Information
Landmark: Little Cottonwood CanyonCity: Salt Lake City
Country: USA Utah
Continent: North America
Little Cottonwood Canyon, Salt Lake City, USA Utah, North America
Overview
Little Cottonwood Canyon cuts through the Wasatch Mountains east of Salt Lake City, its steep cliffs and pine-covered slopes making it both wild and breathtaking.From the valley floor, it climbs about 15 miles into high alpine country, where sheer cliffs rise above thick forests and streams tumble noisily over rocks.With its sheer rock walls and endless trails, the canyon draws hikers, climbers, skiers, and anyone who loves the outdoors.The canyon stands out with sheer granite cliffs that catch the morning sun, slopes so steep they seem to drop away, and valleys winding narrowly between the rock walls.Glaciers have carved the land into dramatic shapes-sheer cliffs, jagged rock ledges, and basins that plunge deep into shadow.Aspen groves, alpine meadows, and dark conifers blanket the slopes, while cold streams tumble over rocks and waterfalls spill into the canyon below.The canyon shifts with the seasons-spring bursts with wildflowers and the roar of meltwater, summer unfolds in green trails and pockets of cool shade, autumn burns with gold and crimson leaves, and winter blankets everything in crisp, white snow.Little Cottonwood Canyon is famous for its wide range of outdoor adventures, with hiking trails that start as gentle strolls near the canyon mouth and climb toward rugged alpine routes leading to Mount Superior, Red Pine Lake, and White Pine Lake, where the air smells sharp and clean.Along the trail, hikers come across roaring waterfalls, sweeping glacial cirques, and wide-open vistas that stretch to the horizon.Rock climbing draws adventurers from across the globe to the canyon’s granite walls, where fingers press into cool, rough stone.You’ll find everything from easy climbs perfect for beginners to tough multi-pitch routes that scale sheer, sun‑warmed cliffs.You’ll find great climbing at Baldy Wall and on routes tucked near Albion Basin, where pine-scented air drifts through the rocks.Little Cottonwood boasts two major ski resorts, where you can carve world-class slopes or glide through fresh backcountry powder.Winter’s deep powder and sharp, challenging slopes draw in advanced skiers and snowboarders, eager for that crisp bite of cold air.While exploring the quieter trails and winding stream corridors, visitors might catch sight of mule deer stepping through the grass, a moose browsing in the willows, or a fox slipping past-and overhead, raptors circle while songbirds chatter in the trees.The canyon is full of natural wonders-seasonal waterfalls spill over its cliffs, and Little Cottonwood Creek runs steadily below, offering both breathtaking views and spots to relax by the water.Alpine flora and fauna flourish here, with bright wildflowers splashing color across open meadows and tough, wind-battered plants clinging to the rocky slopes above.You can spot wildlife year-round, from a deer crossing a frosty trail in winter to birds flitting through summer leaves.Granite cliffs, glacially carved basins, and jagged rocky outcrops reveal the canyon’s layered geologic story, drawing geologists and rock lovers who stop to run their hands over the cool, ancient stone.Trailheads with nearby parking make it easy to start your hike, climb, or ski trip-just pull in, lace up your boots, and go.On weekends and holidays, certain spots get packed fast, so it’s smart to show up early if you want a parking space.Scenic pullouts and shady picnic spots line the canyon road, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and take in the jagged cliffs and open sky.Access and safety: The roads are paved, but they twist and narrow in places, with sharp bends that hug the hillside; in winter, you’ll need chains or a four-wheel drive.During the winter, crews keep a close watch on the canyon for signs of avalanches, scanning the slopes for fresh cracks in the snow.Little Cottonwood Canyon feels wild and untamed, yet you can reach it in minutes, with pine-scented air wrapping around you as you step out of the car.Rushing streams murmur over smooth stones, wind whispers through the branches, and now and then a bird calls, wrapping you in the wild’s embrace.Sheer cliffs rise above alpine meadows, their jagged edges catching the morning light, giving the Wasatch Mountains both breathtaking drama and a true sense of scale.Shifts in seasonal light and fresh snow on the ground transform the view, so no two visits ever feel the same.Little Cottonwood Canyon, one of Utah’s top natural getaways, delivers rugged cliffs, trails for every pace, and wildlife from darting hummingbirds to shy mule deer.Sheer cliffs, winding alpine trails, icy waterfalls, and snowy slopes draw outdoor lovers year-round-climbers gripping cold rock, hikers crunching over pine needles, and anyone chasing the raw beauty of the Wasatch Mountains.
