Salt Lake City Canyons

The towering mountains surrounding Salt Lake City are bisected by steep canyons, and in these chasms you will find some of the area's best scenery and opportunities for outdoor adventure.

Parleys Canyon

Located on the east side of the valley, is our most traveled canyon because it is the route for I-80, one of the area's main arteries. From the freeway you can see forested glens and inviting side roads. Mountain Dell Golf Course is located mid-canyon. East Canyon branches off to the north and provides a very scenic drive up to a small reservoir and state park. Lambs Canyon branches to the south. It is also scenic and provides access to a summer home area and several trailheads.

Little Cottonwood Canyon

It leads east into the mountains to Snowbird and Alta ski resorts. Numerous campgrounds and trailheads can be found along the roadway. A small stream trickles through the canyon bottom and provides opportunity for some trout fishing. During mid-summer, spectacular banks for wildflowers bloom in the Albion Basin at the top of this canyon.

Big Cottonwood Canyon

Leads to Brighton and Solitude ski resorts. It also offers many campgrounds, trailheads, and a small, fishable stream.

City Creek Canyon

Opens up from the north end of town, separating Capitol Hill from the Avenues area. Memory Grove is located in its mouth. It is very popular for hiking and biking.

Millcreek Canyon

Penetrates the mountains on the east side of the Salt Lake Valley. It offers extensive hiking trails. During winter it is a popular spot for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Emigration Canyon

Leads east into the mountains, providing access to hiking and biking trails. Hogle Zoo and This is the Place Heritage Park are located in its mouth. From the top of Emigration Canyon the road continues over the mountain and connects with East Canyon.