Like any good BA, I've done my research before asking generic questions... Coming intown for a conference Oct 4-9 and skipping to Denver for GABF. Getting in late the 4th, but plan on spending the 5th either running up mountains or other national parks. A friend suggested driving down to Arches or Canyonlands, but it looks to be 3 hours and I have pretty until the 5th at 2pm until I have to be "back at work". Any local suggestions around SLC for any trails or "must sees" in the area within driving distance? About the beer, research shows the best place to buy/drink beers is the breweries. I've had a lot of UINTA and EPIC, but are there any new breweries that are doing things different and up-and-coming (sours, barrel aging etc). Any suggestions appreciated!
I've never done it, but I believe Mt. Timpanogos can be climbed in a day, about an hour from SLC. http://climb-utah.com/WM/timp.htm Hit up Squatters, best brewery in Utah. 5th Element or 529 may be out at the brewery. Awesome food and beer.
I did Timp once, and it was an awesome hike, but it's pretty damn big. It was around 16 miles roundtrip with 4000 ft of gain. But, it's spectacular. It's just south of SLC, and maybe a 45 min drive, depending on where you start. Closer by, Mill Creek Canyon is very nice, and is good for shorter hikes. Hell, City Creek Canyon is really cool, and the trail from there to Dry Creek is really cool if you're into mtn biking. Desert Edge always worked for me after a long ride or hike. And La Puente has killer smothered burritos.
If you only have one morning to hike, don't spend the time driving out of Salt Lake County. Plenty of great hikes in Big Cottonwood and Little Cottonwood Canyons. I can give you some more specific recommendations--based on your "level", and what time you plan to get up in the morning Mount Olympus is a cool trail, too; and the trailhead is right on the edge of the city.
