Hiking to the Ferguson Canyon Overlook is just to the south of Big Cottonwood Canyon, and is not apart of the SLC Watershed so dogs are allowed to hike here. It’s a great canyon to hike, especially after work if you are short on time. The canyon is well shaded, and as you make your way to the overlook you get an amazing view of the SLC valley. Ferguson Canyon gets really busy on weekends because both hikers and rock climbers fill the canyon. Plan on hiking here either early in the morning or during the week to have a quieter hike.

I had actually hiked Ferguson Canyon about 3-4 years ago in the middle of summer. All I remember was how HOT it got, even with the stream flowing. I hated the hike and never wanted to go back….but my hiking friends hadn’t done it in a long time so I gave in and was up for giving it another go. This time it wouldn’t be 100F, yet it was still warm-ish out. I was able to get off work early, so we hiked here mid-week around 1-3 pm and it was great because we only saw 2-4 other people on the hike. With cooler temps and less people this hike was a lot more enjoyable this time around.  

Directions

Head south on Wasatch Blvd. Just past Big Cottonwood Canyon & the 7-11, turn left on Prospector Drive. Turn right immediately. Follow the brown signs for Ferguson Canyon. Park at the trail, or along the road (if it’s crowded).

Here’s a driving map.

 

Trail Info

Distance: 4 miles RT

Elevation: 1,450 ft

Time: 2-3 hours

Dog friendly? There is a sign at the entrance that says dogs must be leashed, but most people don’t. Safest bet is to keep the dogs on leash until the water then, then they can be off leash.

Kid friendly? Yes, but maybe only the first mile

Fees/Permits? None

Trailhead – lots of signs.

The trail starts from a neighborhood so parking can be hard to find, especially on weekends. You may need to park at the overflow lot. There are “no parking” signs along the roads.

 Pass the water tank on your right.

 Past the water tank you’ll have a nice view of Ferguson Canyon, where you’ll be hiking up.

At the first trail split, stay right. Going left follows the BST and dogs are not allowed since it leads you into the watershed.

Hike past the Wilderness sign.

 There are several natural springs year-round along the trail. Perfect for the pups!

 Mac checks out the climbing routes on the right side of the trail.

 Hike under the tree arch! Charlie and Bear pose for the camera.

 Pass by another natural spring, which is more of a tiny waterfall.

Eventually the trail seems like it will end, but actually turns left (NW) up to a few switchbacks.

 Charlie leads the way up the switchbacks.

 Another great view towards the top of Ferguson Canyon.

 It was sooo warm this November (2017)! I was hiking in a tank top the whole time. It had to have been around 65-70F! Happy to be in the sun.

 Stopping at the rocky overlook – SLC is below me!

Sunset on the way down.

May 2019

 This time the trail was SO green!

 Charlie and his bud Max.

What a great day to be outside!

 

Trail Map

My track via Gaia GPS – the best tracking app! Get your app here for a discount.

 

Nearby Hike

Heugh’s Canyon Waterfall

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