“Please take a moment to say hello to Jackie Jack and write a little note.” That’s the invitation found at Jack’s Mailbox. This isn’t just any mailbox. It’s a memorial to a young boy named Jack Edwards. He died of leukemia in 1995 at a very young age.
Jack’s parents scattered his ashes on this peak above Salt Lake City. They later placed a memorial here. Two mailboxes mark the site. Inside, notebooks await your entry. The first note is a letter from Jack’s mother.
Jack’s Mailbox is more than a hike. It’s a journey of reflection. The trailhead isn’t clearly marked. It’s at the end of a neighborhood street. You’ll find a few street parking spots.
The hike itself is short. It is very steep. Incredible views of the valley reward you quickly. Each peak reached brings a sense of accomplishment. Another peak always seems taller. The ground is dusty and the wind whips around you. Loose rocks make footing unsure.
Upon reaching Jack’s Mountain summit, many feel emotional. Weathered ceramic Buddhas adorn the area. Prayer beads and two mailboxes sit between sandstone slabs. The mailboxes overflow with scraps of paper and leather-bound journals. Binoculars are also available.
You can flip through the pages. Yellow paper is stapled down the middle. Each page has a different author. The memorial hosts letters to many loved ones. These are in addition to notes left for Jack. Jack’s Mailbox has become a space for reflection. People come here while dealing with loss and grief.
Climbing Jack’s Mountain isn’t a typical hike. It is an experience. It gives you another motivation. You can sit with a journal in your lap. You can write a letter to Jack. You might find the intended recipient is yourself.
The hike to Jack’s Mailbox is a beautiful celebration of life. You are encouraged to read the journals. Then write your own note or story. Jack’s mother originally placed the journals here. She wanted to tell Jack’s story. The mailboxes have become a collection of notes. Hikers from all over the world have contributed.
The path curves northwest from the trailhead. It goes to a prominent divide. Take a right at this divide. This begins your climb up Jack’s Mountain Trail. The trail merges with another path about 1.3 km in. This makes the final push to Jack’s Peak. You’ll find yourself at the top half a mile later.
Take time to appreciate the incredible views. Leave a note. Then head back. Jack’s Mountain isn’t just a place. It’s a feeling. It’s a memory. It’s a connection to something bigger than ourselves. Remember to bring a pen. You will want to leave your own mark.