Near Desolation Trail to Salt Lake Overlook
Some fall colors near the intersection of the Desolation and Thaynes Canyon trails
Near Desolation Trail to Salt Lake Overlook
Sunrise on the Desolation Trail
Near Desolation Trail to Salt Lake Overlook
Pizza Man Overlook in Mill Creek

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Driving Directions
Classic Hike Route

Desolation Trail to Salt Lake Overlook

4.6 (26 Ratings)
A nice, quick hike for some elevation without anything too steep.
4.7
mi
Distance
1,466
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Regional Classic
A must do route for the area handpicked by local experts.
Fall ColorsViews
Access Issues
Dogs may be off leash on odd numbered days.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
4.69mi
Distance
1,466ft
Elevation Gain
1,466ft
Elevation Loss
--%
Max Grade
7,029ft
High Point
5,760ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
This is a fun, pretty straight-forward trail. The elevation gain is generally pretty steady, and there are quite a few switchbacks. There is a spot at about .75 miles where the trail intersects with the Thanye Canyon Trail. Be aware that where the Desolation Trail takes a hard right turn, there is a sign posted, but it is possible to miss it.Continue up the trail, and at about 2.3 miles, there is a short spur that leads to an overlook of the Salt Lake valley. If you so choose, you can continue up the Desolation Trail all the way over into Big Cottonwood Canyon. Return to the trailhead the way you came or take the Thayne Canyon Trail back to the shared trailhead.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Dan T.