Desolation Trail to Salt Lake Overlook

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This is a great trail in Mill Creek Canyon. There are lots of switchbacks but nothing too steep or technical. Thayne Canyon is an alternate route either up or down if you would like to add some variety to your hike. The trail ends at the Salt Lake Overlook where you can enjoy great views of the of the Salt Lake valley.

There is a $3 fee when exiting Mill Creek Canyon in a car. No fee for pedestrians or bikes.

This is a fun, pretty straight-forward trail. The elevation gain is generally pretty steady, and there are quite a few switchbacks. There is a spot at about .75 miles where the trail intersects with the Thanye Canyon Trail. Be aware that where the Desolation Trail takes a hard right turn, there is a sign posted, but it is possible to miss it.

Continue up the trail, and at about 2.3 miles, there is a short spur that leads to an overlook of the Salt Lake valley. If you so choose, you can continue up the Desolation Trail all the way over into Big Cottonwood Canyon. Return to the trailhead the way you came or take the Thayne Canyon Trail back to the shared trailhead.