The best walks and hikes around Grantsville
4.0
(1)
7
hikers
2
hikes
Hikes around Grantsville explore the foothills and canyons of the Stansbury Mountains, which rise from the Tooele Valley. The region is characterized by a high-desert environment, with trails ascending through scrubland into canyons and groves of trees. The network of paths provides a mix of easy day hikes and more challenging routes with significant elevation gain.
Best hiking trails around Grantsville
- The most popular hiking route is Bates Canyon Trail — Tooele, a 8.3 mile (13.3 km) trail that takes about 4 hours 40 minutes to complete. This moderate route involves a sustained climb with an elevation gain of over 800 meters.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Bates Foothills loop — Tooele, an easy 3.6 mile (5.8 km) path. The trail follows a loop through the foothills with views across the valley.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Dark Trail — Settlement Canyon Recreation Area, a 2.8 mile (4.6 km) trail leading through Settlement Canyon, often completed in about 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Hiking around Grantsville is defined by high-desert canyons, mountain foothills, and trails ascending to higher elevations. The trail system offers options suitable for different ability levels, from short loops to longer canyon ascents.
- The guide includes highly-rated routes that showcase the best of the region's landscape. More than 6 hikers have used komoot to explore Grantsville's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
1.43km
00:38
210m
0m
The T Trail offers a brisk, uphill hike that's perfect for a quick escape into nature in Tooele County, Utah. Despite its easy difficulty rating, you'll gain 699 feet (213 metres) in elevation over just 0.9 miles (1.4 km), meaning a consistent climb that rewards you with expanding views as you ascend. It's a fantastic way to get your heart rate up and enjoy the local scenery without dedicating hours to a longer route, making it a popular choice for those seeking a short but satisfying outdoor experience.
Planning your visit to the T Trail is straightforward, though it's always smart to check the weather forecast beforehand. While specific parking information isn't detailed, arriving earlier in the day, especially on busy weekends, is a good strategy to ensure you find a spot at the trailhead. The trail's short 37-minute duration means you don't need extensive planning, but bringing water is always recommended, particularly if you're hiking during warmer periods.
This T Trail stands out as an excellent option for a quick, accessible hike in the region, providing a concentrated dose of elevation gain that feels more substantial than its distance suggests. It's a great alternative for those who want a workout or a scenic overlook without the commitment of longer, more strenuous trails. Its compact nature makes it family-friendly and an ideal choice for fitting a dose of nature into a busy schedule.
4
hikers
2.90km
01:05
200m
200m
The Tooele 'T' Trail offers a fantastic, quick escape into the mountains, leading you through changing Great Basin vegetation from sagebrush to juniper. The path winds past a large butte and a small, picturesque creek, with the terrain becoming progressively steeper as you ascend. The highlight is undoubtedly the large white "T" monument, a local landmark that serves as your destination and offers incredible panoramic views of the Tooele Valley.
This 1.8-mile (2.9 km) hike, despite its easy official difficulty, involves a significant 658 feet (201 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 1 hour and 5 minutes to complete. The initial section is gradual, but the trail quickly becomes a challenging, steep climb, especially towards the top. The path can be gravelly and slippery, so good footwear is essential. The trailhead is easily accessible near the Tooele County Courthouse.
Beyond the natural beauty, the Tooele 'T' Trail provides a glimpse into the area's history with remnants of old mining operations. It's a popular choice for a quick but intense workout, perfect for lunch breaks or after-work hikes. Keep an eye out for wildlife like mule deer and hawks, but also be vigilant for rattlesnakes during warmer months.
Sign up for free
4.0
(1)
2
hikers
4.58km
01:17
90m
90m
Step onto the Dark Trail in Settlement Canyon, Tooele, and immediately feel the embrace of its namesake shade. This easy 2.8-mile (4.6 km) out-and-back hike winds through dense foliage along a ravine, offering a smooth dirt path punctuated by occasional rocky sections and fascinating rock formations. It's a truly mellow experience, perfect for a quick nature escape that takes about 1 hour and 16 minutes.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trailhead is easily accessible with parking available. This route is popular year-round, but for the most spectacular scenery, aim for the fall when the leaves transform into a vibrant display. With only 282 feet (86 metres) of elevation gain, it's a gentle climb suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
What makes this trail stand out is its consistent shade and family-friendly nature, making it a local favorite for those seeking an easy, rewarding outdoor activity. Beyond hiking, it's also a popular spot for beginner mountain bikers and runners. Keep an eye out for various birds and small mammals that call this wooded canyon home.
1
hikers
5.79km
01:48
220m
220m
The Bates Canyon Foothills Loop offers a delightful escape into the Tooele Valley's natural beauty, providing expansive views without a grueling climb. You'll traverse gentle paths through fragrant sagebrush and juniper, with the landscape gradually opening up to reveal panoramic vistas of the valley and the distant Great Salt Lake. This easy 3.6-mile (5.8 km) hike, with 721 feet (220 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a quick outing, taking just under 2 hours to complete.
Access to the Bates Canyon Foothills Loop is straightforward, with parking available at the Bates Canyon Trailhead. To ensure a spot, especially on pleasant weather days, it's wise to arrive early. Spring brings a burst of wildflowers, while autumn showcases beautiful fall foliage, making these seasons ideal for your visit. Remember to bring water, particularly if you're hiking during the warmer parts of the day.
This trail provides a fantastic introduction to the region's foothills, offering a glimpse into the diverse terrain and historical significance of the wider Bates Canyon area, which includes old mining roads and potential wildlife sightings like mule deer. It's a great choice for those seeking a family-friendly adventure or a peaceful walk with rewarding scenery close to Stansbury Park and Erda.
13.3km
04:40
800m
800m
Set out on the Bates Canyon Trail, a moderate hike covering 8.3 miles (13.3 km) with an elevation gain of 2626 feet (800 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 4 hours and 39 minutes. The trail begins gently through sagebrush and juniper, gradually becoming steeper with switchbacks that lead to panoramic views of the Tooele Valley, Stansbury Park, and Erda. As you ascend, the landscape transforms into mixed forests of aspen and pine, offering glimpses of the Great Salt Lake and the surrounding mountains.
When planning your visit, be aware that sections of the trail are shared with 4x4 and off-road vehicles, so stay alert. The route follows an old mining road, and while interesting, it is important to remain on the marked path to avoid unmarked tunnels and shafts. Wildlife, including black bears, are present in the area, so carrying bear spray is a good precaution for your safety.
One of the notable features of the Bates Canyon Trail is the seasonal Bates Canyon Waterfall, located approximately 3.1 miles from the trailhead. This spot is particularly vibrant with wildflowers during the spring months, making it a rewarding destination within your hike. The trail offers a solid workout for moderately experienced hikers, combining diverse terrain with expansive views.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The short, steep trail up to the giant white "T" for Tooele is a local favorite for getting in a quick challenging hike during a lunch break or after work. The grade of the trail is made a little harder by the gravelly, sometimes slippery nature of the path, but is a nice way to get the heart pumping. Once you reach the bottom of the "T" you get great views over the town and surrounding area. If you wish to scramble to the top of the "T" there is an unofficial series of short, steep switchbacks to the top that can be a little loose at spots. Be on the lookout for rattlesnakes during the warmer months!
0
0
The upper part of Bates Canyon Road becomes more and more secluded feeling as you climb higher and higher. As you hike up and away from the dense network of trails the crisscross the foothills and toward Bates Peak, the trail gets steeper and steeper. There is an abandoned mining camp up in the canyon and it is also possible that there are unmarked mining tunnels and shafts in the area, so it's a good idea to stick to the trail. Bates Canyon Road stops somewhat anti-climatically below Bates and Nelson Peaks, but it's still a great, challenging hike that is especially good in the fall when the leaves are changing from green to hues of red, orange, and gold.
0
0
Bates Canyon Road is an old mining road that is closed to motor traffic. The lower section of this road-turned-trail passes through the open fields and foothills of the northern Oquirrh Mountains, below Bates and Nelson Peaks and is surrounded by a dense network of other trails. Bates Canyon Road is a scenic, open trail with few-to-no trees and therefore great panoramic views of the mountains and Tooele. This is a popular spot with hikers, runners, dog-walkers, and mountain bikers.
0
0
Dark Trail in Tooele, Utah, is popular, a family-friendly hike in Settlement Canyon. Starting near the reservoir, you follow a slightly uphill trail along a ravine just off the road. The hike is easy and relatively flat, about 3 miles roundtrip if done as an out-and-back. The trail is named for its shaded canopy that is especially lush in summer and offers a cool, scenic walk. It's accessible year-round, with beautiful red, orange, and golden foliage in the fall. Once you hit the road, most turn around, but you actually can continue down the trail after walking down Settlement Canyon Road for a short period. Keep in mind that if you do continue onward to Upper Dark Trail, it does cut through private property so please be respectful.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes near Grantsville?
Yes, the area has several options for families. The Bates Foothills loop — Tooele is a great choice, offering a relatively flat 3.6-mile (5.8 km) walk with open views of the valley. For a shorter walk through a canyon, the Dark Trail — Settlement Canyon Recreation Area is a 2.8-mile (4.6 km) path that is also suitable for an easy outing.
Can I take my dog on the hiking trails?
Most trails in the high-desert and mountain areas around Grantsville are dog-friendly, but they must be kept under control. Keep in mind that the terrain can be rugged and exposed, with limited water sources, so be sure to carry plenty of water for both you and your dog. Always check specific regulations for areas like the Deseret Peak Wilderness, where restrictions may apply.
What is the best time of year to hike around Grantsville?
Spring and fall are the ideal seasons for hiking in the Grantsville area. During these months, temperatures are moderate and pleasant. Fall is particularly beautiful in the canyons, like South Willow Canyon, when the aspen groves turn brilliant yellow. Summer can be very hot, especially on exposed trails in the foothills, so early morning starts are recommended. Winter hiking is possible at lower elevations, but higher trails in the Stansbury Mountains will be snow-covered and require appropriate gear.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced hikers?
Absolutely. For a strenuous but rewarding climb, the trail to Deseret Peak is a local classic, gaining over 3,700 feet to the highest point in the Stansbury Mountains. For a tough multi-day trek, the Stansbury Front Trail offers a significant backpacking challenge with substantial elevation changes and incredible views.
Where can I find trails with good scenic viewpoints?
Many trails offer fantastic views. For a challenging hike with a 360-degree payoff, the summit of Deseret Peak provides panoramic views of the Great Salt Lake and surrounding valleys. For a more moderate option with sustained canyon scenery, the Bates Canyon Trail — Tooele ascends into the mountains, offering evolving perspectives as you climb.
Are there opportunities for camping combined with hiking?
Yes, South Willow Canyon is the primary hub for camping and hiking. You can find campgrounds there that serve as excellent bases for accessing trails to Deseret Peak and South Willow Lake. For a different experience, camping is also available at the Grantsville Reservoir, which offers nearby opportunities for walking and off-roading.
Are there any trails with waterfalls near Grantsville?
The Grantsville region is a high-desert environment, so large, prominent waterfalls are not a common feature of the landscape. While you may encounter small cascades and flowing water in canyons like South Willow Canyon during the spring snowmelt, there are no major waterfall destination hikes in the immediate area.
What kind of terrain should I expect on the trails?
The terrain varies significantly with elevation. Lower trails in the foothills consist of packed dirt paths winding through sagebrush and scrubland. As you ascend into canyons like South Willow or Bates Canyon, the trails become rockier and steeper, passing through groves of aspen and pine. Higher elevation routes, such as the one to Deseret Peak, involve navigating rocky ridges and scree fields above the treeline.
Can I access trails using public transport?
There is no public transportation that directly serves the trailheads in the Stansbury Mountains, such as those in South Willow Canyon or Settlement Canyon. Accessing these hiking areas requires a private vehicle. The trailheads are located a scenic drive from Grantsville.
What should I know about parking at the trailheads?
Most trailheads, like those in South Willow Canyon, have designated parking areas. Some popular locations, such as the Loop Campground which serves the Deseret Peak trail, can fill up quickly on weekends, so an early start is recommended. Some recreation areas, like Settlement Canyon, may require a small entrance or parking fee.
Are there any shorter, circular walks available?
Yes, for a pleasant circular route, consider the T-Trail — Angels Grove. It's a short loop of under 2 miles (3 km), making it a good option for a quick walk in nature without a major time commitment.
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
