Ensign Peak Park, the Foundation’s first project, was dedicated by President Gordon B. Hinckley of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on July 26, 1996. Dedication occurred one-hundred-and-forty-nine years to the day after Brigham Young and eight associates climbed the peak on July 26, 1847, two days after the arrival of the Mormon pioneers in the Salt Lake Valley. The park includes Ensign Peak, the identifying landmark which Brigham Young had seen in vision arriving in the valley, and approximately 66 acres of surrounding open space.

While located only about 1 ½ miles north of Temple Square in Salt Lake City, the park is a delightful natural area with an entry plaza, woods, meadows, trails, view points, rest areas, native wildlife, and a small amphitheater. Many commemorative plaques throughout the park explain the area and the important history of Ensign Peak in the settlement of Salt Lake City and surrounding Territory.

Development of the park was undertaken and completed by the Foundation in cooperation with Salt Lake City Corporation on land owned by the city. All design and development work was executed by the Foundation and was funded from generous private donations.

The Foundation continues to provide and fund the cost of ongoing maintenance and improvements to the park through its direct involvement and through coordination of community efforts including Eagle Scout projects and other group and individual volunteers.

The Ensign Peak Nature Park is visited yearly by thousands, including many youth groups.

Copyright © Mormon Historic Sites Foundation, 2006. All Rights Reserved.