Millcreek Canyon

Millcreek Canyon

Millcreek Canyon   |  Jeff Robinson/Flickr
  • Weather: Chance Showers And Thunderstorms, 69F

Just minutes from Salt Lake City, Millcreek Canyon is an easy getaway with incredible views of the Wasatch Mountains and stunning canyon scenery. In the summer, you’ll find the picnic areas buzzing with family gatherings and BBQs and the trails active among both hikers and mountain bikers. In the winter, cross country skiing abounds, alongside hiking, snowshoeing, fat biking and even sledding.

Wasatch Mountains

Plan Your Trip

Plan for a safe, fun and respectful visit to Millcreek Canyon. The canyon can get congested, so consider visiting at an off-peak time. Be respectful of the local neighborhood and community, park only in designated areas and pack out everything you pack in. There is a daily access user fee, which is payable when leaving the canyon, and annual passes are available.

Be sure to pack everything you will need, including a topographic map, food, water, warm layers, a flashlight and first aid kit. Cell service can be very spotty in the canyon. Keep a close eye on kids and be watchful for dangers such as snakes, lightning, extreme temperatures/weather, avalanches, rockfalls and high streamflows. Also be sure to stay on marked trails to avoid poison ivy and prevent erosion.

The upper winter gate closes to vehicles November 1 (it reopens late spring) and Millcreek Canyon Road is groomed for cross country skiing. The groomed trail is also open for hiking, snowshoeing and fat bikes. In the winter, those entering the backcountry from a trailhead should regularly consult the Utah Avalanche Center website for critical avalanche safety information.

Picnic Areas and Camping

Picnic Areas

  • Summer picnic areas are open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Group picnic sites can be reserved (July 1 to September 30).
  • First-come, first-served picnic sites are also available.
  • Be a responsible canyon user by following all regulations and “leave no trace.”

Camping Information

  • Backcountry camping is allowed in Millcreek Canyon. You must camp at least 200 feet from trails, water and developed areas (and at least a 1/2 mile from the road).
  • Be sure to “leave no trace” and properly dispose of human waste. (Read: "How to Poop in the Outdoors")
  • Big Water Yurt (which requires a 4.5-mile ski or snowshoe) is available to reserve from December 1-April 30.

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