Best mountain peaks around North Salt Lake are situated at the foot of the Wasatch Mountains, offering access to a variety of peaks. The surrounding Wasatch Front provides numerous notable options for outdoor experiences. These peaks offer diverse experiences, from quick scenic overlooks to challenging alpine ascents. The region provides opportunities for panoramic views and rewarding hikes.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
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Wonderful viewpoint on the Mount Wire trail
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Mount Wire (also known as Wire Mountain or Big Beacon[3]) is a mountain located on the east side of Salt Lake City, Utah with an elevation of 7,146 feet (2,178 m). The mountain is named after Lester Wire, an American policeman of Salt Lake City, Utah, who in 1912 developed the first red-green electric traffic light.[4] Mount Wire is a common spot for adventurous hikers and has many access trails, some created by nearby Red Butte Gardens. The east side of the University of Utah offers direct access to trails to the summit. Mount Wire formerly could be identified from other nearby mountains by its two passive microwave repeaters near the summit. These billboard like structures were used to bounce microwave signals over the mountain to the north-eastern parts of Utah. Mount Wire also houses an old airway beacon directly on the summit. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Wire
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At 7,212 feet, Dude Benchmark is a USGS high point and grassy peak just north of Salt Lake City. You get unobstructed views from the peak and the trail following the ridge that the peak is on.
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Sunset Point is located along the Wild Rose Trail in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. It offers a great view of the nearby town of North Salt Lake and its surrounding mountains.
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Although Ensign Peak is diminutive compared to the surrounding ridgelines and mountains, it is beautifully situated to give you views over Salt Lake City and the valley — especially at sunrise or sunset.
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Red Butte is a great spot to look out over North Salt Lake, especially around dusk.
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This small summit is home to an old airway beacon. You can climb the ladder to the top to get a great view of the Salt Lake area!
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Very nice vantage point, whether with the family or alone, the trip is worth it. View of the Capitol
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The region offers a variety of popular spots. View of Salt Lake City from Mount Wire is known for its old airway beacon and panoramic views. View of Salt Lake City from Ensign Peak provides excellent views, especially at sunrise or sunset. For a different perspective, View of North Salt Lake from Red Butte is a great spot to look out over the city, particularly around dusk.
Yes, Ensign Peak is considered family-friendly, offering a relatively short and accessible trail with rewarding views. Another option is Sunset Point, located along the Wild Rose Trail, which also offers great views and is suitable for families.
You can expect stunning panoramic views. From Ensign Peak, you'll see Salt Lake City, the Great Salt Lake, and surrounding mountain ranges. Dude Benchmark offers clear, expansive, unobstructed views. Higher peaks like Mount Olympus and Twin Peaks provide breathtaking alpine vistas of the Wasatch Range and valleys below.
Yes, Ensign Peak holds significant historical value. It was the first peak ascended by Brigham Young and other early Mormon pioneers upon entering the Salt Lake Valley in 1847, making it a notable landmark in the region's history.
For a strenuous and rewarding challenge, Mount Olympus is an iconic peak with a demanding 6.3-mile out-and-back trail, known for its continuous valley views and a particularly challenging final ascent. Twin Peaks (Broads Fork side) also offers a strenuous 10.5-mile out-and-back hike to one of the highest points in Salt Lake County.
The best time often depends on the specific peak and your desired experience. For Ensign Peak, sunrise or sunset offers particularly beautiful views. For birdwatchers, the strenuous hike to Twin Peaks is especially appealing from June to September. Generally, late spring through early fall provides the most favorable conditions for higher elevation hikes.
Mount Timpanogos, often called 'Timp,' is known for its glacier and impressive cave tours, offering a unique mountain experience. Mount Wire is home to an old airway beacon, which adds a distinctive man-made feature to its natural summit.
Beyond hiking, the area offers diverse outdoor activities. You can explore various mountain biking trails, with options ranging from moderate to difficult, such as the Dude Benchmark – Grandview Route loop. Road cycling routes are also available, including easy loops like the Wasatch Viewpoint on Bike Path.
Yes, there are trails for various skill levels. For easy hikes, consider the Ensign Peak Trail or the Wild Rose Loop. For more challenging routes, Mount Olympus and Twin Peaks offer strenuous climbs. Dude Benchmark provides an intermediate option with rewarding views.
For exceptional sunset views, Ensign Peak is highly recommended, offering a beautifully situated vantage point over Salt Lake City and the valley. Red Butte is also a great spot to watch the dusk settle over North Salt Lake.
Mount Olympus is considered an iconic peak due to its dominating presence on the Salt Lake City skyline and its challenging yet rewarding hike. It's often seen as a 'litmus test' for new residents, offering continuous views of the valley and a sense of accomplishment for those who conquer its strenuous trail.


See even more amazing summits around North Salt Lake with these guides: