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Jack's Mountain

Salt Lake City · Updated
Distance
2.6 mi
Elevation Gain
1,325 ft
Route
Loop
Leash laws
On-leash

In 1995, a family grieving the loss of their 21-month-old boy, Jack Edwards, climbed a prominent peak in the foothills of Salt Lake City, where they spread their boy’s ashes. Their son had died from leukemia.

In the spot where the family spread Jack’s ashes, they left a mailbox monument with a letter encouraging others to write a little note. Over the years, people all over the world filled that mailbox with thousands of journal entries of grief and triumph, and the peak became known as Jack’s Mountain. In early 2022, the memorial and journal entries mysteriously disappeared, but the monument has since been replaced.

With over 1,300 feet of elevation gain in just over 1.5 miles, this trail is an excellent workout for humans and dogs. Due to its steepness, hiking poles are recommended. In addition to the memorial, you’ll see fantastic views of Salt Lake Valley at the top.

Getting there

Head east on 2100 S. The road eventually becomes Hyland Hills Road. Turn left on Lakeline Drive and drive to the end of the road. Park along the street before reaching the cul de sac.

Conditions

Now

58°
High: 67° Low: 57°

Mon

61°/43°

Tue

58°/41°

Wed

72°/46°

Thu

56°/41°

US Air Quality Index (AQI)

45 AQI

Route

What you'll see

The trailhead.
The trail is nice and wide at the beginning.
Take the trail to the right that ascends to the graffitied "H" rock.
The trail passes "H" rock.
The trail can feel unrelentingly steep so make sure you stop for snow breaks in the winter!
The cell tower marks a false summit. The real summit is the next peak in the background.
The final ascent. It's harder than it looks!
The mailbox at the summit.
At the top! Notice Jack's mailbox to the left perched up on the rocks.
After returning to the cell tower on the way down, you can take the trail that stays left of the ridge to form a loop back to the trailhead.