Big Cottonwood Canyon
Big Cottonwood Canyon is a high-elevation corridor southeast of Salt Lake City, known for year-round recreation. In winter, it's a top ski destination; in summer, it offers scenic hikes, limestone canyon climbing, and access to alpine lakes.
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Geography
| Address | Big Cottonwood Canyon, UT, USAUT-190 |
|---|---|
| Continent | North America |
| Region | Western United States |
| Subregion | Great Basin |
| Country | United States |
| State | Utah |
| County | Salt Lake County |
| District | Wasatch-Cache National Forest |
| City | Salt Lake City |
| Neighborhood | Big Cottonwood Canyon |
| Postal Code | 84121 |
| Timezone | AmericaDenver |
| Latitude | 40.628 |
| Longitude | -112 |
| Maps |
7:15 PM LOCAL TIMEBig Cottonwood Canyon is a glacially carved valley that runs from the Wasatch Range east of Salt Lake City to the foothills of the Great Basin. The canyon is fed by high-elevation snowfall from peaks like Stonebrae Peak and Grizzly Peak, making it a premier winter ski route, home to resorts such as Solitude and Brighton. In summer months, the canyon transitions to a trail-bound playground for elevation-gain hikes, wildflower meadows, and lakes like Lake Solitude—a popular overnight backpack destination. The route is lined with pine forests and limestone cliffs suitable for sport climbing and bouldering; trailheads provide access to routes of various grades. Encircling the canyon are roadside picnic areas, trailheads, and parking zones — useful for day trips, alpine fishing, or serving as gateways to longer trans-Wasatch routes.
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