Quick Facts:

Location: Near Salt Lake City, Utah 

Coordinates: 40.79147694514296, -111.86295426257354

Length: 4 Miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 1,000 Feet

Dog Friendly: Yes

Introduction:

Avenue Twin Peaks, located in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest near Salt Lake City, Utah, offers hikers a rewarding experience with stunning views of the Salt Lake Valley and the surrounding Wasatch Mountains. This trail, which is less crowded than some of the more popular hikes in the area, provides a perfect escape into nature with the added bonus of reaching two picturesque summits. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, hiking Avenue Twin Peaks is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the Wasatch Front.

How to Get There:

To reach the Avenue Twin Peaks trailhead, start in downtown Salt Lake City and head east on 11th Avenue. Continue on 11th Avenue as it winds through residential areas and transitions into Bonneville Boulevard. Follow Bonneville Boulevard until you reach the trailhead parking area near the entrance to City Creek Canyon. The trailhead is easily accessible from the city, making it a convenient option for a quick hike.

Parking Information:

Parking for Avenue Twin Peaks is available at the small lot near the entrance to City Creek Canyon. This lot can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so it’s best to arrive early to secure a spot. If the parking lot is full, additional parking may be available along Bonneville Boulevard, but be mindful of any parking restrictions or signs to avoid fines. There are no restroom facilities at the trailhead, so come prepared with everything you need for the hike.

Description of the Landscape:

The trail to Avenue Twin Peaks offers a diverse landscape, beginning in a shaded canyon and gradually opening up to expansive views of the surrounding mountains and the Salt Lake Valley. The hike starts with a steady ascent through scrub oak, maples, and various wildflowers, especially vibrant in the spring and early summer. As you climb higher, the trees begin to thin out, revealing rocky outcrops and grassy slopes. The trail follows a ridgeline that provides panoramic views in all directions, with the twin summits of Avenue Twin Peaks offering the best vantage points. From the peaks, you can enjoy stunning views of downtown Salt Lake City, the Great Salt Lake, and the distant peaks of the Oquirrh and Wasatch Mountains.

Trail Difficulty and Length:

The Avenue Twin Peaks trail is considered moderate to strenuous, covering approximately 4 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 1,600 feet. The trail is well-defined but can be steep in sections, particularly as you approach the summits. The ridgeline portion of the hike is exposed, so be prepared for sun exposure and varying weather conditions. The hike typically takes 3 to 4 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the summits.

Dog-Friendly Information:

Avenue Twin Peaks is a dog-friendly trail, making it a great option for hikers who want to bring their canine companions along. Dogs should be kept on a leash, as the trail is narrow in places and there are steep drop-offs along the ridgeline. Be sure to bring plenty of water for both you and your dog, as there are no water sources along the trail. Additionally, always clean up after your pet to help keep the trail clean and enjoyable for everyone.

Local Regulations:

When hiking Avenue Twin Peaks, it’s important to follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the natural environment. This includes packing out all trash, staying on the designated trail to prevent erosion, and respecting the local wildlife. Since the trail passes through Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, be sure to check for any specific regulations or trail closures before your visit. The trail can be popular with locals, so practicing good trail etiquette, such as yielding to other hikers and keeping noise levels down, is appreciated.

Other Trails Nearby:

If you’re looking to explore more of the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, there are several other excellent trails nearby. The City Creek Canyon trail offers a scenic and relatively easy hike along a creek, with plenty of shade and opportunities to spot wildlife. For a more challenging hike, consider the Mount Wire trail, which provides stunning views of the valley and the chance to see the historic “Living Room” rock formations. The Bonneville Shoreline Trail, which runs parallel to the foothills, is also a popular option for hiking, trail running, and mountain biking.

Non-Hiking Attractions Nearby:

For those interested in exploring more of the area beyond hiking, Salt Lake City offers a variety of attractions. The Utah State Capitol, located just a short drive from the trailhead, offers beautiful architecture and panoramic views of the city. The nearby Red Butte Garden and Arboretum provides a peaceful escape with beautifully maintained gardens and walking paths. For history buffs, the Natural History Museum of Utah offers fascinating exhibits on the region’s geology, paleontology, and Native American history. Additionally, the downtown area is home to numerous restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions, making it a great place to explore after your hike.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to hike Avenue Twin Peaks is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when temperatures are cooler and the trail is at its most enjoyable. In the spring, the trail is lush and green, with wildflowers in bloom and the chance to see wildlife emerging from winter. Fall offers a different kind of beauty, with the leaves of the maples and oaks turning brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Summer can be hot, especially on the exposed sections of the trail, so it’s best to hike early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the heat. Winter is also a great time to visit, but the trail may be covered in snow and ice, so be prepared for winter hiking conditions.