Ensign Peak
A short, steep hike to a historic summit offering breathtaking panoramic views of Salt Lake City and the valley.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful hike
Ensign Peak
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful hike
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A short, steep hike to a historic summit offering breathtaking panoramic views of Salt Lake City and the valley.
"A short and rewarding hike with breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the Great Salt Lake, and the surrounding Wasatch Mountains."
🚗 Parking is Tricky
Street parking at the trailhead is limited. Consider Uber/Lyft for an easier experience, especially during peak times.
💧 Hydrate & Protect
The trail is exposed. Bring ample water, sunscreen, and a hat, especially during summer months.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City Views
Summit
Sweeping vistas of Salt Lake City, the Great Salt Lake, and the Wasatch Mountains. Unforgettable at sunset!
Historic Monument
Summit
Commemorates the 1847 survey of the valley by early LDS leaders. A place of reverence and perspective.
Sunset Spectacle
Summit
Watch the city lights twinkle below and the lake glow as the sun dips below the horizon. Magical!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
What to Pack
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking is Tricky
Street parking at the trailhead is limited. Consider Uber/Lyft for an easier experience, especially during peak times.
💧 Hydrate & Protect
The trail is exposed. Bring ample water, sunscreen, and a hat, especially during summer months.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Needed
While short, the hike is steep and can be slippery if wet or snowy. Wear good hiking shoes.
⏳ Pace Yourself
It's a steady uphill climb. Take breaks as needed; the views are worth the effort.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking is Tricky
Street parking at the trailhead is limited. Consider Uber/Lyft for an easier experience, especially during peak times.
💧 Hydrate & Protect
The trail is exposed. Bring ample water, sunscreen, and a hat, especially during summer months.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Needed
While short, the hike is steep and can be slippery if wet or snowy. Wear good hiking shoes.
⏳ Pace Yourself
It's a steady uphill climb. Take breaks as needed; the views are worth the effort.
✨ Secret Trails Exist
Some hikers have found hidden paths, including one leading to a cave. Explore with caution!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Ensign Peak for its breathtaking panoramic views of Salt Lake City and the surrounding mountains, calling it a 'gem' and a 'must-do.' The short, rewarding hike and historical significance are also frequently highlighted. Some note the trail can be steep and exposed, and parking is limited, especially during peak sunset times.
"Beautiful scenery once your reached the top. Its a nice short hike, but some areas can be steep. Its also a historical landmark so there are plaques around explaining the history of the area."
Town Traveller
"🏜️🏔️ Ensign Peak – Salt Lake City, UT
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ensign Peak is one of Salt Lake City’s true gems—a short and rewarding hike with breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the Great Salt Lake, and the surrounding Wasatch Mountains. The trail is less than a mile each way, making it perfect for beginners, families, and visitors short on time. It’s a steady uphill climb, but completely manageable, especially if you pace yourself.
At the summit, you’ll find a historic monument commemorating the spot where early LDS leaders, including Brigham Young, surveyed the Salt Lake Valley back in 1847. There’s a sense of reverence and perspective up there—both literal and symbolic. The views at sunset are especially stunning, with the city lights beginning to twinkle below and the lake glowing in the distance.
Trailhead amenities are solid, with informative plaques and a small park area that ties in the site’s historical significance. The path is mostly exposed, so sunscreen and water are musts—especially during the warmer months.
Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Ensign Peak offers a memorable, meaningful experience with minimal effort. A peaceful climb, rich history, and unmatched views all in one. Highly recommend!"
Ramin Homyak
"This hike gives you good elevation quickly. Bring adequate water & proper gear. We actually did the hike in November, and it started snowing while we hiked up to the summit. Definitely windy at the peak. If the weather is clear, it could be somewhat crowded. You can get up & down in 75 minutes if you're going at a moderate speed. If there's snow on the ground, itll definitely slow you down & male the terrain slippery. The views of Salt Lake City were AMAZING from the top. Parking is om the street at the base of the trail. It's in a nice neighborhood on a steep hill."
Craig Prater
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ensign Peak is located just north of downtown Salt Lake City. The trailhead is accessible by car, though parking can be challenging. Many visitors opt for rideshares like Uber or Lyft for convenience, especially during busy periods.
While there isn't direct public transport to the trailhead, you can take a bus or TRAX train to a stop near downtown Salt Lake City and then use a rideshare service for the final leg to Ensign Peak.
Parking is available on the street at the base of the trail in a residential neighborhood. It fills up quickly, particularly for sunset hikes. Arriving early or using alternative transportation is recommended.
Ensign Peak is very close to downtown, often described as just a few minutes away by car. The hike itself is also short, making it an easily accessible natural escape.
While not officially prohibited, hiking Ensign Peak at night is not recommended due to the lack of lighting and potential for slippery conditions. Stick to daylight hours for safety.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Ensign Peak is a public park and hiking trail, so there are no admission fees or tickets required to visit.
Ensign Peak is generally accessible from dawn until dusk. There are no official closing times, but it's best to complete your hike before dark for safety reasons.
There is no entrance fee for Ensign Peak Park. It is a free public space for recreation and enjoying the views.
Yes, Ensign Peak can be visited year-round. However, winter conditions can make the trail slippery and snowy, requiring extra caution and appropriate gear.
No reservations are needed for Ensign Peak. It's a first-come, first-served public trail and park.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hike to the summit of Ensign Peak is typically around 0.9 miles round trip and can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the top.
The trail is considered moderately difficult due to its steep, consistent uphill climb. While short, it can be strenuous for some.
You'll get breathtaking panoramic views of the entire Salt Lake Valley, including downtown Salt Lake City, the Great Salt Lake, and the surrounding Wasatch Mountains.
There are no dedicated restrooms at the Ensign Peak trailhead or summit. It's advisable to use facilities before you arrive.
Yes, many families with children hike Ensign Peak. It's a short hike, but the steepness might be challenging for very young children or those unaccustomed to hiking.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers the most beautiful light for photography. Sunset is particularly popular for capturing the city lights.
You can capture stunning landscape shots of the Salt Lake Valley, cityscapes, mountain ranges, and the Great Salt Lake. The historic monument also makes for interesting photos.
There are no specific restrictions on personal photography at Ensign Peak. However, commercial photography may require permits.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A tripod can be helpful for sunset shots, but be mindful of other hikers.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas or by local ordinances. It's best to check with Salt Lake City Parks and Recreation for current regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Bring plenty of water and snacks, wear sunscreen and hats, and consider visiting during cooler parts of the day. The historical monument at the top also offers a chance to teach kids a bit about Utah's pioneer history. The relatively quick turnaround time means kids are less likely to get bored or tired.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
This activity offers maximum scenic value for zero cost. Pack your own water and snacks to avoid purchasing them nearby, and use public transport or rideshare services strategically if you don't have a car. It's a perfect way to experience the natural beauty and history of Salt Lake City without spending a dime.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Recommendations: Aim for sunset for dramatic city light shots, or early morning for softer light and fewer crowds. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to encompass the vast valley. Don't forget to include the historic monument in your compositions for added depth and narrative.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ensign Peak Hike: A Quick Ascent
Hikers often recommend wearing sturdy footwear, as the trail can be uneven and potentially slippery, particularly if there's been recent rain or snow. The path is largely exposed, offering little shade, so sun protection like sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are crucial, especially during the warmer months. Bringing plenty of water is also a must to stay hydrated during the ascent.
For those seeking a slightly different experience, one Reddit user mentioned discovering a 'secret trail' that led to a cave, adding an element of adventure beyond the main path. While this adds intrigue, it's always wise to prioritize safety and stick to marked trails unless you are experienced and well-prepared for off-trail exploration.
Historical Significance of Ensign Peak
Informative plaques are scattered around the summit area, providing details about the historical events and the significance of Ensign Peak. These markers help visitors understand the context of the pioneers' arrival and their vision for the valley. Standing at the summit, with the vast expanse of the valley spread out before you, it's easy to imagine the pioneers' feelings of hope and determination as they looked upon this new land.
The combination of natural beauty and historical importance makes Ensign Peak a unique destination. It's not just a hike with a view; it's an opportunity to connect with the past and appreciate the journey of those who shaped this region. Many visitors find a sense of reverence and perspective while contemplating the history from this elevated vantage point.
Capturing the Views: Photography at Ensign Peak
Sunset is a crowd favorite, as it paints the sky with vibrant colors and illuminates the city below with a warm glow. Many visitors flock to the peak during this time to witness and capture this spectacular display. The historic monument at the summit also provides a compelling foreground element for landscape shots, adding a layer of historical context to your photographs.
For the best photographic results, consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive scenery. While a tripod can be useful for low-light conditions, be mindful of space and other hikers, especially during peak times. Drones may be subject to local regulations, so it's advisable to check current rules before flying.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit