Photo: Gabrielle Mihoc
Photo: Vic Cardenas
Photo: Gabrielle Mihoc
Big Cottonwood Canyon Trail
★4.7(198 reviews)FreeNature
🕑 2-4 hours👶 Best for ages 3-12. Younger children love splashing in the creek shallows and spotting wildlife, while older kids can try fishing or explore longer trail sections. The easy terrain makes it manageable even for families with preschoolers who tire quickly.🧡 Saved by 100+ families
About
Big Cottonwood Canyon Trail serves as the perfect introduction to Utah's stunning mountain scenery, offering families easy access to gentle creek-side walks, kid-friendly fishing spots, and nature exploration without requiring serious hiking experience. The well-maintained trails and accessible creek areas make it ideal for families wanting outdoor adventure close to Salt Lake City without venturing into backcountry terrain.
Highlights
- ✓Easy creek access for wading and rock skipping
- ✓Beginner-friendly fishing spots along the stream
- ✓Scenic nature walks with minimal elevation gain near the entrance
- ✓Wildlife spotting opportunities including birds, chipmunks, and occasional deer
- ✓Beautiful mountain views and photo opportunities
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive before 9 AM on weekends to secure parking at the trailhead, as this popular canyon fills up quickly during peak season
- 2.Bring water shoes or old sneakers for creek play,the smooth rocks can be slippery and the water is cold even in summer
- 3.Pack a fishing license if your kids want to try fishing (required for ages 12+), and bring simple gear as the creek has rainbow and brown trout
- 4.Look for the flatter, paved sections near the entrance if you have strollers or younger kids,further in, trails become rockier
- 5.Bring layers even on warm days as temperatures drop significantly in the canyon, especially near the water
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings between late spring and early fall (May-September) for the best weather and smallest crowds. Early morning offers cooler temperatures, better wildlife spotting, and peaceful creek access before the canyon gets busy.
What to Know
Parking is free but limited at the canyon entrance. There are no food facilities or restrooms at the trailhead, so plan accordingly. The trails are not fully stroller-accessible beyond the initial paved areas.
Seasonal Notes
Best visited May through October when trails are snow-free and creek levels are safe for kids. Spring brings rushing water from snowmelt (supervise closely), while late summer offers gentler creek flows. Winter access is limited and trails can be icy. Fall colors peak in late September to early October.
Nearby Eats
Stop at Cafe Rio or Chick-fil-A in nearby Cottonwood Heights (about 10 minutes from the canyon entrance) for quick, kid-friendly meals after your outdoor adventure.
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