Named one of priceline.com’s top pet friendly cities in the U.S., Salt Lake City, Utah, is a great destination for dogs and pet parents that love the outdoors. And what better way to enjoy the outdoors together than by going on a hike?
Here are just a few of the trails in Salt Lake City where you can bring your pooch to enjoy a little exercise and a spectacular view. Before you go, be sure to read 5 Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Hike with Your Dog.
1. Tibble Fork Loop Trail – American Fork Canyon Road (map), 888-999-4019
This 3.8-mile trail starts at the east side of the Tibble Fork Reservoir. You will have to park before crossing the dam. After two miles of hiking, you should see a sign for Mill Canyon Trail. According to Sports Guide Magazine, “Depending on the season, you’ll be immersed in blankets of wildflowers, changing fall leaves, shrubs and wildlife on this loop.” This trail also features several streams your pooch can enjoy when he gets thirsty.
To get to the Tibble Fork Loop Trail, the Salt Lake Tribune says to drive north on American Fork Canyon road from Highway 92. The road will split above Timpanogos Canyon. Turn left for Tibble Fork Reservoir and park near the Tibble Fork Dam to access the trailhead.
2. Alexander Basin – 8511 Mill Creek Canyon Road (map), 801-733-2660
If you and your dog are used to strenuous hiking, the Alexander Basin offers an advanced 2.5-mile hike with a steep trail through the forest. The payoff of this workout with your pooch is a beautiful glaciated bowl. “This hike is best done in summer and fall; wildflowers are bounteous and fall colors are gorgeous,” says Utah.com.
During the hike, you and your pooch will also be able to take in the view of the Mill Creek Canyon area and the Salt Lake Valley. Before heading out to the Alexander Basin trail, note that dogs are restricted from the groomed ski trail on odd-numbered calendar days during the winter. A $3 parking fee is collected when you exit the canyon.
3. Ensign Peak – 100-164 Ensign Vita Dr. (map)
An easy hike that’s great for walking your dog in the morning or after dinner, Ensign Peak is located at the north end of the Salt Lake Valley. To reach the peak, follow the well-kept trail to the top. You and your pooch can then follow the trail around the mountain in a leisurely loop.
On your hike around Ensign Peak, you can expect to see great views of the Salt Lake Valley. And, according to Salt Lake Magazine, this trail also has a little bit of history behind it: “Legend has it Brigham Young and his pioneer entourage scrambled to the top of Ensign Peak upon arrival in the Salt Lake Valley. They surveyed the mountain peaks to the east and the Great Salt Lake to the west and decided, indeed, they’d found the promised land.”
What a great way to take in a view of the city while visiting a place that made history.
PHOTO: Lowjumpingfrog