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Between five national parks and endless mountain ranges, Utah is home to some great views and hikes. You might see people posting on social media their selfies at the top of Mount Olympus or Mount Timpanogos, but for many novice hikers, these peaks aren't easily accessible.
If you still want to get out of the house and explore Utah's mountains and peaks, there are some incredible hikes for nearly anyone.
Here are some beginner-friendly peaks that offer some of the best views in the entire state.
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Ensign Peak is a historic landmark. Utah.com says this is where Utah founder Brigham Young and other pioneer leaders looked out on the valley and made plans for the city.
In current times, this peak offers an incredible view of the state capitol, with its tall dome and spire leaning over the city. From this peak, any hiker can get the perfect view of both downtown Salt Lake and the Wasatch Mountains in the distance.
According to AllTrails, this hike takes an average of 37 minutes to complete. While it may be steep for the few short moments that you walk, there are plenty of places to stop and take breaks if needed. The trail to the peak is open year-round and is also dog friendly, but be sure to bring a leash!
Brian Head Peak
With an average of a 4-minute trip, this is sure to cater to just about everyone. The peak is the highest point of the Cedar City Ranger District and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
At only .3 kilometers, even the most novice hikers can manage to make this peak. AllTrails says the best times to visit the peak are from June to November when the valley is covered in deep green and the skies are a vibrant blue.
Sardine Peak Trail
If you've got some time to kill, this trail is for you. AllTrails reports the hike to Sardine Peak is 8.3 miles and takes about four hours to complete. The beauty of northern Utah and views of Pineview Reservoir make this moderate hike worth your time.
One AllTrails user said, "Beautiful trail. Great views once you get to sardine peak. The butterflies were everywhere! Really cool."
If you're planning on bringing your furry friend along, you're in luck! This trail is dog friendly, and even allows dogs off leash during certain stretches. Just remember to clean up after Fido
Mount Ellen
An AllTrails reviewer said he saw a 3-year-old and 6-year-old complete this hike, so it should be fairly manageable for most people. Though you may not have the energy of a 6-year-old anymore, you can make the peak of the Henry Mountains with a little time and planning.
According to Road Trip Ryan, you'll want a vehicle that can handle some rocky roads as you drive up to the trailhead. Even though it's an adventurous drive to the trail, Ryan says it's worth it. "The hike to the summit starts at Bull Pass (10,500), making the summit of Ellen fairly easy compared to other high points. Mt. Ellen is a must do for peak baggers or desert lovers."
This out and back hike is about 5.6 miles and takes about three and a half hours to finish, says AllTrails. Don't be afraid to take some breaks, as you will climb 1,811 feet on your journey.
Avenues Twin Peaks
If you're in the Salt Lake area and don't have time to travel far, the Avenue Twin Peaks hike is an excellent option. The views are—as you can imagine—stunning as you look out on the Salt Lake Valley. One AllTrails reviewer wrote, "Beautiful views and spring flowers. Nice mixture of easy and moderate climbs. The views are 1,000 times worth it."
Clocking in at just over three and a half miles, you'll find this hike is an easy one to complete before or after the workday. In fact, many hikers prefer those times of the day to go, as there isn't much shade. Along the trail you might run into mountain bikers, trail runners, and even leashed dogs, so remember to share the road!
Buffalo Peak Trail
You've never seen Provo—or Utah County—from this height. The panoramic views you'll see from Buffalo Peak are top-notch, making this moderate hike worth every step.
Located near Provo, you'll drive a short distance into the canyon before turning off and driving up the mountain even further. If you're coming from Salt Lake City, the drive should be less than an hour to the trailhead.
AllTrails says this trail takes about 30 minutes to complete and is less than one mile.
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