Running on Eddie: Grandeur Peak

Sunday, November 8, 2015

Grandeur Peak Hike - Salt Lake City, UT

Believe it or not, I've had that walking stick for over 3 years now.

Introduction

Being that I'll be out of town this coming weekend and the weather getting particularly more winter-like, I opted to go for what will probably be my last hike for 2015.

I've done all the trails at least once in Little and Big Cottonwood but it had been a while since I had been to Millcreek Canyon. Millcreek is one canyon north of Big Cottonwood and takes just a few more minutes to get to. Also on the downside it does cost $3 to get into.

After doing some research I figured I'd make another attempt at climbing to the top of Grandeur Peak -- nestled high above the I-80 / I-215 interchange. It stands just shy of 8300 and is one of the prominent peaks when you are looking in from the valley.

I parked at the Church Fork Trail and made my way up to the top. Gentle and regular readers my recall that I attempted to climb it from the west and it is definitely a LOT harder.

This way is also a lot prettier, with far more trees and even a waterfall or two. There is definitely a climb involved, but it is much easier.

I also found this trail highly runnable.

There was some ice and some very technical parts near the top but overall, anyone with basic ability can make it to the top and see some glorious views of the Salt Lake valley.

There were a fair amount of people on the trail and today it was open to dogs, so I got my fair share of greets from happy dogs. Keep in mind that the trail is open to mountain bikes as well on odd numbered days.

Church Fork trail can be found about 2.4 miles from the toll booth and there is a sign for it. The trail was fairly easy to follow but there were a few spots where the trail sort of meandered away and it wasn't clear where to go. Luckily if you study the maps before you go, it isn't that hard to figure out where to go. Again, there were a fair amount of people on the trail too.

Enjoy the photos:

Grandeur Peak ahead

View from Grandeur Peak

Sunday, May 18, 2014

Grandeur Peak Wasatch Mountains Utah

Another perfect day for a hike and I was interested in finding a new trail. One of the more popular canyons in the area is Millcreek Canyon and I started to Google around, looking for a new trail. I discovered Grandeur Peak Trail.

The parking lot for this trail is located at about 2945 S Wasatch Blvd at the junction of the 215 and highway 80. There is limited parking here but I was lucky and nailed a spot.

This trail, from a technical standpoint is easy. Endurance-wise - not so much. In about 2.75 miles you will climb 3300 feet. There isn't a lick of shade on the trail either, so bring plenty of water. You will be sucking wind as well as water nearly from the get-go (there is a working drinking fountain in the parking lot).

What you are rewarded with are beautiful views of the entire Salt Lake Valley. Within a short while you can easily see Antelope Island, Stansbury Island, downtown Salt Lake, the University of Utah, and all the suburbs of Salt Lake County. Absolutely stunning.

Also, you will be able to make out all the freeways, including looking at the tiny-looking semi's that climb I-80 out of town.

This trail seemed to be filled with hikers included several ultra marathoners who were using it as a training ground. The trail is mostly dirt with loose rocks and it is run-able but I would advice against running downhill. It is just way too steep. I know I had to "butt-slide" down sections of it and I ate it once and got thrown head first into a pile of bramble.

Again, bring walking sticks, shoes that have some grip and plenty of water. Also there are two ways from the parking lot to the top of the peak. The lesser known trail is definitely easier. I took that one up and you just have one hard climb and the rest of it is mild. The other trail is probably slightly shorter, but it is has no respite whatsoever. The easier trail hugs the gully to the left while the right one hugs the ridge going straight up. They both lead to the same place though.

Enjoy the photos: