Last updated: June 28, 2024
Place
Ensign Peak Memorial Garden and Ensign Peak Nature Park
NPS Photo
Quick Facts
Location:
1002 N Ensign Vista Drive, Salt Lake City, Utah 84103
Significance:
Two days after arriving in the valley, Brigham Young and 7 other pioneers climbed this hill to view the valley and begin planning their new city.
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Amenities
1 listed
Trailhead
Two days after arriving in the valley, Brigham Young and 7 other pioneers climbed this hill to view the valley and begin planning their new city. Today the hilltop provides a stunning view straight down State Street, across the city the pioneers planned, to the south end of the Salt Lake Valley. Ensign Peak Memorial Garden trailhead includes plaques that explain the history and significance of the site.
Another overlook is an easy walk about 0.3 mile up the trail at 5,060 feet elevation; an interpretive sign there identifies major landmarks and key buildings across the valley. Continue up the trail to the top of the peak for the best view. The sight is particularly beautiful at dusk as the sun sets and city streets begin to sparkle with lights. Allow at least an hour from the trailhead for a leisurely hike, and carry water. Ensign Peak is 5,414 feet.
Site Information
Location (1002 N Ensign Vista Drive, Salt Lake City, Utah 84103)
Open to the public, no fee. Consider driving to this site – it is one mile north (uphill) of Temple Square and 700 feet higher than the downtown sites.
More Site Information
Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail
Mormon Pioneer Trail: Salt Lake City Itinerary
This site is on the Salt Lake City Itinerary. Each site provides the opportunity to experience and learn about Salt Lake City, a pioneer waystation as well as a destination, and its rich combined history of the Mormon Pioneer, Pony Express, and California national historic trails.