 "Photo: Jessica Dunn")
A typical living room usually consists of a few couches, a television and maybe a coffee table. However, the "Living Room" above the U campus is a little different. The couches are made of flat, smooth, orange-yellow rock and you probably won't find a remote hiding in their cushions. There isn't a television, either. Instead, you get a panoramic high-definition view of the Salt Lake valley that rivals Discovery Channel quality.
The "Living Room" is a man-made arrangement of rocks that was created to look like chairs and couches. It is a well known hike in the foothills behind the U. The trail cuts off the Bonneville Shoreline Trail and up George's Hollow directly behind Research Park. The hike only takes about 40 minutes and the final destination is worth an even longer stay. You'll want time to take in the view, rest, relax and watch the sunset.
The "Living Room" trail is unmarked but well worn, so it shouldn't be too difficult to find. Start at the Bonneville Shoreline Trail entrance south of Tabby Lane on Huntsman Way (in Research Park, south of the Residence Halls). There is a sign on the east side of the road. Follow the trail through the trees, across a small stream and up to the main shoreline trail. You'll know when you're there when the trail opens up and gets wider.
Cross the wide trail and head east up a small gravel-covered trail. It will lead you to the main path, which is surrounded by oak scrub and other small trees and bushes. The remainder of the trail is pretty easy to follow -- just don't veer off onto any smaller side trails or the mountain lions and wandering U professors might protest.
After you come to your first view of Salt Lake City, continue following the trail along the ridge until it comes to a "Y." Go left. After crossing the remnants of a rockslide and passing walls of smooth, orange rock, you will arrive at the community "Living Room." Pick a seat and enjoy the view. You can see the entire U campus and everything from the Great Salt Lake to the point of the mountain.
Campus Recreation is offering a fitness class for the summer called "Take a Hike." The class will explore the hills behind the U and will hike the "Living Room," the "U," the "Tanks" and the "Pipeline," to name a few.
The class will be held on Fridays from 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., June 8 to July 27. The cost is $25. For more information or to register, go to the Field House or www.utah.edu/campusrec and click on fitness program.
