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Mount Olympus Trail route in Millcreek, UT
Photo: Marissa Dunn
View of Mount Olympus Trail in Millcreek, UT
Photo: Keyvan Oskooi
View of Mount Olympus Trail in Millcreek, UT
Photo: Keyvan Oskooi

Mount Olympus Trail

FreeAdventure
🕑 1.5-3 hours depending on how far up the trail you venture with kids👶 Best for ages 6 and up. The lower trails are manageable for elementary-aged children who can handle moderate inclines and uneven terrain. Teens and tweens will appreciate the challenge of pushing further up the trail system for more dramatic viewpoints.

About

Mount Olympus Trail offers multiple hiking options in Millcreek Canyon, making it ideal for families who want to experience Utah's stunning mountain scenery without committing to extreme difficulty. The lower portions of the trail system provide accessible nature walks with rewarding views, perfect for introducing kids to mountain hiking while staying close to Salt Lake City.

Highlights

  • Stunning Wasatch Mountain views visible even from the lower trail sections
  • Opportunities to spot wildlife including deer, birds, and occasionally moose
  • Rocky terrain that makes kids feel like real adventurers
  • Shaded forest sections providing relief on warm days
  • Multiple stopping points with natural seating rocks for snack breaks

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Start early (7-8 AM) to avoid afternoon heat and secure parking at the popular trailhead, which fills up quickly on weekends
  2. 2.Stick to the lower trail sections with young kids,the full Mount Olympus summit trail is extremely strenuous and not appropriate for children
  3. 3.Bring plenty of water (more than you think you'll need) as there are no facilities or water sources on the trail
  4. 4.Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip as the trail can be rocky and steep even on lower sections
  5. 5.Download an offline trail map before you go as cell service can be spotty in the canyon

Best Time to Visit

Late spring through early fall (May-October) offers the best conditions. Visit on weekday mornings to avoid crowds. Summer mornings (before 9 AM) provide cooler temperatures, and early fall offers beautiful foliage without the intense heat.

What to Know

There is a small fee to enter Millcreek Canyon (currently $3 per vehicle). The trailhead has limited parking that fills quickly, and there are no restroom facilities at the trailhead, so plan accordingly before arriving.

Seasonal Notes

Trail is typically snow-covered and icy from November through April, making it unsuitable for family hiking. Peak wildflower season is June-July. Fall colors appear in late September through October. Check canyon status before visiting as Millcreek occasionally closes due to fire danger in late summer.

Nearby Eats

Head to Millcreek Coffee Roasters (10 minutes away) for casual breakfast and lunch options, or visit Ruth's Diner in Emigration Canyon (15 minutes) for their famous mile-high biscuits and family-friendly patio dining.

More Activities Near Millcreek

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Millcreek Canyon

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Millcreek Canyon offers families an easily accessible mountain escape just minutes from Salt Lake City, featuring multiple hiking trails suitable for little legs, gentle creek areas where kids can splash and play, and shaded picnic spots perfect for family lunches. The well-maintained paths wind through beautiful scenery with opportunities to spot wildlife, making it an ideal introduction to hiking for younger children while still offering enough variety to keep older kids engaged.

Sports

Skyline Water Polo

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Skyline Water Polo offers a welcoming indoor aquatic facility perfect for families looking to enjoy quality swim time year-round in Millcreek. With dedicated family swim sessions, swim lessons for all skill levels, and public swim times, this community-focused facility provides a comfortable environment where kids can build water confidence and parents can relax knowing their children are in a safe, well-maintained pool.

Park

Canyon Rim Park

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Canyon Rim Park is a peaceful neighborhood gem in Millcreek that offers families a relaxed outdoor escape without the crowds of larger parks. With well-maintained playgrounds, sports courts for active kids, and scenic walking paths perfect for stroller walks or family bike rides, it's an ideal spot for a casual afternoon of play or a leisurely family picnic.

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Evergreen Park

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Evergreen Park is a sprawling Millcreek neighborhood gem that offers something for every member of the family. With multiple playgrounds, open sports fields perfect for impromptu soccer games, and shaded walking paths ideal for stroller walks, this highly-rated park has become a go-to destination for local families who appreciate its well-maintained facilities and welcoming community atmosphere.