The best walks and hikes around Emigration Canyon
4.7
(63)
2,100
hikers
149
hikes
Hiking around Emigration Canyon offers a diverse network of trails situated just east of Salt Lake City, Utah. The region is characterized by varied landscapes, including mountain views, extensive woodlands, and areas within the Red-Butte Wilderness. Hikers can explore routes that feature significant elevation changes, scenic vistas, and historical sites, providing a range of experiences from easy walks to more strenuous treks.
Best hiking trails around Emigration Canyon
- The most popular hiking route is Mount Wire and Red Butte loop — Foothills Natural Area, a 5.5 miles (8.8 km) trail that takes 3 hours 36 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Little Mountain Trail, a moderate 4.3 miles (6.9 km) path. This trail provides scenic views and a steady incline through natural terrain.
- Local hikers also love the Emigration Canyon Viewpoint loop — Foothills Natural Area, a 1.2 miles (1.9 km) trail leading through varied terrain to a scenic viewpoint, often completed in about 33 minutes.
- Hiking around Emigration Canyon is defined by diverse trail systems, mountain views, and vibrant fall foliage. The extensive network offers options for various ability levels, from easy walks to challenging ascents.
- The routes in Emigration Canyon are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 60 reviews. More than 2000 hikers have used komoot to explore Emigration Canyon's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
16
hikers
7.06km
03:11
620m
610m
Embark on a moderate hike along the Red Butte and Mount Wire Trail, a 4.4-mile (7.1 km) route that challenges you with 2041 feet (622 metres) of elevation gain. This journey typically takes around 3 hours and 10 minutes to complete. As you ascend, you'll find yourself surrounded by the natural beauty of the Foothills Natural Area. The path leads you to Red Butte, offering wide views of the eastern public lands. Continue further to Mount Wire for even broader perspectives of the Utah landscape and Salt Lake City.
Plan your visit for late spring or fall to enjoy comfortable temperatures, as sections of the trail are exposed to the sun. Be prepared for potentially muddy and slick conditions, especially after rain or snowmelt, and wear supportive footwear. The trailhead can be quite popular, so expect company during the first mile. However, the further you go, the more solitude you are likely to find on the path.
This trail is a highlight within the Foothills Natural Area, known for its diverse plant life and open spaces. Keep an eye out for wildflowers, particularly in late spring, which add vibrant colors to the landscape. The route provides a great opportunity to experience the unique ecosystem of the Utah foothills, offering a rewarding outdoor experience close to Salt Lake City.
2
hikers
1.44km
00:49
230m
0m
A difficult 0.9-mile hike in Salt Lake City with 748 feet of gain, leading to unique rock "furniture" and panoramic valley views.
Sign up for free
2
hikers
4.07km
02:00
630m
20m
Hike the Mount Wire Trail for a challenging climb, gaining 2055 feet over 2.5 miles, with panoramic views of Salt Lake Valley.
5.27km
01:35
230m
70m
The Little Mountain Ridge Trail offers a fantastic escape into nature right on the edge of Salt Lake City, providing sweeping panoramic views that stretch across Emigration Canyon, the Little Dell Reservoir, and even to Bald Mountain. You'll traverse undulating and rocky paths, winding through forested areas with ponderosa pines and quaking aspens, and in spring and summer, you might even spot vibrant wildflowers like Indian paintbrush. This 3.3-mile (5.3 km) hiking route, rated easy, is a great way to experience diverse terrain and stunning scenery in just about 1 hour and 35 minutes.
Planning your visit is straightforward, with the trailhead easily accessible from Emigration Canyon Road. While the trail is generally considered easy, expect some moderately challenging sections, including a short, steep climb to the ridge. It's a popular spot, so you might encounter other hikers, especially during peak times. The trail is best enjoyed from May to October, but its lower elevation makes it a good choice for shoulder seasons when higher trails are inaccessible. Just remember that pets are generally not allowed on this route.
Beyond the beautiful vistas, the Little Mountain Ridge Trail holds significant historical value, following a route used by the Donner Party and later by Mormon pioneers entering the Salt Lake Valley. Its ridge-line location ensures continuous, expansive views, making it a prime spot for sunset watching. Keep an eye out for local wildlife too; moose, deer, and elk are often spotted here, adding to the trail's appeal as a quick, accessible nature retreat.
22
hikers
8.84km
03:37
650m
650m
Hike the moderate 5.5-mile Mount Wire and Living Room Loop for panoramic views of Salt Lake City and the unique Living Room rock formations.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
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
Wonderful viewpoint on the Mount Wire trail
2
0
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
3
1
"Little Mountain Pass" is really the summit of Little Mountain. There are awesome views from this high point on Emigration Canyon Road.
1
0
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.
0
0
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!
0
0
"Little Mountain Pass" is really the summit of Little Mountain. There are awesome views from this high point on Emigration Canyon Road.
2
1
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) hiking destination for overlooks of Salt Lake City. Heads up: there is no shade at all on this hike.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of hiking trails can I find in Emigration Canyon?
Emigration Canyon offers a diverse network of trails, ranging from easy walks to more strenuous treks. You'll find routes with significant elevation changes, scenic vistas, and historical sites. The area features mountain views, extensive woodlands, and parts of the Red-Butte Wilderness. In total, there are over 110 hiking routes available.
Are there any easy or family-friendly hiking options in Emigration Canyon?
Yes, Emigration Canyon has several easy trails suitable for families or those seeking a less strenuous experience. For example, the Emigration Canyon Viewpoint loop — Foothills Natural Area is an easy 1.2-mile path that offers varied terrain to a scenic viewpoint. Overall, there are 36 easy routes in the area.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Emigration Canyon?
Many trails in Emigration Canyon are dog-friendly, making it a great spot to enjoy the outdoors with your pet. The Emigration Canyon Miners Trail, located in the Red-Butte Wilderness area, is a notable dog-friendly option that follows an old mining road and offers gorgeous views.
What kind of views or natural features can I expect to see while hiking?
Emigration Canyon is renowned for its picturesque scenery. Hikers can enjoy stunning mountain views, vibrant fall foliage, and diverse landscapes. Notable viewpoints include the Living Room (Viewpoint), which offers rewarding vistas, and the View of Salt Lake City from Mount Wire. You can also find the This Is The Place Heritage Park, adding a historical dimension to your visit.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Emigration Canyon?
Yes, Emigration Canyon offers several excellent circular routes. A popular choice is the Mount Wire and Red Butte loop — Foothills Natural Area, a moderate 5.5-mile trail providing panoramic views. Another option is the Emigration Canyon Viewpoint and Mount Wire Loop — Salt Lake City, Utah, which is a 4.5-mile moderate hike.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Emigration Canyon?
Emigration Canyon is beautiful year-round, but it's particularly renowned for its vibrant fall foliage, making autumn a spectacular time to visit. Spring and summer also offer pleasant hiking conditions. For winter hikes, be prepared for snow and check trail conditions beforehand.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Emigration Canyon?
The trails in Emigration Canyon are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 60 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse trail systems, stunning mountain views, and the vibrant fall colors. Over 2000 hikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain here.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced hikers?
Absolutely. For those seeking a greater challenge, Emigration Canyon offers several difficult routes. The Lookout Peak — Emigration Canyon is a difficult 8.3-mile route with significant elevation gain. More strenuous options like Dry Creek to City Creek Out-and-back, Deso-Crest-Dog Loop, and Jacob's Ladder Trail are also available for experienced trekkers.
Where can I find parking for Emigration Canyon trails?
Emigration Canyon is easily accessible from Salt Lake City, with many trailheads starting near the University of Utah. Specific parking information can vary by trailhead, so it's advisable to check the details for your chosen route on komoot before you go.
Are there any historical sites or points of interest along the trails?
Yes, Emigration Canyon holds historical importance. It was named after the Mormon Pioneer emigration in 1847. On trails like the Emigration Canyon Miners Trail, you can encounter sites of old mines, adding a historical dimension to your outdoor adventure. The This Is The Place Heritage Park is also a notable historical site nearby.
What is the general difficulty level of hikes in Emigration Canyon?
The trails in Emigration Canyon cater to a wide range of abilities. Out of over 110 routes, you'll find approximately 36 easy trails, 70 moderate trails, and 10 difficult trails, ensuring there's something for every skill level.
Are there any 'hidden gem' trails in Emigration Canyon?
While many trails are well-known, the Emigration Canyon Ridgeline Trail is often described as a hidden gem. It offers scenic ridge hiking between Parley's Canyon and Emigration Canyon, providing a unique perspective and a quieter experience.
Most popular attractions around Emigration Canyon
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
