At the Huntsman Cancer Institute and the University of Utah, we believe wellness is an essential part of building a strong, connected, and resilient community within the Division of Hematology and Hematologic Malignancies.
Caring for patients with complex blood disorders and cancers is deeply meaningful work, and we recognize the importance of supporting the well-being of our faculty, fellows, advanced practice providers, researchers, staff, and trainees along the way. Throughout the year, members of our division come together to stay active, enjoy the outdoors, and strengthen relationships beyond the workplace.
From hiking Utah’s mountain trails and skiing in the Wasatch to group walks, races, team outings, and seasonal activities, our division embraces opportunities to recharge, connect, and celebrate the incredible environment we call home.
This page highlights some of the many wellness activities our division enjoys together throughout the year.
No Trail Too Tough: The Bloodhound Hikers Are On the Hunt Again!
From desert landscapes to alpine peaks, the Bloodhound Trekkers continue to find new trails, recharge in nature, and strengthen the connections that make every adventure memorable.
Hike 1-Frary Peak, Antelope Island-7.1 mile length, 2,326 ft elevation gain.
The Bloodhound Trekkers are back on the trail! The group launched the summer hiking season with an unforgettable ascent of Frary Peak, bringing together 11 hikers, two adventurous dogs, and one very special feathered companion—McNugget, Jerry’s well-traveled feral chicken.
Under sunny skies and surrounded by blooming wildflowers, sagebrush, and sweeping views of the Great Salt Lake, the team enjoyed a perfect day outdoors. Wildlife sightings added to the adventure, including distant bison, antelope, and a friendly (and non-venomous) gopher snake. The dogs embraced the wilderness, while McNugget proudly completed the journey from the comfort of her backpack carrier.
Despite a challenging climb, the Bloodhound Trekkers worked together to reach the summit and prove they are ready for another season of adventure, camaraderie, and memorable trail experiences. The final sign of a successful expedition? McNugget returned home and laid an egg—officially declaring the hike a success.
Hike 2-The Battle of the Bells-Bells Canyon preservation trailhead-4.8 mile length, 1,515 ft elevation gain.
On a sunny, beautiful day, the team: Mary Lampas, Ming and her husband, three children, Jerry, and Ramiro set out for Hike #2.
The conditions were ideal: crisp mountain air, lush green scenery, and snow-capped peaks in the distance. A rushing creek followed us along parts of the trail, adding energy and sound to an already vibrant landscape.
The highlight of the hike was a stunning waterfall, powerful and surrounded by pristine nature. The group moved together with a mix of conversation, laughter, and shared appreciation for the moment.
It was a simple but unforgettable day outdoors, great company, great scenery, and a perfect reminder of how good it feels to be in nature.
Hike 3-Mount Olympus Trail-6.9 mile length, 4,087 ft elevation gain.
The Bloodhound Trekkers tackled one of Salt Lake City’s most iconic challenges this season with an ambitious climb of Mt. Olympus. A determined group of hikers—Jens, Luis, Mary, Kali, Bron, and teammates—faced steep inclines, rugged terrain, and a demanding ascent that tested both endurance and determination.
After reaching the saddle and taking in breathtaking views of the Wasatch Mountains, the summit crew pushed through the final rocky scramble to the top. For two of the team’s newest Salt Lake City residents, the hike served as a true mountain introduction, pushing them beyond their comfort zones and earning them full membership in the adventurous hiking community.
The descent brought its own challenges, requiring careful navigation of loose rock and steep terrain, including the now-famous “reverse crab technique.” After five and a half hours of climbing, the team returned tired but triumphant, celebrating their accomplishment with a well-earned recovery meal.
Mt. Olympus officially joins the Bloodhound Trekkers’ list of legendary accomplishments.
Hike 4-Silver Flat Lake Trail-4.6 mile length, 1,190 elevation gain
The Bloodhound Trekkers completed their fourth hike of the season with a memorable outing to Silver Flat Lake Trail in American Fork Canyon. A team of 15 hikers and four canine companions—including members from Myeloid, Myeloma, Lymphoma, and BMT teams, along with a dedicated fellow—came together for a beautiful day in the mountains.
The group enjoyed a scenic climb through fragrant pine forests with stunning views of Mount Timpanogos and Box Elder Peak before reaching the emerald waters of Silver Flat Lake. The final stretch along a lively mountain creek provided a highlight of the adventure and a perfect reward for the steady ascent.
Beyond the miles and elevation gain, the hike celebrated teamwork, connection, and the camaraderie that continues to define the Bloodhound Trekkers. Four hikes into the season, the group is building stronger legs, stronger bonds, and plenty of unforgettable memories.
Hike 5-Choose your own-From the Alps to the Utah desert and along the Wasatch Front
The Bloodhound Trekkers continued their summer adventures with a weekend full of independent hikes spanning the Wasatch Front, Zion, and even the German Alps. From local canyon walks to high-altitude summit pushes, team members embraced the outdoors and found plenty of opportunities for adventure and renewal.
In Utah, hikers explored trails including North Canyon, Bell’s Clef, Mt. Raymond, Millcreek Canyon, Church Fork Peak, Bell Canyon, and the Eagle Crags Trail near Zion. Highlights included sweeping summit views, alpine waterfalls, creekside adventures with McNugget the chicken, mountain wildlife, snow fields, and a peaceful Zion hike away from the crowds.
The adventure extended internationally as Emily explored the Bavarian Alps, completing 13.5 miles of the Via Alpina E4 European Long-Distance Trail over two days, including an overnight stay in a mountain hut and the memorable experience of hearing real cuckoo birds in the forest.
Hike 6-Grandure Peak East Trail-6.6 mile length, 2,600 ft elevation gain
The Bloodhound Trekkers enjoyed a beautiful summer morning with a classic ascent of Grandeur Peak. A team of five hikers and two enthusiastic canine companions took advantage of cool breezes and clear skies as they climbed through shady forests, wildflower-filled slopes, and scenic mountain terrain.
As the trail rose above the tree line, the group was rewarded with stunning views of the Salt Lake Valley and surrounding Wasatch peaks. Vibrant wildflowers, fluttering butterflies, and the scent of blooming jasmine added to the memorable experience.
With great company, happy dogs, and breathtaking scenery, the Grandeur Peak hike was another reminder of the joy, connection, and adventure found on the trails.
Hike 7-Hike on your own-Another great time on the trails! Here's what our hikers have been up to
Lone Peak (Alpine Style): John McCarron checked off a longtime goal, summitting Lone Peak alpine style via a trad route. The climb up was incredible and taxing, carrying camping and climbing gear the whole way, and rewarded him with one of the best sunsets he's seen.
Lake Solitude & Albion Meadows by Patrick and mom: A weekend of summer Wasatch beauty: a 3.4-mile hike to Lake Solitude on Saturday, followed by a 3-mile loop around Albion Meadows at Alta on Sunday, showing off the mountains to a visiting mom. Wildlife highlights included a symphony of bird calls on both outings, a golden-mantled ground squirrel at Solitude, and a least chipmunk, a marmot, and a moose at Alta.
Mount Neff (Solo) by Erin, BMT Gobblers hiked Neffs solo. No selfie this time, but the trip still counts. She's hoping to join a group hike soon.
Skyline South Trail to Eyrie Peak —Sunday took Jerry and Isa to Weber County, climbing the Skyline South Trail above Pineview Reservoir. Turkey vultures and a flock of dusky grouse made appearances along the way. Jerry pushed on to Eyrie Peak for 360-degree views taking in Ben Lomond, Mount Ogden, Willard Bay, the Great Salt Lake, and the high Wasatch beyond. Total distance: 14.4 miles for Jerry, about half that for Isa.
Wild Rose Wildflower Loop by Richard, Natalie, Clare, and Mary Rose. The family hiked the 4.2-mile Wild Rose wildflower loop together.
Torghatten & Djurgården . From the distant lands of Scandinavia, Lindsey, Alli, and Hubby summited Torghatten mountain in Brønnøysund, Norway, while I did an 8-mile run through the gardens of Djurgården in Stockholm.
Hike 8-Gobblers Knob via Butler Fork Trail-8 mile length, 3,128 ft elevation gain
The Bloodhound Trekkers experienced another unforgettable adventure in the Wasatch with a scenic summer hike through lush forests, aspen groves, and vibrant alpine meadows. The trail offered breathtaking views at every turn, with wildflowers—including lupines and paintbrush—covering the slopes and butterflies adding to the beauty of the landscape.
A highlight of the journey was spotting a juvenile golden eagle soaring above the ridgelines, providing a memorable wildlife encounter along the way. The team was rewarded at the summit with sweeping views of rugged peaks, deep canyons, and endless blue skies.
It was another spectacular day on the trails, celebrating the beauty of the mountains, the spirit of adventure, and the camaraderie that continues to define the Bloodhound Trekkers.
Hike 9-Primrose Overlook via Horse Flat Trail-3.4 mile length, 826 ft elevation gain
The Bloodhound Trekkers enjoyed another spectacular mountain adventure on the Primrose Overlook Trail. With cool temperatures, crisp mountain air, and clear skies, the group—including canine companions Kaia and Luna—experienced the trail at its seasonal best.
Lush green landscapes, vibrant wildflowers, and several peaceful deer sightings made for a picture-perfect morning in the mountains. As the team climbed higher, they were rewarded with breathtaking views of Mount Timpanogos and the surrounding valleys.
It was another memorable day filled with adventure, camaraderie, and appreciation for the natural beauty of Utah’s mountain landscapes.
Hike 10-Lake Blanche - The Beauty of the Wasatch
Sunday morning, blue skies overhead, the team set out to take on the Lake Blanche Trail.
The route wastes no time: it climbs relentlessly from the very first switchback, tracing a roaring creek that never lets you forget the water carved this whole canyon. The grade eases the mind into a rhythm as it works the legs: up through a stand of aspens, their leaves flickering silver-green in the morning light, then out into meadows thick with wildflowers, a reward for every step of the climb.
And then, Lake Blanche. Tucked beneath the granite faces of Sundial Peak, it's one of those views that stops conversation. To our surprise, the crowds that usually pack this trail were nowhere to be found, and we had the shoreline mostly to ourselves.
Wildlife made the day even better: three moose grazing near the water, and a hefty marmot sunning himself on the rocks, clearly unbothered by his audience.
All in all, a beautiful morning in the mountains, sunshine, solitude, and good company on the trail.
