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Little Cottonwood Canyon is located approx 20 miles from downtown Salt Lake City. This "U" shaped canyon was carved out by an alpine glacier, 15,000 to 25,000 years ago. Today, Little Cottonwood Canyon's towering smooth granite walls and rugged peaks make the prefect playground for outdoor activities. At the base of the canyon is the site where Mormon pioneers quarried the canyons granite slaps to build the Salt Lake Temple. The Temple Quarry Trail offers visitors a glimpse into the history of this quarry site. Just one mile up the canyon you will come to a large parking area. To the west of this parking area you can hike to one of the rock quarries. This location is a very popular area for rock climbers as they test their skills on the large boulders and towering granite walls.
Campgrounds:
Little Cottonwood Canyon offers two campgrounds; Albion Basin and the Tanners Flat campground. The Albion Basin campground sits at an elevation of 9,500 feet and opens in early July. The Albion Basin is a hiker’s paradise with trails leading to Cecret Lake, Catherine Pass to Sunset Peak, and the Cardiff Pass/Twin Lake Pass hiking trails. The Albion basin is renowned for its summer wildflowers and each year the basin hosts the Wasatch Wildflower Festival. The Tanners Flat campground sits at an elevation of 7,200 feet. This beautiful campground is nestled among pines, aspen, oak, and maple trees. Popular hiking trails include Red Pine Lake, White Pine Lake and Maybird Gulch, all beautiful hikes leading to alpine lakes. The Tanners Flat campground opens in early May.
Skiing and Snowboarding:
Two of Utah's world class ski resorts call Little Cottonwood Canyon home. The Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort offers year around activities. Snowbird averages 500 inches of "The Greatest Snow on Earth" and Utah's longest ski and snowboard season. The Snowbird Tram whisks visitors to the top of Hidden Peak. At 11,000 feet the views are breath taking. Located just 1 mile further up the canyon is the Alta Ski Resort, Utah's ski only resort. Alta's wide variety of terrain, breathtaking alpine scenery and superb snow conditions combine to create a unique setting for unforgettable outdoor experiences. In the summer months visitors can enjoy hiking Alta's slopes including the Albion basin.
Whether you're a resident of the state of Utah or you're a visiting our great state, Utah's diverse recreational opportunities are just a short drive from your home or hotel. The beautiful views and many outdoor activities located up Little Cottonwood Canyon are waiting for you.
Driving Directions:
From Salt Lake City, take I-215 to the 6200 South "Canyons" exit and then continue south on UT-190. Continue east on Wasatch BLVD. Follow sign to Snowbird, Alta Ski Resorts.
More Information:
Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest
Salt Lake Office
125 South State Street
Salt Lake City, UT 84138
(801) 236-3400
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