Big Cottonwood Canyon is one of many spectacular canyons in Utah’s Wasatch Range. It is located 12 miles southeast of Salt Lake City. The canyon itself measures 15 miles in length and is the go-to destination for tourists for all kinds of activities, hiking among the favorites. This is a list of the best trails and Big Cottonwood Canyon hikes to add to your itinerary.

Top 5 Big Cottonwood Canyon Hikes

When you visit this canyon, you have a wide array of activities to choose from – hiking, camping, rock climbing, fishing (in the summer), and picnicking. But if you want to marvel at the stunning natural beauty of the canyon, hiking is the best way to go.

Check out this list of the 5 best Big Cottonwood Canyon hikes to check out on your next visit.

Brighton Lakes Trail

The Brighton Lakes Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Utah’s Big Cottonwood Canyon. As the name implies, the main destination of this hike is the scenic Brighton Lakes. This trail measures approximately 4.5 miles long and takes anywhere from 2.5 to 4 hours to complete, depending on your pace.

This is an excellent hike for those who are seeking epic views of lakes, wildflowers, and the gorgeous landscape of Big Cottonwood Canyon. You will embark on this hiking trail from the parking lot of Brighton Ski Resort. Then, you will gradually ascend Dog Lake 

There is an elevation gain of more than 1,000 feet during this hike. The actual elevation at the trailhead is more than 8,000 feet. This hiking trail has a moderate difficulty level, so it can be suitable even for those who are not experienced with hiking. Most parts of the trail are well marked. Make sure you wear proper footwear because you will be walking over dirt and rocks.

The Days Fork Trail

The Days Fork Trail is another recommended Big Cottonwood Canyon hike. It is located in the Spruces Campground with an approximate length of 9.7 miles. This is a great hiking trail because you can explore it during summer or winter. Most of those who hike this trail do so during the winter because many like to do it with snowshoes. 

The trail begins at the campground’s southwest corner. Head towards the parking lot and then you will pass through the restrooms. After that, you will see the sign indicating the beginnning of the Days Fork Trail. 

The start of the trail will have you traversing a short yet steep climb. After that, the trail levels off nicely, so you can expect a leisurely hike with a gradual elevation change. The trail is surrounded by aspens and pines along with a few wide open spots. 

When you hike during winter, you need to be very cautious, especially if you reach the upper section known as the Lower Meadow. This area is known to be at risk of avalanches. If you push on with this part of the trail, make sure you are fully equipped. It’s also a good idea to check the avalanche conditions prior to your hike. With a total elevation gain of 2,000 feet, this is a moderately difficult trail, but one that can be completed in 30 minutes to an hour. 

Bear Trap Fork Trail

The start of this trail is a little more difficult to find, which is approximately 11 miles from Big Cottonwood Canyon. This is one of the most exciting hikes in the area and is better suited to more experienced hikers.

You will start off your journey by bush whacking your way onto a small hill top. This will open up the trail, then you make your way through a couple of stream crossings. You will make a small climb before reaching a forest of aspens.

There is a small meadow that will greet you afterwards with an opening in the canopy. As you continue making your way through the trail, you will be reminded of an epic movie setting as it is filled with lots of gigantic granite stones. The rest of the trail will take you to some of the most exciting views in the Big Cottonwood Canyon, such as Desolation Lake and Desolation Peak. 

Donut Falls Hiking Trail

There is no shortage of waterfalls in Big Cottonwood Canyon. If you would like to see one, make sure to explore the Donut Falls Hiking Trail. As one of the recommended Big Cottonwood Canyon hikes, this one is located approximately 9 miles up the canyon.

The hike to the Donut Falls is only ¾ of a mile in distance with an elevation gain of 420 feet. Therefore, it is a great hiking trail for beginners or families. It takes approximately 30 minutes to complete and is absolutely kid-friendly.

The parking lot of the Donut Falls Hiking Trail also provides plenty of rooms for cars, so you won’t have to worry about visiting on holidays or weekends. To the south of the parking lot by the restrooms, you will find the starting point of the hike. You will be making your way through woods and meadows, along with some streams.

As you go deeper into this trail, you’ll know when you are getting close to the waterfall because you will gradually hear the cascading waters from afar. There is a “donut hole” at the top of the waterfall, but it is not recommended that you climb up there. In fact, it is prohibited since the rocks near the hole can be very slippery.

Broads Fork Hiking Trail

This hike starts about 4.5 miles up the Big Cottonwood Canyon. It is the first trail you will encounter to the west of the parking lot’s S-turn. 

The trail starts off with a steep angled hill climb. Once you overcome this steep climb, you will see the Twin Peaks Wilderness sign. You will then make your way through rocky outcrops and thick spruces before reaching a bridge over a creek. You will then make another ascent onto a hill, allowing you to get to the first ridge in order to witness the Broads Fork Twin Peaks. 

As you wind your way down the trail and into a meadow, you will be able to see the views of the Twin Peaks, as well as the canyon. This hike will take approximately 2 hours to complete. 

These Big Cottonwood Canyon hikes deliver the goods when it comes to enjoying stunning views that are unique to the area. Make sure to lace up your hiking boots as you’ll definitely find yourself wandering these trails and be lost in its beauty.

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