Sometimes, the most incredible experiences require the most effort. Utah’s fourth-highest peak in prominence, Deseret Peak is a grueling climb, but the views are absolutely incredible. If you’re up for an adventure, lace up your hiking boots, pack some water and a few snacks, and let’s go!

Deseret Peak is located in the Stansbury Mountains, on the edge of the West Desert. It stands at an elevation of 11,035 feet, but is the fourth-tallest peak in prominence in Utah, at 5,812 feet.
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There are two trails to the top: South Willow Creek, and Pocketts Fork-Dry Lake Fork. The former is the shorter and more popular route.
JS Allen/Alltrails
To reach the South Willow Creek trailhead, take I-80 west from Salt Lake City to the Grantsville exit. Proceed to the town of Grantsville, then take the Wasatch National Forest Road, and follow the signs to South Willow Canyon.
The hike is 7.4 miles, out and back, and you'll want to be well-prepared. Make sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water along. The trails starts in a shady forest...
Steven Strate/Alltrails
...crosses a small stream...
JS Allen/Alltrails
...and makes its way up several switchbacks to a ridge.
Steven Strate/Alltrails
This trail is quite strenuous, and you're climbing at a steady pace early on. By the time you reach the ridge, you'll have already gained more than 2,600 feet in elevation - in just under 3 miles.
Steven Strate/Alltrails

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The stunning scenery helps take your mind of your burning thighs, though...and you can always stop to take some photos while catching your breath.
JS Allen/Alltrails
Keep going up, up, up...
Steven Strate/Alltrails
...it's less than a mile to the top from here, but it's rocky, and you'll have full sun exposure.
Steven Strate/Alltrails
As you near the top of the summit, you'll understand what all the fuss is about.
JS Allen/Alltrails
The views from the peak are jaw-dropping. You can see for miles and miles, and on a clear day you can catch a glimpse of The Great Salt Lake in the distance.
Amy Madsen/Alltrails
Soak in the scenery, sign the climber's log, and take plenty of pictures before heading back down the way you came.
Amy Madsen/Alltrails

Have you hiked Deseret Peak? Tell our readers about your experience in the comments, and share your photos!

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Deseret Peak Trail, Dugway, UT 84022, USA