a great flat area perfect for resting and soaking in the breathtaking panoramic views of the valley. For those seeking an even deeper experience, a detour to Kristin Spring is highly recommended, offering a tranquil spot amidst the rugged terrain. The entire Malans Peak trail is a testament to the beauty and challenge of the Wasatch Mountains.
Running Up For Air (RUFA) at Malans Peak
+1The RUFA event at Malans Peak typically takes place in late February, embracing the winter conditions with headlamps and a sunrise push to the summit. Participants can choose from various challenges, including 3, 6, 12, or even 24-hour races, showcasing the endurance and community spirit associated with the event.
This event highlights the dual nature of Malans Peak: a strenuous but accessible hiking destination and a venue for impactful community-driven initiatives. It’s a powerful example of how outdoor spaces can be utilized for both personal challenge and collective good.
+1Photography Opportunities on Malans Peak
+1Beyond the summit vistas, the Malans Peak trail itself presents numerous photographic opportunities. The winding switchbacks through dense pine forests offer opportunities for framing shots with natural elements. The lush greenery and the stream crossings add texture and depth to your images. Don't forget the detour to Kristin Spring, which provides a serene and picturesque subject.
For capturing the essence of the Malans Peak hike, consider a wide-angle lens for sweeping landscapes and a telephoto lens to pick out details in the distance. A tripod will be invaluable for low-light photography during sunrise or sunset, ensuring sharp and well-exposed images.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit