The Salt Lake Overlook has dramatic views of the Salt Lake Valley and mountain peaks all around in Millcreek Canyon.
This trail can either be done eniirely on the Desolation Trail or including part of the Thaynes Canyon trail. Click on this link for that explanation.
I will explain it solely on the Destination Trail. There is a small parking lot just past the Millcreek Inn. It is the parking lot for both the Thaynes Canyon Trailhead and the Desolation Trail. The trail begins just west of the bathrooms. There is the first Desolation Trail sign and then around the corner is a larger sign with more destinations.
Continue along the path and very soon if forks into the Thaynes Canyon Trail and the Desolation Trail. They both meet up and for this trail we’ll be doing the Desolation Trail. The trail goes through the trees.
The viewpoints lower down are so spectacular in early October!
As you get a little higher, the path is lined with trees, like oaks and maples. This time of year it’s gorgeous!
It’s beautiful in the winter too!
The views are stunning as the trees open up!
The trail continues through the pines. This first photo was taken on the way down, so on the way up, you’ll go around the opposite direction.
Keep and eye out to the right and look for the sign that shows where to head up to the higher tier. If you stay on the main trail, it will join the Thaynes Canyon trail within 50 feet.
You have to climb up the rocks to the path that parallels the one below.
The path winds along the mountainside.
It has wide opening in the trees with impressive views!
I love all the fall leaves in Millcreek Canyon!
Near the end of the hike, the trail switches back and forth several times. This is a challenging hike for kids, but mine were champions this time!
As you come around the corner you can see the valley down below!
Here is the winter and summer view too.
The kids loved climbing up on the rocks to “their thrones”!
Every direction had gorgeous views!
We saw a few creatures as we hiked. There were several leaf-footed bugs, a wolf spider with an egg sac, a grasshopper hanging upside down, a mountain chickadee, and a red hawk (that picture didn’t turn out well).
Stats: Distance – 5.2 miles round trip
Approximate hiking time – 3 to 5 hours
Elevation gain – 1325 feet
Difficulty – Moderate (a couple difficult sections)
Trail – well maintained trail of dirt and rocks
Bathrooms – At the trailhead
Seasons to hike – Year round (microspikes necessary in winter)
Permits needed – $5 fee paid as you exit Millcreek Canyon
Dogs Allowed – Yes
Other hikes nearby are Rattlesnake Gulch, Thaynes Canyon Loop, Neff’s Canyon, Living Room Lookout, and Miller Park and Bonneville Glen Loop.
