Salt Lake Overlook via the Desolation Trail
Salt Lake Overlook via the Desolation Trail

Salt Lake Overlook via the Desolation Trail

Salt Lake City
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Salt Lake Overlook via the Desolation Trail

Salt Lake Overlook via the Desolation Trail

Distance: 5.2mi
Elevation: 1,322ft
Time: 2.5-3.5h

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The Salt Lake Overlook via the Desolation Trail is a moderately challenging route in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. This route is a very popular hiking destination and a great spot to see forest wildlife such as moose, deer, and songbirds. Dogs are allowed on this trail but must be kept on leash for the duration of their hike.

Salt Lake Overlook via the Desolation Trail Map

Getting there

From Wasatch Boulevard, turn east onto Mill Creek Canyon Road. Follow Mill Creek Canyon Road for 3.3mi then park at the pullout on the south side of the road, just past the Church Fork Picnic Area.

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About

Backcountry Campground

No

When to do

May to October

Pets allowed

Yes - On Leash

Family friendly

Older Children only

Route Signage

Average

Crowd Levels

High

Route Type

Out and back


Salt Lake Overlook via the Desolation Trail
Elevation Graph


Salt Lake Overlook via the Desolation Trail Description

The Salt Lake Overlook via the Desolation Trail is a super popular hike in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. This trail is moderately challenging with a consistent climb up to the overlook. Proper hiking footwear and lots of water are essential for this route. In the winter, traction devices such as microspikes can be a huge help on the slippery sections. This trail gets a lot of traffic year-round, and for good reason, as the views from the top are absolutely breathtaking!

From the trailhead, follow the path heading south to a divide. Take the right hand path and follow the switchbacks up the Desolation Trail to the Salt Lake Overlook.

At the top, take a well-deserved rest and admire the stunning views, before turning around and following the same path back to where you began.

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