Quick Facts:

Location: Foothills near Salt Lake City, Utah

Coordinates: 40.75939444276732, -111.82128726299992

Length: 4.5 Miles

Difficulty: Hard

Elevation Gain: 2,100 Feet

Dog Friendly: Yes

Introduction:

The Big Beacon (Mount Wire) Trail, located in the Foothills Natural Area near Salt Lake City, Utah, is a challenging but rewarding hike that offers stunning panoramic views of the Salt Lake Valley, the Great Salt Lake, and the surrounding mountains. This trail leads to the summit of Mount Wire, also known as Big Beacon, where you’ll find the remnants of an old beacon tower. Whether you’re an experienced hiker looking for a new challenge or someone eager to explore the foothills, the hike to Big Beacon is a must-do adventure for anyone in the Salt Lake City area.

How to Get There:

The Big Beacon Trail is conveniently located just minutes from downtown Salt Lake City. To reach the trailhead, head towards the University of Utah. From downtown, take 400 South east until it turns into 500 South. Continue on 500 South until you reach the intersection with Wakara Way, where you’ll turn left. Follow Wakara Way as it curves around the University of Utah campus, and then turn right onto Colorow Road. The trailhead is located near the Natural History Museum of Utah and the Red Butte Garden, at the end of Colorow Road. The drive from downtown Salt Lake City takes about 10 to 15 minutes, making this hike an easy and accessible option for a quick outdoor escape.

Parking Information:

Parking for the Big Beacon Trail is available along Colorow Road, near the trailhead. The parking is free, but spaces can be limited, especially on weekends and during peak hiking times. If the parking area is full, additional parking may be available near the Natural History Museum of Utah or the Red Butte Garden, but be sure to check for any posted restrictions. There are no restrooms or other facilities at the trailhead, so plan accordingly before starting your hike.

Description of the Landscape:

The hike to Big Beacon (Mount Wire) takes you through the rugged and beautiful landscape of the Salt Lake City foothills. The trail begins with a steady climb up a series of switchbacks that lead through open meadows and scrub oak, offering immediate views of the city below and the Wasatch Mountains in the distance. As you ascend, the trail becomes steeper and more challenging, with rocky sections that require careful footing.

The landscape is characterized by the dry, high-desert vegetation typical of the area, including sagebrush, wildflowers, and scattered juniper trees. In the spring and early summer, the meadows are often dotted with colorful wildflowers, adding to the scenic beauty of the hike. As you approach the summit, the trail opens up to reveal expansive views of the Salt Lake Valley, the Great Salt Lake, and the Oquirrh Mountains to the west.

At the summit of Mount Wire, you’ll find the remnants of an old beacon tower, a relic from the early days of aviation when beacons were used to guide planes through the mountain passes. The summit offers 360-degree views, making it a perfect spot to rest, take photos, and enjoy the stunning scenery. On clear days, you can see for miles in every direction, making the effort to reach the top well worth it.

Trail Difficulty and Length:

The hike to Big Beacon (Mount Wire) is considered challenging, making it suitable for experienced hikers or those looking for a more strenuous workout. The round trip is approximately 4.5 miles, with an elevation gain of about 2,200 feet. The trail is well-marked but includes steep and rocky sections that require good footwear and a reasonable level of fitness. Most hikers can complete the round trip in 3 to 4 hours, depending on their pace and how long they spend at the summit. The combination of distance, elevation gain, and breathtaking views makes this hike a rewarding experience for those who are up for the challenge.

Dog-Friendly Information:

Big Beacon Trail is dog-friendly, so you can bring your canine companion along for the hike. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times to ensure their safety and the safety of other hikers and local wildlife. The trail’s steep and rocky sections can be challenging for dogs, so be sure to bring plenty of water and take breaks as needed. The trail is exposed, so it’s important to be mindful of the heat, especially during the summer months. Always clean up after your dog to keep the trail clean and enjoyable for everyone.

Local Regulations:

When hiking Big Beacon (Mount Wire) Trail, it’s important to follow local regulations to help preserve the natural environment and ensure a safe experience for all visitors. Stay on designated trails to minimize your impact on the fragile foothill ecosystem, and avoid disturbing the local wildlife. As with all outdoor areas, practice “Leave No Trace” principles by carrying out all trash, respecting other hikers, and leaving the landscape as you found it. The trail can be busy, especially during peak times, so be courteous and share the trail with others.

Other Trails Nearby:

If you’re interested in exploring more of the Foothills Natural Area after hiking Big Beacon, there are several other trails nearby that offer different experiences. The Red Butte Canyon Trail is a less strenuous hike that takes you through a beautiful canyon with opportunities for wildlife viewing. The Bonneville Shoreline Trail is a popular, longer trail that runs parallel to the city and offers various access points for shorter or extended hikes. For a more challenging climb, the Mount Olympus Trail provides a strenuous hike with stunning summit views of the Salt Lake Valley.

Non-Hiking Attractions Nearby:

In addition to hiking, the area around the Big Beacon Trail and Salt Lake City offers a variety of attractions for visitors. The nearby Natural History Museum of Utah is a must-visit, with fascinating exhibits on Utah’s natural history, geology, and native cultures. The Red Butte Garden offers beautiful botanical gardens and walking paths, perfect for a leisurely afternoon. For those interested in history and culture, Temple Square and the Utah State Capitol in downtown Salt Lake City offer stunning architecture and rich historical insights.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to hike Big Beacon (Mount Wire) Trail is during the spring and fall when temperatures are mild and the trail is at its most beautiful. Springtime brings blooming wildflowers and lush green vegetation, while fall offers cooler temperatures and the chance to see the changing colors of the leaves. Summer hikes are also popular, but be prepared for the heat and plan to go early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the midday sun. Winter hikes are possible but may involve navigating snow and icy conditions, especially on the steeper sections of the trail.