“Who was Lucy May Van Cott?” I ask you to ponder as we gaze upon Mount Van Cott. This mountain, overlooking the University of Utah, isn’t just a scenic backdrop. It’s a landmark named in honor of a remarkable woman.
Mount Van Cott stands at 6,351 feet. It offers stunning views of the Salt Lake Valley. Hikers and mountain bikers often visit its trails. Many trails branch off the Bonneville Shoreline Trail. The mountain got its name from Lucy May Van Cott. She was the first dean of women at the University of Utah. She served in that role from 1907 to 1931. Lucy was the daughter of John Van Cott.
The position of dean of women was common in universities. It lasted from the late 1800s to the 1960s. The dean handled student affairs for female students. The position evolved to dean of students. This broadened service to all students.
Hiking to the summit of Mount Van Cott can be moderately difficult. The terrain can be unforgiving. Trails are not always marked. However, trails are generally in good condition. The easiest access is often from the west side.
From the summit, you can see the entire Salt Lake Valley. Views stretch from North Salt Lake to Point of the Mountain and Draper. Antelope Island is visible to the north and west. The Oquirrh mountain range is also clearly seen. Portions of the Wasatch Range can be seen to the south and east. Mount Wire is a prominent neighbor.
The hike is about three miles round trip. The climb is steep. It is best to avoid it in the summer heat. Spring and fall are ideal. Early mornings or evenings are also good in summer.
The trailhead is near the Red Butte Amphitheater. It’s on the southeast corner of the university. Follow Foothill Drive north to Wakara Way to get there. Go east on Wakara Way about half a mile to Chepeta Way. Turn left on Chepeta Way. Continue past the Red Butte Amphitheater. The road turns to dirt. It ends in a parking lot at the trailhead.
Walk up the paved road past the gate from the trailhead. Go left after about half a mile. Take the well-used social trail. The trail climbs steeply for 1.2 miles to the summit. Several trails merge just before the summit.
The summit itself is a gentle bump along the ridgeline. Views of the Salt Lake Valley are expansive. Antelope Island and the Oquirrh Mountains are visible to the east.
For a loop hike, take any social trail down from the summit. The most used trail descends to the southwest. It leads directly back to the trailhead.
So, as you stand here, remember Lucy May Van Cott. Remember her dedication to students. Mount Van Cott is more than just a mountain. It’s a tribute to a pioneer in education. It’s a challenge and a reward all in one climb. It is easily reached and with phenomenal views.