Estimated read time: 7-8 minutes
Few things are as stunning as the Wasatch Front city lights nestled against a wintery mountain range. Hiking close to the city can be just as stunning as hiking to a summer waterfall.
Though it's starting to become uncomfortably chilly outside, being out in nature is good for the body and mind. Kathryn A. Eoecklein, Ph.D. and professor of psychology told NBC News, "Physiologically, we know serotonin levels in the brain are lowest in winter. Going outside can increase positive mood and alleviate depression."
Whether you want to boost your serotonin levels or see a stunning view, getting outside and walking on the trails is a great way to accomplish both. No matter what part of the valley you're in, you can find a hiking trail with a gorgeous view of the cities. Here are a few.
Y Mountain
Hiking the Y is a rite of passage for many BYU freshmen. It's also an extremely popular workout for avid trail runners and hikers in Utah County.
There are two options when hiking Y Mountain: the shorter hike to the Y and back, or a longer 6.6 mile out-and-back hike that takes you above the Y and to the top of the mountain, according to AllTrails.
The trail is open year-round and is well-maintained and clearly marked, so this is a great hike for beginners despite the intensity of the steep switchbacks. You'll get your leg workout trekking up the steep path whether you go the 2.2 miles roundtrip to the top of the Y or continue all the way up the mountain.
When you get to the top (of either hike) you'll be treated with a view of Utah Valley unlike any other. The shimmering Utah Lake and warm glow of homes in the distance is enough to make the trek worth it.
Ensign Peak
For one of the best views of Salt Lake City, head to Ensign Peak. The trailhead is just one mile north of the Utah State Capitol and has parking available. AllTrails classifies this trail as moderate, but the climb to the top is just that — a climb.
You'll get a lower body burn from the moderately steep trail, but at just under a mile, this hike is doable for all skill levels.
Learn about the history of the Salt Lake Valley from the educational signage along the way, then enjoy incredible views at the top. As a bonus, the trail is very well maintained and easily accessible, even in the winter.
Bear Canyon Bridge
If you like to add a little extra thrill to your hikes while still staying close to home, the Bear Canyon Suspension Bridge is the perfect hike for you. Part of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail system, this hike in Draper is roughly three miles long.
You'll get to walk over the iconic suspension bridge — perfect for snapping a photo — and enjoy great views without having to work too hard. Just take a look at some user-submitted photos on AllTrails to see what the fuss is about! According to AllTrails, the best time to visit this trail is January through October.
Bonneville Shoreline Trail Loop
The Bonneville Shoreline Trail Loop is a great spot for a taste of everything: city views, mountain views, and panoramic views of the whole valley. If you're not familiar with the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, it is a massive system of trails stretching from the northern Utah-Idaho border all the way down to Santaquin.
This loop is just a small section of the larger Bonneville Shoreline Trail, just above the University of Utah Hospital. To get there, park at Colorow Road and begin the roughly 2.3-mile loop.
AllTrails rates this loop as easy, so you could bring the pups, the kids and anyone who wants to take in some crisp winter air. The sweeping views of Salt Lake City are stunning, especially near sunset or sunrise.
Malan's Peak Trail
Farther north in Ogden, you'll see sweeping views of the valley and even the Great Salt Lake at the top of Malan's Peak Trail. The out-and-back trail is rated hard on AllTrails, and many people advise hikers to wear spikes as the weather turns cold. But the views at the top are absolutely worth the strenuous workout!
To achieve that stunning view, you'll have to gain about 2,000 feet in elevation on the 4.5-mile trek. One reviewer said, "I absolutely LOVED this trail! I ran/power hiked it in the evening and the views were insane!!! Don't get me wrong the elevation is harsh and the down hill will batter you but I think it's 100% worth it!"
The trailhead is located on the East side of Ogden off 29th Street. Bring warm clothes as this is a high-elevation hike.
The Living Room
Also in the neighborhood of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, the Living Room Lookout Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Salt Lake. The 2.3-mile out and back trail has 977 feet of elevation gain, so it's great if you want a bit more challenge.
Once you reach the top, you'll see why they call it the Living Room. You can take a seat and drink in the view from one of the "easy chairs" fashioned out of large slabs of rock. This hike is accessible year round, and with easy access from street parking, it's the perfect hike to gain some elevation without having to drive deep into the mountains.
Many Google reviewers rave about the splendid views at the top and even on the way up. If you're on the fence, take the advice of others and do it for the views.
Suncrest Trail
Once again, Draper is proving to be the place for stunning views of the valley and the cities. Suncrest Trail is situated near the point of the mountain so you'll get views of both Utah and Salt Lake Valleys.
The beginning of the trail takes you up a wide gravel service road for a loop just under three miles. It's part of the Draper City Trail System and truly one of the best views along the Wasatch Front.
One AllTrails user reviewed the hike saying, "Definitely go during sunset!! It's absolutely stunning. This is the most scenic hike I've ever been on. This will be a hike that I'll continue to go on throughout my life because of how amazing it is."
The path has a gentle grade that's not too steep for kids. You can even bring your pups, just make sure they are leashed.
7 of Utah's scariest places
Here are seven of Utah's scariest — but not haunted — places for all you adrenaline junkies out there.Siegfried & Jensen
Since 1990, Siegfried & Jensen have been helping the people of Utah and surrounding states who have suffered needless injuries and death caused by car accidents, truck accidents, medical malpractice, defective drugs, dog bites, wrongful death, and other types of personal injury.
The firm is committed to keeping Utah families and communities safe by ensuring wrongdoers are held accountable. While a lawsuit isn't always the answer when it is needed having someone on your side can mean the difference between declaring bankruptcy and rebuilding your life and moving forward, especially when you're up against an insurance company or a hospital.
Siegfried & Jensen has represented more than 35,000 clients and recovered over $1.2 billion for them.
