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These two trails are great for a relaxing hike to get the blood flowing, heart rate elevated, and there is allot of shade to keep you out of the sun. This trail is used by a lot of Mountain Bikers, Horses, and Dog Owners. It is closed to Mountain bikes on odd numbered days. We began this hike on the Upper Big Water Trail. It made its way around the hills of Upper Mill creek through Aspen groves, Pine trees, and flora everywhere. It reminded me of an Oregon forest for how dense the plant life grows here.
At the first trail intersection, we noticed the bugs were veracious, so it was time to get out the OFF bug repellent. After soaking in Deet (Active chemical in OFF) we were off on the trail again. Up winding switchbacks, through more wonderful Aspen Groves, to a little bridge where you start climbing the last 400 feet of the Upper Big Water Trail. Nice switchbacks on this very well maintained trail. Soon we arrive at Dog Lake. It is a small mountain lake used for water shed and irrigation. While sitting on the beach eating a Cliff Bar, I noticed a bird with a red crown land not so far from me. It was a Red Crested Finch, and it did not seem to mind me much either.
So we were off to head down the Big Water Trail, when I noticed a trail sign, and it said Big Water Trail 3 miles, Little Water Trail 1.8 miles. We wanted to trail run, so we opted for the Little Water Trail. Glad we did. It was spectacular. The Aspen Grove that we saw was so serene. Very peaceful on this trail. Not a soul around. If you are looking to get away from it all in a relatively short distance, I recommend these two trails, It does not get too hot, therefore you will not lose a lot of water due to dehydration. And the flora, just thick and green and beautiful. This is perfect for the beginner hiker who wants to build endurance. I will definitely pick these trails for those hot summer days in the valley, it is much cooler here. This trail up and down is a really great workout for the legs, but not physically exhausting like some of the steeper grades. And it is nice to get to Dog Lake, relax in the serenity of a mountain atmosphere with virtually no one around. And the trail run down Little Water Trail was great to finish off the hike with. Great for the mind body and spirit. I recommend this hike for a beginner to become familiar with the kind of terrain the hiking trails are like. Enjoy!
Trail Information and Directions
Mill Creek Canyon- Trail Head- 9.6 miles from Fee Station.
Distance to Dog Lake- 3 miles up/ 1.8 miles down.
Elevation Gain- 1200 vertical feet
Hiking Time- 1hr 56min up on Big Water, 1hr 3min down on Little Water
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