Salt Lake City is known for its incredible outdoor recreation opportunities, making it one of the best places in the country for students who love nature and adventure. Surrounded by the Wasatch Mountains and located close to canyons, lakes, and scenic overlooks, the city offers hiking trails for every skill level—from beginner-friendly walks to challenging mountain summits.
For students living in student housing in Salt Lake City, hiking is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to stay active, reduce stress, and explore Utah’s natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for a quick trail after class, a weekend outdoor adventure, or a scenic workout with friends, there are countless hiking opportunities located near the University of Utah.
This guide highlights some of the best hikes in the Salt Lake City area along with important hiking tips, safety advice, and outdoor recommendations for students.
LIVE NEAR THE BEST HIKES IN SLC
Why Hiking Is Popular Among University of Utah Students
College life can become stressful, especially during midterms, finals, and busy semesters. Hiking gives students a chance to disconnect from screens, get fresh air, and recharge mentally and physically.
Students living in off-campus housing near the University of Utah often enjoy hiking because it offers:
Affordable outdoor recreation
Stress relief and mental wellness benefits
Scenic mountain views
Opportunities to socialize with friends
Convenient access to nearby trails
Physical activity without needing a gym
Salt Lake City’s close proximity to mountains and canyons makes outdoor activities easy to fit into student schedules.
Benefits of hiking include:
Improved mental health
Better cardiovascular fitness
Reduced stress and anxiety
Increased energy levels
Better sleep quality
Opportunities to explore Utah’s scenery
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or completely new to the outdoors, Salt Lake City has trails for every comfort level.
Best Hikes in Salt Lake City for All Skill Levels
1. Ensign Peak
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 0.9 miles out and back
Elevation Gain: 374 feet
Ensign Peak is one of the most popular beginner-friendly hikes near downtown Salt Lake City. The relatively short trail rewards hikers with panoramic views of the city skyline, the Great Salt Lake, and the surrounding mountains.
Because it’s short and accessible, this trail is especially popular among college students looking for a quick outdoor activity between classes or on weekends.
Why Students Love It
Short hiking time
Beautiful city views
Great sunset destination
Convenient location near downtown
Hiking Tip
Visit during sunset for incredible views of the city lights and mountain scenery.
2. Donut Falls
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.5 miles out and back
Elevation Gain: 291 feet
Donut Falls is a scenic and beginner-friendly hike located in Big Cottonwood Canyon. The trail leads hikers to a unique waterfall flowing through a circular opening in the rock, giving the trail its famous name.
The relatively easy terrain makes this a great option for students who want a relaxing outdoor experience without a strenuous climb.
Why Students Love It
Short and scenic trail
Beautiful waterfall views
Ideal for beginners
Great for group hikes
Hiking Tip
Late spring and early summer often provide the strongest waterfall flow.
3. Lake Blanche Trail
Difficulty: Hard
Distance: 7 miles out and back
Elevation Gain: 2,811 feet
Lake Blanche Trail is one of the most iconic hikes near Salt Lake City. Located in Big Cottonwood Canyon, the trail climbs steadily before opening to breathtaking views of an alpine lake surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks.
This trail is more physically demanding, but the scenery makes the effort worthwhile.
Why Students Love It
Stunning alpine lake views
Challenging workout
Excellent photography opportunities
Beautiful fall colors
Hiking Tip
Bring extra water and start early, especially during warmer months.
4. Grandeur Peak
Difficulty: Hard
Distance: 5.6 miles out and back
Elevation Gain: 2,352 feet
Grandeur Peak offers one of the best summit views overlooking Salt Lake City and the surrounding Wasatch Mountains. The trail provides a challenging climb that attracts experienced hikers and fitness enthusiasts.
Students looking for a tougher workout often choose Grandeur Peak for its rewarding panoramic scenery.
Why Students Love It
Incredible summit views
Challenging elevation gain
Popular sunrise hike
Accessible from the city
Hiking Tip
Bring layers, as temperatures and wind conditions can change quickly near the summit.
5. Mount Olympus
Difficulty: Hard
Distance: 6.9 miles out and back
Elevation Gain: 4,087 feet
Mount Olympus is considered one of the most difficult and rewarding hikes in the Salt Lake area. The steep switchbacks and rocky terrain create a serious physical challenge, but the summit views are unforgettable.
This hike is best suited for experienced hikers comfortable with elevation gain and rugged conditions.
Why Students Love It
Intense physical challenge
Iconic Utah hiking experience
Amazing mountain and valley views
Great training hike
Hiking Tip
Start early in the morning during summer months to avoid heat and crowds.
6. Living Room Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 2.3 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 977 feet
The Living Room Trail is one of the most popular hikes among University of Utah students because of its proximity to campus and rewarding city views.
The summit features rock formations arranged like furniture, giving the trail its memorable name.
Why Students Love It
Close to campus
Great sunset views
Moderate difficulty
Popular social hiking spot
Hiking Tip
Bring a flashlight or headlamp if hiking at sunset, since the descent becomes dark quickly.
Additional Outdoor Activities Near Salt Lake City
Students living in off-campus housing by U of U have access to much more than hiking alone. Salt Lake City is known for year-round outdoor recreation opportunities.
Popular activities include:
Skiing and snowboarding
Mountain biking
Rock climbing
Camping
Paddleboarding
Trail running
Snowshoeing
Utah’s outdoor lifestyle is one of the biggest reasons many students enjoy living near the University of Utah.
Essential Hiking Tips for Students
Check Weather Conditions Before Hiking
Mountain weather in Utah can change quickly. Even sunny mornings can turn into rainy or stormy afternoons.
Before hiking, always check:
Temperature forecasts
Rain or thunderstorm chances
Trail conditions
Snow conditions during colder months
Being prepared helps hikers stay safe and comfortable.
Stay Hydrated
Utah’s dry climate and higher elevation can lead to dehydration faster than many students expect.
Bring more water than you think you’ll need, especially during summer hikes or trails with significant elevation gain.
Wear Proper Footwear
Many Salt Lake City trails include steep, rocky, or uneven terrain. Proper hiking shoes or trail-running shoes provide better traction and support than regular sneakers.
Pack Basic Hiking Essentials
Even shorter hikes should include basic safety items.
Important hiking gear includes:
Water
Snacks
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Lightweight layers
Phone or GPS
Small first-aid kit
Students planning longer hikes should also consider bringing portable chargers and emergency supplies.
Be Aware of Wildlife
Utah trails are home to wildlife such as moose, deer, black bears, and mountain lions.
Students should:
Keep a safe distance from animals
Stay alert on trails
Avoid feeding wildlife
Make noise while hiking in isolated areas
Respecting wildlife helps keep both hikers and animals safe.
Practice Leave No Trace Principles
Salt Lake City’s trails remain beautiful because visitors help protect them.
Students should always:
Pack out trash
Stay on designated trails
Respect nature and wildlife
Avoid damaging plants or rocks
Responsible hiking helps preserve Utah’s outdoor spaces for future visitors.
Hiking and Student Wellness
Hiking offers more than physical exercise—it also supports mental wellness during stressful college semesters.
Many students use hiking as a way to:
Reduce academic stress
Improve mental clarity
Spend time outdoors
Connect with friends
Take breaks from screens and studying
Students living in University of Utah student housing often appreciate having easy access to outdoor recreation opportunities that support healthier lifestyles.
Balancing Outdoor Recreation and College Life
One of the advantages of living in Salt Lake City is the ability to balance academics with outdoor adventure. Students can attend classes during the week while still enjoying hiking, skiing, and recreation opportunities nearby.
Living in off-campus housing near the University of Utah gives students convenient access to:
Mountain trails
Public transportation
Outdoor recreation areas
Campus facilities
Student social activities
For many students, Utah’s outdoor lifestyle becomes one of the most memorable parts of their college experience.
Staying Fueled for Outdoor Adventures
Long hikes and outdoor activities require energy, hydration, and proper nutrition. Students can save money and stay energized by preparing simple meals and snacks at home before heading to the trails.
Foods like protein wraps, smoothies, pasta dishes, trail mix, breakfast scrambles, and sandwiches are great for hiking days. Check out our blog on quick and easy college meals for affordable recipes that fit busy student lifestyles.
Living Near Some of the Best Hiking Trails in Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City offers some of the best hiking opportunities in the country, especially for students who enjoy staying active and exploring the outdoors. From beginner-friendly trails like Donut Falls to challenging summit hikes like Mount Olympus, there are options for every experience level.
Whether you’re hiking to reduce stress, stay active, enjoy scenic views, or spend time with friends, outdoor recreation can become an important part of your college experience at the University of Utah.
At Unite Student Living, students living near campus enjoy convenient access to Salt Lake City’s incredible hiking trails, outdoor recreation opportunities, and student-friendly lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best hikes near the University of Utah?
Popular hikes near the University of Utah include Living Room Trail, Ensign Peak, Donut Falls, Grandeur Peak, and Mount Olympus.
Are there beginner-friendly hikes in Salt Lake City?
Yes, trails like Donut Falls and Ensign Peak are great options for beginner hikers.
When is the best time to hike in Salt Lake City?
Late spring through early fall is generally considered the best hiking season due to moderate temperatures and accessible trails.
Do students need hiking experience to explore Utah trails?
No, Salt Lake City offers trails for all skill levels, including easy hikes suitable for beginners.
What should students bring on hikes in Utah?
Students should bring water, snacks, sunscreen, proper footwear, and layers for changing weather conditions.
Are dogs allowed on Salt Lake City hiking trails?
Some trails allow dogs, but certain canyon areas have restrictions due to watershed regulations.
Why is hiking popular among University of Utah students?
Hiking provides affordable recreation, stress relief, exercise, and access to Utah’s scenic mountain landscapes.
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