One of Salt Lake City's greatest advantages is that real alpine country begins at the edge of the suburbs. Within 30 to 45 minutes of downtown you can be walking through wildflower meadows at 9,000 feet beside a glacier-carved lake, and a guided hike makes that easy for visitors who do not know the trails or the conditions. The canyons east of the city, Big Cottonwood and Little Cottonwood, are home to a network of trails to lakes such as Silver Lake, Lake Mary, Lake Blanche and Cecret Lake, and they range from short family strolls to full-day climbs. The guided hike to a meadow or alpine lake is designed to be accessible: a trail that suits most fitness levels, a guide who handles transport, and commentary about the plants, wildlife and geology along the way. You will see the effects of glaciers on the shape of the valleys, learn about the watershed that supplies the city's drinking water, and enjoy the quiet of the high country. The scenery changes sharply with the season, so no two visits are alike, and a good guide will choose the trail that is at its best on your date.
Timing is everything in the high country. Snow lingers well into June above 9,000 feet, so early-season hikes can be wet and patchy. Late June to early August brings the peak of the wildflower bloom, especially in Albion Basin above Alta, where meadows turn colors in July and a local wildflower festival celebrates the show. September brings golden aspens and crisp air, and the first snows in October usually end the hiking season. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so guides start early and plan to be off exposed ground before the clouds build.
Wildlife is part of the appeal. Moose are a regular sight near the lakes and wet meadows, mule deer are common, and the high country is home to marmots, pikas, mountain goats and a wide range of birds. Keep your distance from any large animal, especially moose with calves, and never feed wildlife.
The canyons are also part of the Salt Lake City watershed, and rules protect it: swimming and dog access are restricted in many areas, and visitors are asked to stay on trails and pack out everything. Guides explain the rules and why they exist.
Practical sense
Altitude is real. Even fit visitors can feel the thin air at 9,000 feet, so go slowly, drink water, and allow a day or two to acclimate if you are coming from sea level. Wear layers, sturdy shoes and sun protection, and carry water, a snack and a light rain jacket. Hikes are weather dependent, and operators will adjust the plan or reschedule if conditions are unsafe. The same canyons that host winter skiing are open for hiking in summer, so this is the easiest way to see the mountains outside ski season.
Pair a morning hike with a relaxed afternoon in the city, the Natural History Museum or Red Butte Garden, and finish with dinner downtown. If you would rather hike on your own afterward, ask your guide which nearby trails suit your level and the season, since the same canyons offer short lakeside loops and long ridge routes, and local advice about snow, mud and stream crossings can save a wasted drive.
What to expect
The experience
A guided hike to a meadow or alpine lake in the Wasatch canyons, with transport from the city and commentary on plants, wildlife and geology.
Best time
Late June to early August for wildflowers; September for aspen color; start early to avoid afternoon storms.
How long
Roughly four to six hours including travel.
Tips
Layer up, carry water and sun protection, go slowly at altitude, and expect weather changes.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Hikers of moderate fitness who want mountain scenery without planning a route.
- Families
- Pick a short, easy trail with older children; the guide can advise on difficulty.
- Couples
- A quiet, scenic morning in the mountains followed by dinner in town.
- Pair with
- A relaxed afternoon in the city or the Natural History Museum.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
How hard is the hike?+
Guided options are chosen for moderate fitness. The altitude adds effort, so go slowly and drink water.
When are the wildflowers best?+
Typically from late June through early August, peaking around July in the high meadows.
Will we see moose?+
It is possible near the lakes and wet meadows. Sightings are never guaranteed, and distance is important.
Can I swim in the lakes?+
Often not. The canyons are part of the city's watershed, and swimming and dog rules apply in many areas. Your guide will explain.
What if the weather turns?+
Operators adjust or reschedule hikes for unsafe conditions, and afternoon summer storms are why most hikes start early.