The best walks and hikes in Mount Olympus Wilderness

For day hiking, permits are generally not required. However, as a designated wilderness area within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, specific regulations apply, especially for overnight backpacking. It's essential to practice Leave No Trace principles to protect the natural environment. Group size may also be limited.

The prime hiking season is from late spring to fall. Snow can linger on higher elevation trails and north-facing slopes until mid-summer, so trails like the one to Gobblers Knob are best attempted from July onwards. July is spectacular for wildflowers, while autumn offers vibrant colors from the aspen forests.

Dog regulations vary significantly by canyon due to watershed protections. For example, in Big Cottonwood Canyon, where the Lake Blanche trail is located, dogs are not permitted to protect the water supply. In other areas like Millcreek Canyon or Neffs Canyon, dogs may be allowed, sometimes on an odd/even day schedule. Always check the specific regulations for your chosen trailhead before you go.

The Heughs Canyon Trail is an excellent choice. It's a relatively short, shaded hike that follows a stream up to a lovely waterfall, making it a great escape on a warm day.

While much of the wilderness is steep, there are some more approachable options. The Neffs Canyon Trail offers a pleasant walk with great views and stream crossings that are enjoyable for families. Another moderate option is the Pipeline Viewpoint via Rattlesnack Gulch & Pipeline Trails, which has less elevation gain and provides rewarding views of the canyon.

For an expansive valley overlook, the trail to Desolation Overlook is a fantastic choice. It provides stunning, wide-open views of the Salt Lake Valley and the surrounding Wasatch mountains without the intense scramble required for some of the higher peaks.

The Mount Olympus Trail is considered very challenging. It involves over 4,100 feet of elevation gain in just 3.3 miles. The final section to the true summit requires a difficult and exposed scramble over jagged quartzite boulders, which should only be attempted by experienced hikers comfortable with heights and exposure.

The area was designated as a wilderness area by the U.S. Congress in 1984. Under the Wilderness Act of 1964, mechanized forms of transport, including mountain bikes and other vehicles, are prohibited to preserve the wild character of the landscape and provide opportunities for solitude.

The wilderness is home to a diverse range of wildlife. It's common to see mule deer and moose, especially in the canyons and near streams. While less common, mountain lions and black bears also inhabit the area. Birdwatchers can spot hummingbirds, buntings, and various warblers. Always keep a safe distance and never feed wildlife.

There are over 100 hiking routes to explore in and around the Mount Olympus Wilderness. These range from short canyon walks to strenuous, high-altitude summit scrambles, offering a wide variety of experiences for different fitness and skill levels.

The trails in Mount Olympus Wilderness are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning panoramic views, the challenging yet rewarding ascents, and the area's rugged, natural beauty so close to Salt Lake City.