Mount Olympus Utah
Mount Olympus is a 9,026 feet peak on the east side of the Salt Lake Valley. Views from the summit will drop your jaw, and fill up your Instagram feed. The top of the mountain is a federally protected wilderness area prettier than your backyard (sorry), and worth every tax-payer dollar.
The trail is wide and easy to follow, but darn steep. It gains some 4,100 feet over the course of 3.75 miles. Never fear, this is a great hike and virtually anyone can do it if they just take it slow and steady--turtle mentality for the win. This is a spectacular mountain and it is well worth the effort.
Photo Credit: Jana Herzogova
Trailhead
(40.6527, -111.806)
The trailhead is located on the east side of Wasatch Boulevard. From 4500 south, drive south on Wasatch Boulevard for about 1.6 miles to the parking area. A sign identifies the parking lot as the Mount Olympus Trailhead. (A large rock next to the trailhead is known locally as Pete's Rock and is a popular place for casual rock climbing.) Also a popular place for romantic couples to watch the sunset.
Summit
(40.6566, -111.771)
From the trailhead, follow the obvious trail east up the mountain.
This is a very popular hike during summer and fall, and although a surprising number of people do it during the winter, it can get icy and avalanche danger can be high.
From the summit, return the way you came up. Easy enough?