Summer Outdoor Adventure
Embark on this three-day summer adventure in Salt Lake City, where extraordinary hiking and biking await in the picturesque Wasatch Mountains. Explore the city's renowned mountain trails, then unwind each evening with outdoor green spaces in the city and a culinary exploration of Salt Lake’s diverse dining scene. Immerse yourself in the perfect blend of outdoor thrills and delicious gastronomy in Utah's vibrant capital!
Transportation: With destinations across the city and up into the mountains, we recommend access to a car for this itinerary.
Day 1: Mountain Biking
Breakfast: Over the Counter Cafe
2343 E 3300 S
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at this local favorite, known for its hearty and diverse menu.
Morning: Mountain Biking in Corner Canyon
Multiple trail locations near Highland Drive and 1300 E
Drive to Draper, which is about 25 minutes from Salt Lake City. Explore the world-class mountain biking trails in Corner Canyon. Popular trails include:
- Rush for an intermediate, flowy ride.
- Ann's Trail for a more technical challenge.
- Jacob's Ladder for a steep climb and a thrilling descent.
Lunch: City Creek Center
50 S Main Street
Enjoy a variety of dining options at City Creek Center, an upscale shopping mall located right next to Temple Square.
Afternoon: Memory Grove
300 N Canyon Road
Spend your afternoon at Memory Grove, a beautiful, dog friendly green space just below the Utah State Capitol, with close access to City Creek Canyon for more mountain adventure.
Dinner: Current Fish & Oyster
Located in the heart of downtown Salt Lake, Current Fish & Oyster offers a fresh, vibrant dining experience with sustainably sourced seafood and a creative menu. Enjoy their seasonal dishes and stylish atmosphere—a true gem for seafood lovers in the city!
Evening: Sugarhouse Park
1330 E 2100 South
Spend your evening at Sugarhouse Park, a popular spot for picnics, frisbee, or just relaxing.
Breakfast: Eggs in the City
2795 S 2300 E
Start your day with a hearty breakfast and the aptly (and deliciously) named Eggs in the City.
Morning: Hiking in Little Cottonwood Canyon
Multiple Trailheads on Little Cottonwood Canyon Road
Choose from the numerous hiking trails in Little Cottonwood, such as Albion Basin at Alta or Cecret Lake, to experience the area's stunning beauty.
Lunch: The Forklift
9385 S Snowbird Center Trail #094, Snowbird
Head to Snowbird and enjoy a mountain-themed lunch at The Forklift.
Afternoon: Snowbird Aerial Tram Ride
9385 S Snowbird Center Trail, Snowbird
Take the aerial tram ride from Snowbird to the top of Hidden Peak. Enjoy breathtaking mountain views and explore the hiking trails at the summit.
Dinner: Avenues Proper
376 8th Avenue
Head back to Salt Lake City and dine at Avenues Proper, a brewery and restaurant known for its craft beer and delicious food.
Breakfast: The Rose Establishment
Enjoy a hearty breakfast at The Rose Establishment, known for its artisanal coffee and farm-to-table dishes. Just a short walk from the city center, this cafe is the perfect place to start your weekend morning in Salt Lake!
Morning: Hiking in Big Cottonwood Canyon
Multiple trailheads on Big Cottonwood Canyon Road
Drive to Big Cottonwood Canyon, about 30 minutes from downtown. Choose from easy, moderate, or challenging hikes, including Silver Lake Trail and Lake Blanche Trail.
Lake Blanche Trail
All photos by Outdoor Project Contributor, Kyle Jenkins Pros: Amazing views down…
Silver Lake/Lake Solitude
1.75 mi/2.8 km one-way — This hike starts at Brighton Resort, 15 miles up Big…
Lake Mary to Twin Lakes Reservoir Loop Trail
A medium-length family friendly hike with beautiful lake view. This well trafficked…
Afternoon: Picnic at Donut Falls
Donut Falls Trailhead
For the afternoon, combine a hike with a picnic lunch at Donut Falls. This is a unique spot where water cascades through a hole in the rock, creating a donut-like effect. It's a short, easy walk to reach the falls.
Evening: Van Ryder
145 S 300 West
Finish out your 3 days of exploration with a gorgeous view of the Wasatch Mountains from the rooftop patio at Van Ryder – where you can get delicious dinner and drinks.
This itinerary will give you a taste of a few of the city's best outdoor adventures, both in the mountains and in the city, and tastiest culinary delights during the season that showcases the mountains in all their finest greenery. Enjoy your visit to Salt Lake!