Big Cottonwood Canyon, Salt Lake City

The whole canyon is magnificent. The trail, Temple Quarry is a lot of fun, but watch for high-speed mtn bikers.

Beautiful scenery. Definitely worth the drive up and down the canyon. (chew gum for the ear pops!) Stop along the way up for a few great photo ops! Fantastic work trip and first time in Utah!

We've lived here near the "Canyons" for over three decades and still never tire of the drive, especially in the fall. Of course there is nothing quite like getting out for a hike and immersing yourself in the fall colors; but if you only have a quick hour or so, or have company visiting and you can only do a quick drive, then take a drive up Little Cottonwood (Big Cottonwood is the next canyon north, with the resorts of Solitide & Brighton). At the top are the resorts of Snowbird and Alta; and along the way there are many pullouts and entrances to hiking trails (Red Pine Lake is one of our favorites). During the busy fall months the drive can get backed up a bit, as can the parking, so Alta will often run shuttles from their resort entrance for visitors driving up to see the colors; those of you wishing to drive your own car there (or venture further up for some spectacular hiking) you'll have to pay a $10 access fee which helps keep the parking somewhat open at the trailheads near the higher elevations. Quite a number of eateries around the resorts, even in summer; and often events such as beer festivals or Octoberfest celebrations go on during the fall weekends. I've purposely left out the winter/skiing scene because that has been covered to no end (and yes, the drive gets even more crowded in winter, especially on the weekends; as we tell all of our ski visitors, try to ski during the week...and catch the ski bus instead of driving).

Love this place! I’ve only been there twice now for family pictures. Once in winter and then just last weekend for summer pictures. Love how beautiful the scenery is. Both times there were maybe 3-4 photography shoots going on but there were also people fishing, hiking and taking walks.

I LOVE the hiking, snowshoeing and crampon opportunities offered up Big Cottonwood Canyon—- can’t go wrong on ANY of the trail options! Dog Lake, Desolation, Brighton, Donut Falls, Mill B, Lake Blanche and MORE! Several connect up and over- good all year long!