The Ben Lomond Mountain in Utah Guide: Hikes & Trails

Ben Lomond Mountain in Utah is part of the beautiful Wasatch Range and is easy to spot with its iconic pyramid-like shape. Some even say Ben Lomond inspired the famous Paramount Pictures logo, though that’s more of a local legend. Still, it’s kind of a fun bit of folklore. Just north of Ogden and situated between Ogden and Brigham City, it’s a favorite for both locals and visitors, thanks to its trails and amazing views of the Great Salt Lake and surrounding valleys. 

If you looking for other outdoor adventures and things to do in Utah, we have a variety of resources to help you find what you’re looking for. We’ve written blog posts about activities including the best hot springs in Utah, the best hikes in Provo, the best backpacking trails in Utah, and more. We can also help you find all of the outdoor gear you need.

Ben Lomond Peak in Utah 

Ben Lomond Peak is one of those places that feels rugged but still accessible. Standing at 9,712 feet, it offers breathtaking views, but it’s not so high that it feels impossible to reach. The peak is a much-loved spot for hikers and mountain bikers, and it’s often a go-to for anyone in northern Utah looking for a solid day adventure. 

Ben Lomond Mountain got its name from early Scottish settlers who thought it resembled the famous Ben Lomond in Scotland, a similarly shaped peak near Loch Lomond. It’s a neat bit of history that most people don’t know about. 

Before the settlers arrived, the Shoshone tribe called this area home. The Shoshone lived throughout the region, using the valleys and mountains around Ogden for hunting, gathering, and seasonal migration. Ben Lomond and the surrounding mountains weren’t just practical; they held a great amount of spiritual significance for the tribe. 

How to Get to the Trailhead 

The Ben Lomond Trail is a must-do for anyone who loves exploring Utah’s mountains. The trailhead, located at the North Ogden Divide—also known as North Ogden Pass—starts with a scenic drive. From Ogden, take the 12th Street exit and head east toward the mountains. At 400 East on Washington, turn left and drive north for about 5 miles until the road narrows and curves slightly east. After passing through a residential area, turn right at 3100 North and continue driving 4 miles up the canyon. You’ll find a parking area at the highest point of North Ogden Canyon, with a restroom for a quick pit stop before you hit the trail.

The hike itself is about 15-16 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of around 3,500 feet. It’s definitely a workout, but there aren’t any overly technical sections, so it’s more about endurance than anything else. The first part of the trail leads you through meadows filled with wildflowers in the spring and early summer, and as you climb, you’ll follow a ridgeline with incredible views of the Ogden Valley. The last stretch is where the incline gets real, but trust me, the summit views make it all worth it. The trail begins just across the road from the parking area, 

Hikes Near Ben Lomond Mountain in Utah 

In addition to the Ben Lomond Trail, there are several other great hikes in the area that are definitely worth your time: 

• Lewis Peak Trail 

The Lewis Peak Trail, starting in the beautiful town of Eden, UT, offers a similar experience to Ben Lomond but with a shorter distance of about 10 miles round trip. To find the trailhead, head toward North Fork Park, just a few miles from Eden’s center, where you’ll start your climb. Though Lewis Peak is shorter, the views are just as magical. With around 2,800 feet of elevation gain, it’s still a solid workout but doesn’t require the full-day commitment that Ben Lomond does. 

One of the best parts of this trail is how peaceful it is. Lewis Peak tends to be less crowded than Ben Lomond, so you’re likely to have the trail to yourself, especially on weekdays. The hike starts with switchbacks through shaded forest areas, gradually opening up to meadows that are especially vibrant in early summer. Keep an eye out for wildlife. It’s fairly common to see deer or wild turkeys along the way. 

At the summit, you’ll be treated to 360-degree views that rival those from Ben Lomond. On a clear day, you can see Pineview Reservoir to the east and the Wasatch Range in the distance. During the cooler months, snow can cover the trail, transforming it into a peaceful winter hike for those with the right gear who can handle the cold. 

• Pineview Trail 

The Pineview Trail is a great option if you want something a little less intense. It’s a shorter, more relaxed hike around Pineview Reservoir, offering completely different scenery. This trail is about 6.2 miles round trip, perfect if you’re looking for a more casual hike that still offers great views. The relatively flat terrain makes it an awesome trail for families, beginners, or anyone looking for some movement without too much hard work. The Pineview Trail has a very relaxing and chill vibe about it. As you walk, the path hugs the edge of Pineview Reservoir, offering constant views of the water. The surrounding mountains give the trail a dramatic feel without it being a super tough hike. 

• North Ogden Divide (Skyline Trail) 

If you’re looking for more ridgeline hiking after Ben Lomond, the Skyline Trail is another fantastic option. Stretching roughly 23-27 miles from end to end, this trail offers some of the most dramatic views in the area. The nice thing is that you don’t have to commit to the entire trail. Most hikers choose to tackle sections of the trail, such as the portion between North Ogden Divide and Ben Lomond, for a shorter experience. 

• North Fork Park Trails 

North Fork Park is located on the east side of Ben Lomond and is considered a great starting point for hikers. The trailhead begins at the southern end of Weber County’s North Fork Park, near the horse corrals. The trail starts on county property and soon transitions to National Forest land. It’s well-marked on maps and signed as the Ben Lomond Trail, making it easy to find your way at the start. 

At mile 1.6, you’ll reach a beautiful waterfall fed by Cold Spring, a perfect spot to stop and take pics before moving on. The trail is 7.6 miles to the summit of Ben Lomond, with an almost 4,000-foot elevation gain. For the most part, the path is wide and in great shape, though it does become overgrown with brush in sections. Just before Bailey Cabin Spring, the Ben Lomond Trail connects with the Cutler Spring Trail. If you keep going, you’ll come across some great camping spots with unique views of both Ben Lomond and Willard Peak—perfect if you want to extend your day of adventure.

• Cutler Basin 

The Cutler Basin Trail is one of the tougher routes to reach the summit of Ben Lomond. It’s definitely a bit more off the beaten path compared to the more popular North Ogden Divide route. If you’re up for a challenge, though, it’s worth it for sure! The trailhead is located in the North Fork area, a quieter spot on the eastern side of the mountain. This hike is about 7 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of nearly 3,500 feet, so be ready to sweat. 

Cutler Basin connects with the Ben Lomond Trail near the summit, offering a different, more strenuous way to the top than the North Ogden Divide route. The last push from the basin to the ridgeline is intense but flattens out a bit before you reach the top. This climb isn’t for the faint of heart, so make sure you’re in hiking shape before hitting the trail.

Best Time of Year To Go 

Hiking 

The best time to hit up Ben Lomond Mountain for hiking is late spring through early fall, which is typical for most trails in Utah. From May to October, the weather’s usually just right, and the trails are clear of snow, making it possible to actually reach the summit. Early summer is also nice because you’ll catch all the wildflowers blooming along the lower parts of the trail. The temps are comfortable during these months, and with longer days, you’ll have plenty of time to take on the hike without feeling rushed. 

Mountain Biking 

For mountain bikers, late summer and early fall are best. By then, the trails have dried out, so you won’t have to deal with as much mud. Plus, September and October bring cooler temperatures, which are perfect for a ride. The fall colors also start popping around this time, so the views along the ridgeline are spectacular. Fewer people will be on the trails too, so you can ride with less congestion and a bit more freedom.

Winter Activities 

If you’re the type of person who loves winter activities, Ben Lomond turns into a snow-covered playground during winter and early spring. Snowshoeing and backcountry skiing are popular when the snow rolls in, but this is definitely for the more prepared crowd. Snow and ice can make the trail tough, so you need to be ready with the proper gear and check avalanche conditions. 

Other Activities to Do There 

Ben Lomond Mountain isn’t just for hikers and bikers—it’s also a great spot for several other outdoor activities. If you’re into rock climbing, you’ll find some excellent spots around the mountain’s base and nearby cliffs. The granite formations offer a nice mix of routes for climbers of all different skill levels. 

When the snow falls, skiing becomes a big draw. While it’s certainly not a traditional ski resort, backcountry skiing is really popular here. The mountain’s wide, open slopes and natural bowls offer a real sense of freedom for those who love carving fresh tracks in powder. Snowshoeing is another way to see Ben Lomond in the winter. It’s a slower-paced alternative to skiing but still lets you enjoy the beauty of the mountain while getting some movement. You can take some of the same trails you’d hike in the summer, but they become a completely different adventure in the winter. 

The Ben Lomond Mountain in Utah Guide Conclusion 

Ben Lomond Mountain in Utah has a little bit of everything—incredible views, awesome trails, and year-round adventures. From hiking and biking in the summer to skiing and snowshoeing in the winter, people love visiting this area for good reason. Whatever kind of adventure you’re planning, General Army Navy Outdoor should be your go-to stop. Swing by our Taylorsville store or visit us online to grab all the gear you need and make your next trip the best one yet!