Big Mountain - Big Mountain Pass Hikes

Start where the early pioneers saw the first glimpse of the Salt Lake Valley. From your vehicle or handcart company, hike north or south of Big Mountain Pass for quick trips to peaks with great views. This is the Great Western Trail, so you can continue beyond both peaks in either direction if you have more time.

For Big Mountain, cross the road and start up the trail gaining elevation quickly. The first half mile is a majority of the elevation gain for this trip. Soon you top out on ridges, working across much easier terrain to the base of Big Mountain. About half this route is shaded so start early if hiking up in summer. The trail skirts below the summit around 100 feet or so. Leave the trail wherever it looks good or hike the trail to the ridge and work back. The summit is completely bald so views are all around.

Distance: 2 miles for north peak, 1 mile for south peak
Elevation Gain: 1,032 and 384 feet
Summit Elevation: 8,472 and 7,824 feet
Kid difficulty rating: Moderate/Easy
Access: Paved

Big Mountain & Big Mountain South

From I-80 in Parleys Canyon, take the East Canyon Exit 134 (Highway 65) north 8 miles to Big Mountain Pass. Park in the large dirt lot at this historic pass.

For Big Mountain South, take the higher trail out of the south end of the parking lot. This trail should quickly be climbing uphill to let you know you are on the right one. Once on top of the first hill, a short flat traverse with some views, then a final quick climb to the top. The trail basically goes to the top but the official summit is through the trees a bit. Views exist where the trail tops out where the map shows Airway Beacon (now gone). You can also continue on hiking to Bald Mountain, a few miles beyond.