Kid Friendly Hike: Ensign Peak
Trail Overview
Distance: .8 mi | Location: Salt Lake City | Best Seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall | Elevation Gain: 374 ft | Route Type: Out & Back | Bathrooms @ Trailhead: No
Ensign Peak is an iconic hike located in Salt Lake City, Utah. In 1847, this modest peak was the first to be summited, only two short days, after the Latter-Day Saint pioneers arrived in the Salt Lake Valley. Their leader, Brigham Young, and a small party used the proximity of Ensign Peak to survey their new home and map out the city they were to build.
Getting There
Ensign Peak is located about 3 miles from downtown Salt Lake City. If you use Google Maps you can type in “Ensign Peak Trailhead” for the most direct route based on your location. The trailhead is located in a neighborhood and has no dedicated parking lot. Follow Capitol Blvd heading north, turn left on Edgecombe Drive. Edgecombe will curve and start heading north and turn into Ensign Vista Drive. Stay on Ensign Vista Drive until you see the trailhead on the left hand side of the road.
Trail Conditions
While the distance on this trail is relatively short, it is fairly steep and does have some loose rocks. This trail is also completely exposed. Have I sold you on it yet?! While those two things may not sound like a winning combination don’t write off this hike. Below are some recommendations for making this hike an awesome family outing!
Hike When it is Cooler
While hiking an exposed trail can be miserable in the summer, it is perfect for cooler weather. One option is to hike this trail in the spring. This is a good trail to combine with a trip to the Utah State Capitol to see the cherry blossoms. You also might get lucky enough to see some wildflowers on your hike.
Another option would be to hike it in the fall when the leaves are changing. With a birds eye view of the Salt Lake Valley it is the perfect hike to see the city come alive with fall colors.
And depending on when Utah gets its first snowfall you may even be able to hike this trail into early winter. Just keep in mind that this trail is subject to seasonal closures so avoid heading there if the foot hills are wet or snowy.
Hike at Sunset
Another option is to time your hike with sunset. The trail approaches the peak from behind, providing spectacular views of the setting sun and the Great Salt Lake. Consider packing some snacks so you can enjoy the cool evening breeze and watch the city landscape soften into twilight.
Hike at Night
If your family wants to hike this trail in the summer, consider hiking it at night. The best time to hike it is on a full moon. The trail is exposed enough that you can hike it by the light of the moon. If you can’t make it on a full moon then simply bring headlamps or flashlights. Just be aware that the trail closes at 11 pm. You also will want to make sure to not leave valuables in your car.
Things to Be Aware Of
Given how steep the trail is if you are carrying a baby on your back or are hiking while pregnant I would strongly suggest bringing hiking pools. Going up isn’t so tricky as coming back down when you have the extra weight. Also be sure to bring plenty of water, wear sunscreen and take frequent breaks.
Once you get close to the top, the trail becomes narrow so you will want to keep track of your little kids on that section of the trail.
Enjoy!
I hope you are able to get out this spring and try out this hike. Currently, there are wildflowers showing off their colors, but they won’t last for long. If you get a chance to try this trail out leave a comment below and let me know how it goes!
If you would like to find more kid friendly hikes in Utah you can click here!
