Photo: Mustafa Bulent Igdelioglu
Photo: J Vyeknom
Photo: Chris Wilson
Mount Olympus Trailhead
★4.8(721 reviews)FreeAdventure
🕑 1.5-3 hours for families hiking the lower trails to the first saddle and back👶 Best for ages 5 and up. Elementary-aged children with some hiking experience will enjoy the lower trails, while teens may be ready to tackle more challenging sections. The rocky terrain and elevation gain make this less suitable for toddlers or children in strollers.🧡 Saved by 30 families
About
Mount Olympus Trailhead offers families a perfect introduction to hiking in Utah's stunning Wasatch Mountains. While the full summit trail is challenging, the lower portions provide accessible, family-friendly paths where kids can explore nature, spot wildlife, and enjoy breathtaking canyon views without the commitment of a full mountain ascent.
Highlights
- ✓Stunning panoramic views of the Salt Lake Valley that get better with every step up
- ✓Wildlife spotting opportunities including squirrels, birds, and occasionally deer
- ✓Rocky terrain perfect for kids who love scrambling and light climbing
- ✓Beautiful wildflowers in spring and vibrant foliage in fall
- ✓Sense of accomplishment reaching viewpoints without committing to the full summit
Pro Tips
- 1.Start early (before 8 AM) to avoid crowds and afternoon heat, especially during summer months when the trail gets extremely busy
- 2.Plan to turn around at the first saddle (about 1.5 miles) for a manageable family hike with rewarding views,the full summit is extremely strenuous
- 3.Bring at least twice as much water as you think you'll need; the trail is exposed with little shade and Utah's dry climate dehydrates quickly
- 4.Park in the lower lot and arrive early on weekends as the small parking area fills up by mid-morning, forcing roadside parking
- 5.Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good traction as the trail is rocky and steep even in the lower sections
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the most comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery. Weekday mornings are ideal to avoid crowds. Summer is popular but very hot with limited shade, so early morning visits (5-7 AM) are essential.
What to Know
Parking and trail access are completely free. The trailhead has limited parking with no facilities, so use restrooms before arriving and pack out all trash. The trail is not stroller-accessible due to rocky, steep terrain.
Seasonal Notes
Trail is accessible year-round but can be icy and dangerous in winter (November-March) requiring microspikes. Spring brings wildflowers and cooler temperatures. Summer is hot and exposed,visit early morning only. Fall offers perfect hiking weather and beautiful colors. Trail can close temporarily during extreme weather or fire danger.
Nearby Eats
Stop at Kneaders Bakery & Cafe (about 2 miles away) for fresh sandwiches and pastries perfect for post-hike refueling, or grab burgers and shakes at Five Guys in the nearby Holladay shopping area.
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