The best hikes from bus stations around Salt Lake City
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1,383
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Bus station hiking trails around Salt Lake City offer access to a diverse landscape, characterized by the dramatic Wasatch Mountains to the east and the unique Great Salt Lake to the west. The region features a variety of canyons, alpine lakes, and foothills, providing a range of elevations and terrains for hikers. Trails often traverse lush forests, open mountain vistas, and ancient lake shorelines, making for varied outdoor experiences. This geographical setting ensures a wide array of natural features are accessible from public transport.
Best bus station hiking trails around Salt Lake City
- The most popular bus station hiking route is Liberty Park Loop, a 1.6 miles (2.6 km) trail that takes about 40 minutes to complete. This easy route offers a pleasant urban park experience.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Living Room Trail, a moderate 2.6 miles (4.2 km) path. This trail is known for its distinctive rock formations and panoramic views of the city.
- Local hikers also love the Ensign Peak and Bonneville Shoreline Trail Loop, a 9.9 miles (15.9 km) trail leading through foothills and offering historical significance, often completed in about 4 hours 40 minutes.
- Hiking around Salt Lake City is defined by mountain canyons, ancient lake shorelines, and urban green spaces. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy park loops to more challenging mountain ascents.
- The routes in Salt Lake City are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 50 reviews. More than 1,300 hikers have used komoot to explore Salt Lake City's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
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2.60km
00:40
10m
10m
The Liberty Park Loop offers an easy hike through a historic urban park in Salt Lake City. You'll follow a paved path that winds past the tranquil Liberty Park Pond and the notable Tracy Aviary, providing a pleasant experience amidst diverse trees like towering cottonwoods. This accessible route covers 1.6 miles (2.6 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 18 feet (6 metres), making it a quick outing that takes about 39 minutes to complete.
Planning your visit to the Liberty Park Loop is straightforward. You will find ample parking available within Liberty Park, along with convenient restrooms and water fountains. The route is popular for walking, running, and cycling, and it is also dog-friendly, provided your pet remains on a leash. Its paved surface makes it suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, ensuring accessibility for many visitors.
This trail stands out as a central green space, offering more than just a walk; it's a hub of activity and history. Beyond the natural beauty, you can explore cultural landmarks such as the historic Isaac Chase Mill and the Chase Home Museum of Utah Folk Arts, all within the park's boundaries. The Liberty Park Loop provides a unique blend of outdoor recreation and local heritage, right in the heart of the city.
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4.17km
01:45
310m
310m
Hike the moderate 2.6-mile Living Room Trail in Salt Lake City for panoramic views and a unique rock formation summit.
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20
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15.9km
04:41
450m
450m
Hike the Ensign Peak and Bonneville Shoreline Trail Loop for moderate terrain, panoramic Salt Lake City views, and historical significance.
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28
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7.54km
03:22
650m
650m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Very beautiful building complex. Open for visits.
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Utah State Capitol Building, Salt Lake City, United States 🇺🇸 The Utah State Capitol Building is a magnificent example of neoclassical architecture, perched grandly on Capitol Hill overlooking Salt Lake City. Its dome, reminiscent of the U.S. Capitol, is a prominent feature against the dramatic backdrop of the Wasatch Mountains. Inside, visitors are often struck by the grand staircase, intricate murals depicting Utah's history, and the beautiful stained-glass windows. Beyond its architectural beauty, the Capitol serves as the seat of government for the state of Utah, housing the offices of the governor, lieutenant governor, state legislature, and the state supreme court. The building is not only a functional governmental space but also a historical landmark, offering insights into the state's rich past and its legislative processes. It stands as a symbol of Utah's civic pride and enduring heritage. The grounds surrounding the Capitol are equally inviting, with beautifully landscaped gardens and panoramic views of the entire Salt Lake Valley. Many visitors enjoy strolling the pathways, picnicking on the lawns, or simply taking in the breathtaking vistas. The Capitol is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a blend of history, architecture, and scenic beauty that makes for a truly memorable visit.
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Beautiful viewpoint, right at the beginning of the Mount Wire Trail
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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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Emigration Canyon provides a beautiful view and is a National Historic Landmark. Mormon pioneers first entered the Salt Lake Valley through this canyon in 1847.
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This lookout gets its name from a series of rock formations shaped rather like living room furniture — but it's also a fantastic, quick (and very popular) destination for overlooks of Salt Lake City. Heads up: there is no shade at all on this run, so you're better off doing it in the early morning before things heat up.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
How many bus-accessible hiking trails are available around Salt Lake City?
There are nearly 30 hiking routes around Salt Lake City that are easily accessible by bus. These trails offer a range of experiences, from easy strolls to more challenging ascents, all within reach of public transportation.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes accessible by bus?
Yes, Salt Lake City offers several easy, family-friendly options accessible by bus. The Liberty Park Loop is a great choice for a gentle walk, perfect for all ages. For a distinctive natural feature, the Donut Falls trail in Big Cottonwood Canyon is also a popular family-friendly moderate hike, though it might require a short additional walk from the bus stop.
What are some moderate day hikes I can reach using public transport?
For moderate day hikes, consider the Living Room Trail, known for its unique rock formations and city views. Another excellent option is the Ensign Peak and Bonneville Shoreline Trail Loop, which offers historical significance and panoramic vistas of Salt Lake City and the Great Salt Lake.
Are there any challenging bus-accessible trails for experienced hikers?
Yes, for those seeking a more challenging experience, the Living Room (Viewpoint) loop from University of Utah offers a difficult ascent with rewarding views. The Wasatch Mountains provide numerous challenging peaks and alpine environments, many of which can be accessed via bus routes leading into the canyons.
Can I find loop trails that are accessible by public transport?
Absolutely. Many of the bus-accessible trails are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Liberty Park Loop and the Ensign Peak and Bonneville Shoreline Trail Loop. The Utah State Capitol – Memory Grove Park loop from Salt Lake City is another great option for a scenic loop.
What kind of scenic viewpoints can I expect on these trails?
The bus-accessible trails around Salt Lake City offer breathtaking scenic viewpoints. You can enjoy panoramic views of the city, the vast Great Salt Lake, and the dramatic Wasatch Mountains. Specific highlights include the View of Salt Lake City from Ensign Peak and the View of Salt Lake City from Mount Wire.
Are there any interesting landmarks or attractions near the bus-accessible hiking routes?
Many trails are close to significant landmarks. For instance, the Utah State Capitol is a prominent feature near some routes, and Temple Square is also easily accessible. The trails themselves often lead to natural attractions like the unique Donut Falls or offer views of various mountain peaks such as Mount Olympus.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Salt Lake City?
The komoot community highly rates hiking in Salt Lake City, with an average score of 4.6 stars from 55 reviews. Hikers often praise the incredible accessibility of diverse trails directly from the city, the stunning panoramic views of the Wasatch Mountains and Great Salt Lake, and the variety of landscapes from lush canyons to alpine lakes.
What is the best time of year to hike these bus-accessible trails?
Salt Lake City's bus-accessible trails can be enjoyed year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Spring brings wildflowers and flowing waterfalls, while summer provides lush greenery and cooler temperatures in the canyons. Fall is spectacular with vibrant autumn foliage. Winter offers unique opportunities for snowshoeing or winter hiking on lower elevation trails, though higher routes may require specialized gear.
Are there any dog-friendly hiking trails accessible by bus?
Many trails in the Salt Lake City area are dog-friendly, though regulations can vary by canyon and specific trail. Millcreek Canyon, for example, is known for being very dog-friendly, with trails like Dog Lake. Always check local regulations for specific trails regarding leash laws and allowed areas before heading out with your furry friend, especially when using public transport.
What should I pack for a hike on a bus-accessible trail in Salt Lake City?
Even on bus-accessible trails, it's wise to be prepared. Essential items include plenty of water, snacks, appropriate layers for changing weather conditions (especially in the mountains), sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and sturdy hiking shoes. A map or GPS device is also recommended, along with a fully charged phone. For longer or more challenging hikes, consider a first-aid kit and emergency supplies.
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