Big Beacon (Mount Wire) Trail

The Mount Wire/Big Beacon Trail is a fantastic hike just east of the University of Utah campus. This trail is a consistent climb up to the peak of Red Butte and Mount Wire. Hikers should be prepared with proper, supportive footwear and hiking poles if they want or need the extra support. This trail offers hikers stunning views of the Utah Landscape and of Salt Lake City. If you are looking for somewhere to unwind after a day at the museum or after reaching the summit of these two peaks, check out the Living Room Overlook on the way down. This little spot is a fantastic place to kick back and relax and enjoy the Utah sunset!

From the Natural History Museum, follow the Bonneville Shoreline Trail-Red Butte Section southeast before curving northeast along the Living Room Trail. Follow the Living Room Trail up to the top of Red Butte and take a moment to admire the views, before heading southeast over to the top of Mount Wire.

At the top of Mount Wire you will find two repeater towers as well as an old airway beacon. You would think that this mountain is named after the abundance of metal and wire at its summit but, interestingly enough, Mount Wire is actually named after a former Salt Lake City police officer named Lester Wire who invented the first red/green traffic light back in 1912. Though it has nothing to do with the name, the old airway beacon atop Mount Wire can be climbed for better views of the city below.

When you’re ready to head home, simply follow the same trail back down to the Natural History Museum Parking Lot.