This week's Utah hike

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This week’s Utah hike

BY STEVE BAKER Clipper Staff Writer

Grandeur Peak Trail: Mill Creek Canyon

Hikers enjoy lunch on top of Grandeur Peak. 80

TRAIL

Grandeur Peak 8,300 ft. 3300 S.

215 3900 S.

P Parking Other Trails

Steve Baker/Davis Clipper

Start 5,720 ft.

d anyon Roa Mill Creek C

P Church Fork picnic area

This is a great hike in spring and fall with the cooler temperatures. It’s a strenuous hike with the elevation gain, but such a beautiful hike to the peak. You should be able to drive to the trailhead at the top of Church Fork picnic area. When I arrived, I found the road closed due to construction and started hiking from the Mill Creek Road. At .25 miles you arrive at the trailhead from the main road. The trail splits quickly, stay right heading uphill. After the split the trail follows the stream in shade. At .8 miles you leave

Difficulty Elevation gain Round-trip miles Hiking time Dogs allowed Trailhead restroom Day-use-fee

Strenuous 2,580 ft. 7.1 miles 5 to 6 hours Yes In picnic area $3

the stream and the trail turns west into scrub oaks and sunshine. The trail makes a series of switchbacks and turns west for the saddle. At 2.7 miles you arrive at the saddle overlooking Parleys Canyon and part of the Salt Lake Valley. Take a moment to catch your breath as the trail becomes more steep to the top. On the peak there is plenty of room to take in the spectacular 360 degree view. Kick back, have lunch and be proud of yourself for conquering Grandeur Peak. It doesn’t get much better, enjoy! Trailhead directions: From Wasatch Blvd., it’s 3.2 miles to the Church Fork turnoff in Mill Creek Canyon. When construction is complete in the picnic area, you should be able to drive to the top and park at the trailhead. Hike questions: [email protected]