North Capitol Area Routes
— Quick Links —
North Foothills: North Capitol
The Foothills Rangers and trail teams have scouted out and mapped a variety of excursions for your enjoyment.
Links to these routes on AllTrails are provided.
Photo: AllTrails
Hiking: Ensign Peak Loop
This short loop is less traveled than the more direct route up to the top of Ensign Peak. Enjoy views of the valley throughout this hike. For the beginner-intermediate hiker. 1.6 miles with 357 feet of elevation gain.
Photo: AllTrails
Hiking: Lower City Creek Loop
Just steps from the State Capitol, the Lower City Creek Loop offers 2-3 miles of hiking-only, natural surface trails and non-vehicular paved roads. For the beginner hiker. 2 – 3 miles, 410 feet of elevation gain.
Photo: AllTrails
Hiking: Victory Road to Ensign Peak Loop
44 switchbacks lead hikers up to Ensign Peak on this moderate loop, perfect for intermediate hikers and trail runners. 5.4 miles with 928 feet of elevation gain.
Photo: AllTrails
Hiking: Lakeview Trail
This out & back trail is a hidden gem. It offers beautiful views of the valley and Great Salt Lake to the west, interesting rock formations, and a gentle grade. For the beginner hiker. 4 miles with 311 feet of elevation gain.
Photo: AllTrails
Hiking or Biking: North Capitol Grand Tour
This route takes hikers from urban settings to natural areas with great views. This route is for the intermediate hiker. Enjoy views of the City and City Creek Canyon on the east side of the route. Bikers can also complete this loop by substituting the hiking-only Lower City Creek Loop section and riding along Bonneville Blvd.
Trail Routes at a Glance
| Route | Distance | Elevation Gain |
| Ensign Peak Loop | 1.6 miles | 357 feet |
| Lower City Creek Loop | 2 – 3 miles | 410 feet |
| Victory Road to Ensign Peak Loop | 5.4 miles | 928 feet |
| Lakeview Trail | 4 miles | 311 feet |
| North Capitol Grand Tour | 6.9 miles | 1256 feet |
Foothills Open Space Management Areas
A Vision for Sustainable Recreation in the Foothills Natural Area
The Foothills Natural Area consists of approximately 6,000 acres of canyons, open sagebrush grasslands, and scrub-oak woodland bordering the northern and eastern limits of Salt Lake City. The Foothills are a patchwork of open space properties owned by the City, the University of Utah, Utah State Parks, and the US Forest Service. Our vision is to provide a variety of recreational trail and cultural experiences for diverse ages and abilities while managing the Foothills’ environmental resources for future generations.
Read more about the Foothills Plan HERE.
