Utah offers visitors a unique combination of cultural attractions, recreational adventures and widely diversified landscapes. Guests can expect everything for the state's wild beauty, from stark vistas of the Great Salt Lake Desert and soaring mountains and dense forests to awesome sprawl of red rock canyons. The Big Cottonwood Canyon is one of the most fabulous canyons east of Salt Lake City.

The Big Cottonwood Canyon Scenic Byway spreads over 15 miles. Spectacular views of rugged rocky peaks and mountain streams come into your view along the twisting byway. The Big Cottonwood Canyon is named for the numerous cottonwood trees near the bottom of the streams. In summer, the canyon offers excellent hiking, picnic areas and campgrounds and other popular activities. Its two ski resorts, Solitude and Brighton, are popular destinations for worldwide skiers and snowboarders during winter.

The 15-mile long Big Cottonwood Canyon provides an ideal escape for folks who attempt to avoid the valley heat. There're three popular campgrounds for campers. Just pack your camping gear and take the family out for a spectacular camping experience.

- Spruces Campground

Spruces Campground is the largest campground in the canyon area that sits at an elevation of 7,500 feet, about 9.7 miles up the canyon. The big campsite is set among dense aspens and spruces in the beautiful Big Cottonwood Canyon. Due to the high elevation, it can be a little chilly even in summer.

The campground consists of 9 group campsites and 97 individual sites. All sites have picnic tables, fire rings and BBQ grills. Campers can also find horseshoe pits, a volleyball court and a baseball filed within the campground. Portable water and firewood are available at the sites. Each individual site needs $14 per vehicle and additional vehicles will cost $5.

- Redman Campground

This is probably the best campground in the Big Cottonwood Canyon. The campsite is located at an elevation of 8,300 feet in shady pines, about 13 miles up the big canyon. A total of 29 campsites are available at the campground. Sites in the bottom loop of the campground are absolutely better spaced. One of the best sites is site #25 that is situated near the river separated from the rest of the loop. Redman campground sites also need $14 per vehicle.

- Jordan Pines

Located about 8.8 miles from the canyon entrance, Jordan Pines offers campers several large group camping sites. This campground is available by reservation only.

All these campgrounds are set in the beautiful Big Cottonwood Canyon. Vivid wildflowers are abundant in the summertime. If you go camping during the fall, the autumn leaves will put on a dramatic background to enhance your camping experience. Now another question comes How to get to the campgrounds. Don't worry! The specific directions are offered for you.

Visitors can proceed on I-215 and take the 6200 South Exit. Continue to drive eastbound for 1 mile to Wasatch Blvd. Drive along Wasatch Blvd for 1 mile and you will come to the junction with Big Cottonwood Canyon. Turn left at the junction and travel up to 8.8 miles of the canyon, you'll get to the Jordan Pines. To arrive at the Spruces Campground, you need to continue to travel up Big Cottonwood Canyon 9.7 miles. Visitors to the Redman Campground can drive up to 13 miles of the canyon.

Camping Alerts:

- Both of Redman Campground and Spruces Campground has first come, first served sites. But reservations are strongly recommended on weekends and holidays. All reservations must be made at least 3 days prior to your camping date.

- The campgrounds require a 2-night minimum stay on weekends and a 3-night minimum stay on holiday weekends.

- No animals, ATVs or ORVs are allowed on the campgrounds in the canyon. In accordance with the culinary watershed rules, swimming and wading are prohibited on the campgrounds.

In addition to camping, Big Cottonwood Canyon is also a popular destination for various other activities with its soaring peaks, cascading streams and pristine lakes. A variety of hiking and mountain biking trails are available in the area. You might be concerned with the accommodations when night falls. Big Cottonwood Canyon presents visitors various lodging options.

Numerous hotels are located through the Big Cottonwood Canyon. Popular options include Brighton Lodge at 12601 Big Cottonwood Canyon Rd., the Inn at Solitude at 12000 Big Cottonwood Canyon Rd., Powderhorn Lodge and Silver Fork Lodge. These hotels are conveniently located on the Big Cottonwood Road and provide comfortable and spacious accommodation for guests. For more detailed info, please go to their official websites.

Big Cottonwood Canyon Hotels

http://www.fodors.com/world/north-america/usa/utah/wasatch-range-with-park-city/hotels-nam_loc:650982.html

Big Cottonwood Canyon also offers diversified vacation rentals. Whether you're going to the ski resorts or taking a camping or hiking trip, you can find the best home rentals for your varying needs. Mount Majestic Properties has the perfect home rentals for visitors. Various private family vacation rentals are available and you can have immediate access to the slopes and attractions in the canyon. To inquire more about the vacation homes, condos or cabins, please call Adrienne in Brighton at 888-236-0667.

Brighton Rental Properties

http://www.mountmajestic.com/brighton-homes.shtml

Big Cottonwood Canyon Vacation Rentals

http://www.10kvacationrentals.com/region/Big_Cottonwood_Canyon,_Utah.htm

As the capital of Utah, the Salt Lake City is a terrific place for any one who loves skiing. And this beautiful city once fascinated a large number of people by its charm and elegance during the 2002 Olympic Winter Games. Today, this historic city becomes a world-class popular skiing destination, with a series of local attractions visited frequently by tourists ever year. The Big Cottonwood Canyon, which is situated about 12 miles away from the city, is one of these area attractions that are highly appreciated by visitors.

The Big Cottonwood Canyon, which is 15 miles in length, is really a spectacular canyon. Over the years, it has performed as an unmatchable venue for various adventurous activities, like hiking, biking and rock-climbing, etc. Undoubtedly, it is one of the best-loved destinations for adventurers across the world.

Beginning at the eastern border of the Salt Lake Valley, the Big Cottonwood Canyon is blessed with splendid scenery. Plus, this canyon also boasts a wide variety of nice hiking trails stretching from the mouth of the canyon to Brighton. Considering the large number of well-maintained trails and breathtaking views along the way, the Big Cottonwood Canyon is definitely the best objective for any weekend hikers.

Learn More about the Big Cottonwood Canyon

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Big_Cottonwood_Canyon

If you call yourself an adventurer, then you should really plan a hiking trip to the Big Cottonwood Canyon. There are so many wonderful hiking trails scattered throughout the valley, on both sides of the canyon. It is a perfect place for you to put your courage to the test. For visitors that are not quite familiar with this area, the following maps might be helpful.

Geographic Map of the Big Cottonwood Canyon

http://utah.hometownlocator.com/maps/distance-directions2.cfm?canyon@38.8069113,-112.3743811

Big Cottonwood Canyon Hiking Map

http://www.willhiteweb.com/big_cottonwood_canyon/hiking/trails_193.htm

The second map we recommend also offers a load of information about different hiking trails in Big Cottonwood Canyon. It even marks a number of pretty good hiking routes for you to refer to. If you are planning a hiking trip, this map would be very useful. As we are on the topic of hiking, it would be necessary to remind you that you should never go hiking to the Big Cottonwood Canyon area rashly, since these hiking routes might too dangerous for you and your friends. However, if you are experienced, it would be quite another matter.

Before you head out for any adventure activities to the Big Cottonwood Canyon, there is one thing worth your attention, especially when you are going to drive to this area. Although the warm months of summer are approaching, the Bit Cottonwood Canyon area might get a fair amount of snow recently. Therefore, it is best for you to check out the road condition when you plan your hiking trip.

As reported, during next a few days, a mix of rain and snow will track across this region. Therefore, most roads for you to arrive at the Big Cottonwood Canyon would be wet. That might make it difficult to drive.

SR-190 Big Cottonwood Canyon Mouth to Spruces as well as SR-190 Spruces and above would be wet. But it is still open for driving visitors. You just need to drive through this section as careful as possible.

If you are going to travel from SR-39 Ogden to Jct. SR-167 Trappers Loop, US-40 through Daniels Canyon, US-89 Upper Logan Canyon and Logan Summit or I-15 to Wellsville via Sardine Summit, you will be glad to know that these regions are just overcast or partly cloudy. However, these roads are under construction at present. So, it might also be a little difficult for you to proceed through.

Cases are even worse when it comes to SR-31 Fairview Canyon. Although there is no snow or rain currently, the road is covered by accumulated snow. Besides, SR-31 Huntington Canyon, SR-153 Elk Meadows to Puffer Lake and SR-143 Brian Head to Mammoth Creek Road are snow covered. If any of them is your only way to reach the Big Cottonwood Canyon, it is advisable for you to prepare some snow tires chains or 4WD.

Additionally, snow tires chains are also recommended for visitors driving from SR-39 Jct. SR-167 Trappers Loop to Monte Cristo, SR-143 Parowan to Brian Head, SR-226 to Snowbasin, SR-158 to Powder Mountain, SR-31 Fairview Canyon and SR-153 Beaver to Elk Meadows.

If possible, you can change your route slightly to take US-89 Lower Logan Canyon or US-191 Duchesne to Helper through Indian Canyon instead. The weather would be very nice in this region and these roads are dry currently. You can be totally rest assured to take advantage of US-89 or US-191, since there would not be any inconvenience for you to enjoy a pleasant self-driving tour to the Big Cottonwood Canyon.

Note that, the road condition always varies by weather and the weather in this region might change frequently. For the sake of safety, you are suggested to check out the road condition regularly to get the lasted information.

Lasted Information about Road Condition

http://511.commuterlink.utah.gov/tats.web.report/#G2

Hiking is a fun experience that you can take part in. Big cottonwood canyon offers hiking experience in Salt Lake City. It has perfect jumping off points that are good for day time hiking and treks for getting back to the staring point through the Wasatch Mountains. It has animals such as goats, moose, bears and elk.

There are tips that can help you have fun during the hiking experience. These include; bringing plenty of water with you. This is to cater for the greater altitudes. Ensure that you have appropriate safety gear before you begin the journey.

hiking in big Cottonwood canyon, Utah

http://traveltips.usatoday.com/hiking-big-cottonwood-canyon-utah-5122.html

Salt Lake City is the greatest hiking destination in America. It has great hikes in the United States with natural forests and national parks. It has various types of hikes that you can choose from divided into morning hike and afternoon hikes. The trails lead to lakes like Lofty lake loop, Timpanogos cave, Brighton lakes and Doughnut falls.

5 Great Day Hikes near Salt Lake City

http://adventuretravel.about.com/od/hikingwalking/a/Salt_Lake_Hikes.htm

It has hundred of miles trail distributed on the mountains which are good for beginners. These trails lead you to the various beautiful alpine lakes and vistas. You should not scramble or balance on the ledges. They have an ascending trend that prepares you psychologically for the hike. You should choose the trail based on the ascending you are comfortable with to reduce getting tired along the way.

Best beginner Hikes In Salt Lake City

http://www.nileguide.com/destination/salt-lake-city/trips/best-beginner-hikes-in-salt-lake-city/7068046

For beginners it is important to have company and not hike alone. Start off with easy trails, wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Comfortable fitting hiking boots are the best since they protect your feet.

hiking tips for beginners

http://www.essortment.com/all/hikingtips_rckc.htm

The big cottonwood canyon scenic byway is along the twisting byway meant for visitors can expect to see spectacular views of rugged rocky peaks and beautiful mountain streams. As you move up the elevation it is like a layer of cake of biological zones with microcosm of temperature, water, geology and sun.

The scenic byway has canyons named for the enormous cottonwood trees that grew the creek bottoms and also known for the aspen forests that burst into shades of red, orange and yellow on each fall. The byway has picnic areas, campgrounds and hiking trails.

Big cottonwood canyon scenic byway

http://www.byways.org/explore/byways/2004/

The big cottonwood canyon scenic byway is bounded by mount Olympus and Lone peak wilderness areas, big cottonwood that provides refuge for surprising diversity of wildlife that is close to the urban environment. Some of the resident species include large mammals like deer, elk, moose, mountain goat, mountain lion and bear. It also has small animals such as coyote, fox, beaver, badger, ferret, rabbit and mice. The birds that are available include hawks, eagles, owls and migratory birds. Reptiles, amphibians and fish live in and around the waters.

Big cottonwood canyon scenic byway

http://www.trails.com/tcatalog_trail.aspx?trailid=XFA103-021

When driving along the belt route on 1-215 you can see it. It just blocks away from the main, bustling from the metropolitan salt lake county. It reaches over 11,000 and picturesque winding canyon roads access communities as high as 8,500 inches. It forms the flat valleys and high mountains that trap storms moving in from the west of the world-famous powder snow.

Big cottonwood canyon scenic byway

http://www.byways.org/explore/byways/2004/

National forest scenic byways

http://www.byways.org/explore/byways/other/usfs

Situated in the world-class ski resortSalt Lake City, the Big Cottonwood Canyon is visited by a large number of tourists every year. This 15-mile-long canyon is widely considered as a wonderful destination for various adventurous activities. It boasts two well known ski resorts: Brighton and Solitude which are highly appreciated by skiers and snowboarders across the world.

Besides, the Big Cottonwood Canyon offers visitors a bunch of great picnic areas with spectacular vista. And climbing mountains at the Big Cottonwood Canyon is also counted as a popular activity among young people. Actually, the Big Cottonwood Canyon consists of an array of amazing attractions. Amongst all the sites, the Storm Mountain, S-Curve Area and its two famous ski resorts are the most visited.

As a wonderful hiking destination, the Big Cottonwood also features a diversity of hiking trails. These trails are ideal for hikers who are looking for challenge. Plus, each hiking trail is likely to lead visitors to a different mountain peak. For those who prefer a peaceful and relaxed exploring tour to adventure, the Big Cottonwood Canyon is also a wonderful bet. You should really make it clear that this area is surrounded by amazing scenery and highlights splendid vista of the city.

Learn More about Big Cottonwood Canyon

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Big_Cottonwood_Canyon

In honor of the beginning of summer, why not treat yourself to an enjoyable getaway to the Big Cottonwood Canyon? Taking a short walking tour or going biking, camping or even fishing at the BCC would be a pretty good idea. However, before your trip, there is something deserving of your special attention. The weather around the Big Cottonwood Canyon might change frequently. So, it is best to learn as more as possible about the weather condition in this region when you plan your visit.

What can you expect from the weather on your forthcoming trip to the Big Cottonwood Canyon? As reported, the weather of this area is not going to be pretty. There is a chance of light rain for the next a few days. Worse yet, it might snow sometimes. For your better understanding, we list out a load of detailed information about weather for the following week.

April 18, 2011: Chances are it will be slightly cold on Monday, since the highest temperature is only 49 degree while the lowest temperature is 30 degree. There is a 95 percent probability of light rain. The humidity is up to 89 percent and the wind will be at about 11 mph.

If your Big Cottonwood Canyon trip happens to include a tour to scenic mountains in this area, then you are strongly suggested to bring with you one more coat. Mountain weather might change rapidly and the temperature would definitely lower than the average temperature. For the sake of safety, it is best to cancel adventure activities like rock-climbing and hiking.

April 19, 2011: It is likely to snow on Tuesday. As a result, the temperature would be very low at the Big Cottonwood Canyon. The highest temperature for Tuesday drops to 39 degree, while the lowest temperature will be only 26 degree. Besides, a few periods of light rain will across this region through Tuesday afternoon. The humidity is a little lower than Tuesday's, but the wind will increase to 12 mph.

There might be more wet and windy weather for the next couple of day. Therefore, visitors are recommended to dress more layers to avoid getting cold. Additionally, your thrilling activities might have to be put off due to light snow and rain around the Big Cottonwood Canyon.

April 20, 2011: There is still a chance of light snow when it comes to Wednesday. However, it seems to be a little warmer than Tuesday, with the highest temperature rises to 49 degree again. The lowest temperature remains below 30 degree. The good news is that the weather is going to be much dryer on Wednesday. The humidity is only 77 percent and the wind will calm to 4 mph.

Chances are your Big Cottonwood Canyon trip on Wednesday would be a successful and enjoyable experience, because the wind clams down and the weather becomes dryer. However, you should still take some precaution measures to avoid getting caught in the rain. And extra clothes are kind of necessary since the lowest temperature for this day is only 23 degree.

April 21, 2011: Dry but cloudy weather would give way to light snow on Thursday. However, there are a few signs of good weather for this weekend. The lowest temperature will rise to 28 degree and the humidity is going to drop to 75 percent. The wind remains between 4 and 5 mph.

The wind on Thursday is expected to be around 5 mph and the temperature would be between 28 and 46 degree. So, it won't be very cold and it is possible for you to enjoy a wonderful getaway to the Big Cottonwood Canyon.

April 22, 2011: This region might be hit by light snow on Friday, but the possibility is very low. The highest temperature would drop to 42 degree while the lowest temperature might only 23 degree. However, Friday is expected to be dryer than the past few days. The humidity is 69 percent and there is only a 25 percent probability of light rain. The wind will be still at about 4 mph.

April 23, 2011: When it comes to Saturday, the weather would be wonderful. The highest temperature will be up to 45 degree while the lowest temperature remains at 23 degree. As it is a sunny weekend, the precipitation chance is only 13 percent or even lower. The humidity is 70 percent and the wind would calm to 3 mph.

Both Friday and Saturday are ideal for your Big Cottonwood Canyon adventure, since the weather tends to be warm and dry. The wind is very calm and there is no need to worry about being caught in light rain.

More Details about Weather in This Region

http://www.climbingweather.com/Utah/Big-Cottonwood-Canyon

Big Cottonwood Canyon is a beautiful canyon in the Wasatch Range. It's located about 12 miles southeast of Salt Lake City in Utah. The canyon spans over 15 miles long and starts at the eastern border of the Salt Lake Valley where the Rocky Mountains meet the Great Basin floor.

The canyon offers spectacular vistas that are created by the magic erosive power of winding rivers. The beautiful Alpine scenery and a wide variety of recreational activities draw countless visitors to the canyon year-round. The 15-mile long Big Cottonwood Canyon offers premier biking, rock-climbing, camping, fishing and hiking in summer. One of the best ways to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the canyon is to take one of the hiking trails.

Big Cottonwood Canyon in Wiki

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Big_Cottonwood_Canyon

Big Cottonwood Canyon Scenic Byway

http://www.utah.com/byways/big_cottonwood.htm

Big Cottonwood Canyon has various hiking trails for hikers. From Brighton Lakes to Mill D North, your hiking adventures at the terrific canyon are endless. Just pack your bag and enjoy one the best hiking trails.

- Donut Falls Hiking Trail

To take the beautiful Donut Falls Hiking Trail, you need to take a right at the spot approximately 9 miles up Big Cottonwood Canyon. Drive past the Jordan Pines Picnic Area and some private properties until you come to the trailhead parking lot. You can park your cars at the lot. Because of the popularity of the hike, the trailhead parking lot fills up quickly, especially on weekends.

The Donut Falls Hiking Trail begins at south of the parking lot by the restrooms. The whole trail passes through woods and meadows. You can appreciate beautiful views of the surrounding terrain and stream. When you're approaching the falls, you can hear the cascading water in the distance. When the trail leads you to the falls, just walk across a small log bridge to the east side of the stream. There you can take a fantastic view of the falls and the donut.

- Broads Fork Hiking Trail

If you want to get out for more fresh air and beautiful views, the Broads Fork Hiking Trail is recommended for you. The trail starts at the Lower S-Turn about 4.5 miles up the Big Cottonwood Canyon. It can lead you up to a steep angled hill filled with aspens and pine trees. Head on and you'll get to the Twin Peaks Wilderness sign. Continue to pass some rock outcrops and thick spruces. Then you'll come to a creek with a bridge over it. When you reach the first ridge, views of the Broad Forks Twin Peaks will be presented. The whole trail ends up at a meadow with breathtaking views of the Twin Peaks and the Canyon.

- Bear Trap Fork

The Bear Trap Fork trail and its trail head can be the most elusive one for hikers. You need to start from the Forest Service Sign "BEAR TRAP FORK" that is located about 11.2 miles up to Big Cottonwood Canyon. The next stop for the trail is a small hill covered in aspens. The small hill offers great views of the other side of the canyon. The trail will guide you to a wonderful little meadow. Climb up the hill and you'll get to a dense forest of pines and aspens. The destinations of the hike offer great views of Big Cottonwood Canyon, Millcreak and the American Fork Twins in Little Cottonwood Canyon.

- Brighton Lakes Trail

This is a great hiking trail for beautiful views, scenic lakes and diverse landscape and Moose. Brighton Lakes Trail starts from the Brighton Ski Resort parking lot. The trail winds around the original trail. It ends about half a mile back on the old trail. The hike up to Lake Mary is quite steep. But it's just a short way.

- Lake Blanch Mill B South Trail

The trail head starts from the lower S-Turn in Big Cottonwood Canyon. The trail starts up a small hill and you'll get to a switchback after crossing a stream. There you can get the first look at Sundial Peak, an appealing view with red rock cliffs. After several switchbacks and inclines, you'll get to Lake Blanch, which is located directly below Sundial Peak. The lake offers an awesome view of the canyon below, Dromedary Peak, the back side of Superior and Monte Cristo.

Other hiking trails include:

- Mill D North Trail

- Lake Mary Hiking Trail

- The Mineral Fork Hiking Trail

Hiking Map of Big Cottonwood Canyon

http://www.trails.com/activity.aspx?area=12056