The Salt Lake Valley Scenic overlook starts on the Desolation trail in Millcreek Canyon near Salt Lake City, Utah and offers hikers a wide variety of destinations to stop at along the trail, ultimately leading to Lake Desolation. The Salt Lake Valley Scenic Overlook is the first stop along the trail and the most visited of the stops along the Desolation Trail. The Salt Lake Valley Scenic overlook shows hikers the beauty of the Salt Lake Valley from high above the skyscrapers in Downtown Salt Lake City.

The hike to the Salt Lake Valley Scenic Overlook is about 2 miles one way, the trail is mostly uphill and switchbacks dominate the upper part of the trail. From the Salt Lake Valley Scenic overlook, hikers are able to continue on to Lake Desolation although it is another 15 miles to the lake. 

The Salt Lake Valley Scenic overlook portion of the trail is intermediate in difficulty and the scenic overlook itself is not for the faint of heart, with many sharp, jagged rocks and sheer cliffs surrounding the overlook. Whether you are afraid of heights or not, the view is breathtaking and is absolutely worth the challenging hike. 

There are also many picnic and recreation areas at the Desolation trailhead, so if hikers want to make a day of spending time in Millcreek Canyon, there are plenty of options of things to do like swimming in the nearby pool just up the canyon from the trailhead, enjoying Millcreek or using fire pits near the trailhead to spend quality family time, are just a few of the options hikers have. 

There is also a $5 fee to access the canyon that will be charged at the booth as you leave the canyon. The fee covers all in the vehicle and is good for all day access. 

Overall, whether you are a Salt Lake City local or a visitor who loves a good hike, the Desolation trail and Salt Lake Valley Scenic Overlook is a great option to be at one with nature without having to go too far out of the city.