Bear Canyon Bridge

Start at the Orson Smith trailhead in Draper. Follow the signs to the suspension bridge, then loop back to where you started. Approximately 2.5 mile loop. Not shaded.

Mehraban Wetlands Park

Draper’s Mehraban Wetlands Park offers visitors up to a mile of walking opportunities on paved and gravel paths through a natural wetland environment. In addition to lush wetland vegetation the park also features two large ponds that are popular with fisherman and nature lovers alike. The entire trail is either paved or packed gravel and is suitable for children and adults of all abilities.

Trailhead

Mehraban Wetlands Park is located at 898 E. Riparian Drive in Draper, Utah. To reach the park from I-15:

1. Take Exit 292 for 11400 South.
2. Turn east onto 11400 South and continue 1.7 miles.
3. Turn right onto 1000 East and continue 0.5 miles.
4. Turn right onto Riparian Dr., and continue 0.2 miles to the parking area on the left (40.536410, -111.866495).

The Route

From the parking area, begin hiking on the paved path heading into the wetlands. The path circles around the south end of the park before arriving at a junction. To the left is a trail that accesses two small ponds while continuing straight leads to the north end of the park on Willow Wood Dr.

Turn left at the junction and continue walking to the first of two ponds in the park. A gravel path follows the perimeter of the first pond. Several park benches and a dock are available. Just beyond the first pond, cross a wooden bridge before arriving at the larger of the two ponds known as Sunset Pond where another dock and park benches offer visitors a place to sit and take in the scenery.

Return the way you came. Total hiking distance is variable depending on the route you choose, but it is easy to walk up to 1 mile by following the various trails throughout the park.

Rules and Regulations

• Dogs allowed on leash.
• Clean up after pets.
• No littering.
• No smoking or open flames.
• Stay on designated trails.
• Park closes at 10 p.m. daily.

Stokes Nature Center

Discover a piece of natural history or take in the beauty of the surrounding area at Stokes Nature Center. You can make friends with live reptiles and amphibians, learn amazing things about rocks and fossils, and enjoy the native plants and animals along the Logan River. You are never too old or too young to explore nature.
2696 East U.S.Hwy. 89, 1 mile up Logan Canyon
(435) 755-3239
Call for days and hours of operation.

April through October: Wed- Sat, 10:00am to 4:00pm

November through March: Wed- Fri, 10:00am to 4:00pm

Stokes Nature Center strives to have the interpretive center open to the public during all of our regular hours of operation.  However, school and community programs sometimes take our small staff offsite for programs.  Calling ahead can help ensure you are greeted by a staff member or docent during your visit.

Call the center at 435-755-3239

Parking & Trail Access

Access to Stokes Nature Center is located approximately 1 mile into Logan Canyon when accessed from Logan along US Hwy 89.  Parking is available on the north side of Hwy 89 by the wooden Cache National Forest sign, or just east of this area along the south side of Hwy 89.  There are a limited number of parking spots directly at the entrance to the River Trail, adjacent to the metal gate.  Vehicles should not block the gated entrance, which is for staff and handicap visitor access.

The River Trail is a popular recreational trailway enjoyed by numerous hikers, mountain bikers, families and pet owners.  Winter months see regular use by cross-country skiers and snow bikes.  The 1/3 mile stretch of trail between the highway access and the Stokes Interpretive Center is a narrow one-way track with frequent pedestrian encounters.  We ask that vehicle access is restricted to SNC staff and visitors needing handicap accessibility.  The trail can become heavily sheeted with ice during winter months, making vehicle access unsafe.  If you have questions about accessing the interpretive center, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Schedule a Group Visit

 Large family groups, Girl or Boy Scout troupes, youth organizations or other large groups are encouraged to schedule a free visit and tour of the interpretive center with one of our environmental education staff members.  We will be happy to show you around the center, introduce you to our native critters, and tell you a little about the flora and fauna of Logan Canyon.

Call us in advance to ensure a knowledgeable staff member is ready to greet you and make your visit a memorable one.  Contact us at 435-755-3239 or nature[at]logannature.org.

 

 

Wasatch Crest Trail

Wasatch Crest Trail from Guardsmans Pass TH
via Elbow Fork
 Hike Time: 8.5 to 14.5 hours
 Distance: 11.7 miles
 Elevation Gain: 2844 feet
Main Aspect: All Directions
 Climb Rate: 243 feet per mile
 Average Grade: 5%
Notes: The trail follows the ridge between Park City and the Cottonwood Canyons. This is also part of the Great Western Trail. You can take side trips to several peaks along the way.

Trailhead: Guardsmans Pass TH
Trailhead Elevation: 9490 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No
Distance from Park-N-Ride: 17.1 miles
Area: Big Cottonwood Canyon
Area Location: East on 7200 S (SR190) in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: The Guardsman Pass road turns off the Big Cottonwood Canyon Rd just before you get to Brighton. Follow the road to the summit. The parking area is usually crowded. This is also the start of the Wasatch Crest trail for mountain bikers.

Waypoint 1: Scott Pass
 Elevation: 9485 Feature: Saddle
Notes: The pass is between Scott Hill and Tri-County Peak. It borders the Park City Mountain Ski Resort. This pass was used as an alternative route into Big Cottonwood Canyon, before the road up Big Cottonwood was well developed.

Waypoint 2: Scott Hill
 Elevation: 10116 Feature: Peak
Notes: Named for the Scott Mine that was located on the hill. The miners named Scott were not around long, but the name stuck. It is been a point of reference in Big Cottonwood Canyon.(from The Lady In The Ore Bucket by Charles Keller)

Waypoint 3: Silver Peak
 Elevation: 10002 AKA: Silver Benchmark
 Feature: Peak
Notes: It is at the top of the ridge separating Willow Fork and Beartrap Fork.

Waypoint 4: Desolation Peak
 Elevation: 9990 AKA: Ninety Nine 90
 Feature: Peak
Notes: The peak looks down on Desolation Lake, but also provides great 360 degree views. The Wasatch Crest trail goes below its base, so it is likely you will see mountain bikers, especially on odd days of the month when bikers are allowed in upper Mill Creek.

Waypoint 5: Park City Overview
 Elevation: 8930 Feature: Saddle
Notes: The Park City Overview pass is, of course, between Mill Creek Canyon and Park City. It is near one of the Park City ski resorts.

Waypoint 6: Elbow Fork
 Elevation: 6650 Feature: Trail-Nature
Notes: Elbow Fork is a sharp 90 degree turn in the Mill Creek Canyon road. There are several trailheads and destinations in this area.

Destination: Wasatch Crest Trail
Elevation: 10060 Feature: Trail-Distance
Notes: The Wasatch Crest Trail is a popular with hikers and mountain bikers.

Scott Hill

There are two trails to Scott Hill:

Scott Hill from Guardsmans Pass TH via Scott Pass (less steep, more mountain bikes)
 Hike Time (roundtrip): 2.0 to 3.0 hours
 Distance (roundtrip): 3.6 miles
 Elevation Gain: 626 feet
Main Aspect: All Directions
 Climb Rate: 348 feet per mile
 Average Grade: 7%
Notes: You can side slope around Tri-County Peak and the Jupiter Bowl hill, then drop down to Scott Pass. The trail from Scotts Pass to Scotts Hill is lovingly referred to as Puke Hill by the mountain bike community.
Trailhead: Guardsman Pass TH
Trailhead Elevation: 9490 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No
Distance from Park-N-Ride: 17.1 miles
Area: Big Cottonwood Canyon
Area Location: East on 7200 S (SR190) in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: The Guardsman Pass road turns off the Big Cottonwood Canyon Rd just before you get to Brighton. Follow the road to the summit. The parking area is usually crowded. This is also the start of the Wasatch Crest trail for mountain bikers.
Waypoint 1: Tri-County Peak
 Tri-County Peak
 Elevation: 10026 AKA: Guardsmans Pass Peak
 Feature: Peak
Notes: I first climbed this peak in the winter, on snowshoes. I didn’t see anyone the whole way up from where they close the Guardsmans Pass road in the winter. Once on the peak, I kept hearing voices. When I looked over the north edge I saw a Park City ski lift about 50 feet away – it made me chuckle.
Waypoint 2: Scott Pass
 Elevation: 9485 Feature: Saddle
Notes: The pass is between Scott Hill and Tri-County Peak. It borders the Park City Mountain Ski Resort. This pass was used as an alternative route into Big Cottonwood Canyon, before the road up Big Cottonwood was well developed.
Destination: Scott Hill
 Elevation: 10116 Feature: Peak
Notes: Named for the Scott Mine that was located on the hill. The miners named Scott were not around long, but the name stuck. It is been a point of reference in Big Cottonwood Canyon.(from The Lady In The Ore Bucket by Charles Keller)


Scott Hill from Scott Pass TH (more steep, less mountain bikes)
 Hike Time (roundtrip): 2.0 to 3.0 hours
 Distance (roundtrip): 3.2 miles
 Elevation Gain: 1006 feet
Main Aspect: West
 Climb Rate: 629 feet per mile
 Average Grade: 12%
Notes: Bypass some of the mountain biking traffic by starting at this trailhead instead of Guardsman Pass.
Trailhead: Scott Pass TH
Trailhead Elevation: 9110 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: Yes
Distance from Park-N-Ride: 16.0 miles
Area: Big Cottonwood Canyon
Area Location: East on 7200 S (SR190) in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: Park along the road at the last switchback before Guardsman Pass. There is an outhouse hidden in the trees down the dirt road a bit.
Destination: Scott Hill
 Elevation: 10116 Feature: Peak
Notes: Named for the Scott Mine that was located on the hill. The miners named Scott were not around long, but the name stuck. It is been a point of reference in Big Cottonwood Canyon.(from The Lady In The Ore Bucket by Charles Keller)

Pipeline Trail

The Pipeline Trail follows the contours of most of the lower part of Mill Creek Canyon. It is popular with hikers, runners and mountain bikers. I even saw evidence of horses on the trail.

Four trailheads access it:
 Burch Hollow Trailhead  5.0 to 8.0 hrs 14 miles 740 feet South
 Church Fork Trailhead 5.0 to 8.0 hrs 14 miles 840 feet South
 Mount Aire Trailhead 4.5 to 7.0 hrs 14 miles 120 feet South
 Rattlesnake Gulch Trailhead 5.0 to 8.5 hrs 14 miles 1450 feet South

Park Discovery

On a hill just above Cedar City stands an assembly of wooden towers, mazes, slides, dinosaur digs, play volcanoes and rocket ships. This is Park Discovery, a fun, educational place where kids of all ages can learn and play. Concepts from over 4,000 local kids where integrated into the design concept of the park. Along with educational play elements, there’s an outdoor classroom, stage area, a separate play area for toddlers, handicap accessible ramps and swings and a ¾ paved walking trail that surrounds the park.  To get to Park Discovery head west on Cross Hollow Road (I-15 Exit #57) to Royal Hunte Dr., turn right and go all the way to the top of the hill.  On the left hand side you will see the Park Discovery next to the Iron County School District building.  Park Discovery is open year round, weather permitting, every day from sun up to sun down.  FREE. For more information call (435) 865-9223.

Old Irontown

Old Iron Town, located about 25 miles west of Cedar City, tells the incredible story of southern Utah’s historic mining industry.  During the 1850’s, Mormon pioneer leader Brigham Young sent several families to the Cedar City area to establish an iron works.  During the 1870’s, Iron City (Old Iron Town) was established as Iron County’s second attempt at mining iron.  The establishment had a schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, a foundry and charcoal kiln.  While Iron City seemed prosperous at the time, it only operated for seven years, closing due to the lack of sufficient transportation for the iron ore and the money panic of 1874.

While visiting the park, one can tour the ruins of the iron works and a preserved beehive shaped charcoal oven and stroll along the nature trail.  Before embarking on your journey to Old Iron Town, visitors are strongly encouraged to first stop by the Frontier Homestead State Park Museum in Cedar City to obtain a better understanding of the area and to pick up a self guided tour brochure.

Hiking
There are two easy hikes through the Old Iron Town ruins. Also, several hiking trails can be found in the nearby Pine Valley section of Dixie National Forest.  A list of Pine Valley hikes can be found at  www.fs.fed.us/r4/dixie

Old Iron Town Ruins
A short ¼ mile trail with interpretive plaques describing the significance of the ruins including the kiln, furnace and foundry area and the Erastra (grinding stone).

Nature Trail
A short ¼ mile trail that includes information about the area’s vegetation and leads to the remnants of a pioneer cabin.

Fishing
Newcastle Reservoir is just 10 miles west of Old Iron Town along Hwy 56 (follow the signs). The lake is stocked with trout and bass. There is also unimproved camping areas and a boat ramp.

Mountain Meadow Historic Site
An interesting side trip for history buffs. Mountain Meadows is a memorial site for a massacre that occurred on September 11, 1857 between The Fancher Party Wagon Train and local settlers.  To get there, head west on Hwy 56 to Hwy 18 and proceed south on Hwy 18 for about 10 miles to the site.

Getting There
From Cedar City head west on Hwy U-56 for approximately 20 miles. Turn south onto Old Iron Town Rd. Travel this gravel road for approximately five miles to the ruins located on the left hand side.
Distance From Cedar City
25 miles

Entrance Fees
Free. Open all year, daylight hours only.

Season/ Operation Hours
Old Iron Town is open year-round but use caution getting there in the winter months. Old Irontown is only open to the public during daylight hours.  No staff are on the premises.

Camping
Old Iron Town has restrooms and a small, covered picnic area. There are no campgrounds however, primitive camping is available at Newcastle Reservoir further west and developed campgrounds are available in Cedar City.

More Info

Frontier Homestead State Park Museum
635 N. Main
Cedar City, UT 84720
435-586-9290
www.frontierhomestead.org

Mill Canyon Peak

Mill Canyon Peak from Mill Canyon Peak TH
 Hike Time (roundtrip): 3.5 to 6.5 hours
 Distance (roundtrip): 8.4 miles
 Elevation Gain: 2029 feet
Main Aspect: Southwest
 Climb Rate: 483 feet per mile
 Average Grade: 9%
Notes: If you’re looking for an easy hike with no exposure and a big payoff, this is the hike for you.

Trailhead: Mill Canyon Peak TH
Trailhead Elevation: 8320 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No
Distance from Fee Station: 16.5 miles
Area: Alpine Loop / Timpanogos
Area Location: Starts in American Fork Canyon or Provo Canyon
Area Fee: $6
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Notes: FR180 is a forest rd that takes off to the north from the Cascade Springs road (Alpine Loop). Follow it up until you see the trailhead sign.

Destination: Mill Canyon Peak
 Elevation: 10349 Feature: Peak
Notes: At the peak you can see Heber Valley, Deer Creek, Cascade Peak, Mt Nebo, Mt. Timpanogos, Box Elder Peak, Lone Peak, the Alpine ridge, Red and White Baldy, Hidden Peak with the Snowbird Tram and Mineral Basin.

Mount Evergreen

Mount Evergreen from Silver Lake TH via Twin Lakes
 Hike Time (roundtrip): 2.0 to 3.0 hours
 Distance (roundtrip): 3.2 miles
 Elevation Gain: 890 feet
Main Aspect: Southeast
 Climb Rate: 556 feet per mile
 Average Grade: 11%
Notes: Follow the trail from Silver Lake to Twin Lakes, then along the north side of the lake to the saddle. For a loop, head down toward Lake Solitude then back to Silver Lake.

Trailhead: Silver Lake TH
Trailhead Elevation: 8730 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: Yes
Distance from Park-N-Ride: 14.4 miles
Area: Big Cottonwood Canyon
Area Location: East on 7200 S (SR190) in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: The Solitude Nordic Center becomes the Silver Lake visitors center in the summer. There is full facilities and information inside. The center also has picnic tables in the vicinity. The trail starts behind the visitors center

Waypoint 1: Silver Lake
 Elevation: 8730 Feature: Lake
Notes: Follow the boardwalk around half the lake, where you can fish or watch ducks. This hike is perfect for families with really young children. Its located in the Brighton area of Big Cottonwood Canyon.

Waypoint 2: Twin Lakes
 Elevation: 9460 Feature: Lake
Notes: Twin Lakes is a reservoir about twice as big as Silver Lake and is surrounded by several peaks.

Destination: Mount Evergreen
 Elevation: 9620 Feature: Peak
Notes: The peak sits between Twin Lakes and Lake Solitude, and is a lot easier to climb than some of its neighbors.

Jupiter Hill

Jupiter Hill from Guardsmans Pass TH via Tri-County Peak
 Hike Time (roundtrip): 1.5 to 2.0 hours
 Distance (roundtrip): 2 miles
 Elevation Gain: 508 feet
Main Aspect: South
 Climb Rate: 508 feet per mile
 Average Grade: 10%
Notes: The trail is short and not too difficult. Drive a few hundred feet past Guardsman Pass. Follow an old road to the top.

Trailhead: Guardsmans Pass TH
Trailhead Elevation: 9490 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No
Distance from Park-N-Ride: 17.1 miles
Area: Big Cottonwood Canyon
Area Location: East on 7200 S (SR190) in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: The Guardsman Pass road turns off the Big Cottonwood Canyon Rd just before you get to Brighton. Follow the road to the summit. The parking area is usually crowded. This is also the start of the Wasatch Crest trail for mountain bikers.

Waypoint 1: Tri-County Peak
 Elevation: 10026 AKA: Guardsmans Pass Peak
 Feature: Peak
Notes: I first climbed this peak in the winter, on snowshoes. I didn’t see anyone the whole way up from where they close the Guardsmans Pass road in the winter. Once on the peak, I kept hearing voices. When I looked over the north edge I saw a Park City ski lift about 50 feet away – it made me chuckle.

Destination: Jupiter Hill
 Elevation: 9998 AKA: Guardsmans Pass Peak
 Feature: Peak
Notes: It can be seen from Park City. It is part of the Park City Mountain Ski Resort.

Great Western Trail

Great Western Trail AF Canyon from Timpooneke GWT to Ant Knolls
 Hike Time: 11.0 to 19.0 hours
 Distance: 13.2 miles
 Elevation Gain: 5803 feet
Main Aspect: All Directions
 Climb Rate: 440 feet per mile
 Average Grade: 8%
Notes: As the Great Western Trail heads north from here, you pass Mill Canyon Peak, Forest Lake, Sandy Baker Pass, Poleline Pass and the Ant Knolls.

Trailhead: Timpooneke GWT
 Trailhead Elevation: 7360 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: Yes
Distance from Fee Station: 8.4 miles
Area: Alpine Loop / Timpanogos
Area Location: Starts in American Fork Canyon or Provo Canyon
Area Fee: $6
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Notes: The Great Western Trail passes the Timpooneke area, and shares a trailhead with Mount Timpanogos.

Waypoint 1: Mill Canyon Peak
 Elevation: 10349 Feature: Peak
Notes: At the peak you can see Heber Valley, Deer Creek, Cascade Peak, Mt Nebo, Mt. Timpanogos, Box Elder Peak, Lone Peak, the Alpine ridge, Red and White Baldy, Hidden Peak with the Snowbird Tram and Mineral Basin.

Waypoint 2: Forest Lake
Elevation: 8500 Feature: Lake
Notes: The lake is much quieter than it was in years past, except for when motorcycles and ATVs ride through.

Waypoint 3: Ant Knolls
 Elevation: 9840 Feature: Peak
Notes: This is one of the many highpoints along the Great Western Trail. As with any highpoint in this area, it has great views of surrounding mountains.

**Can easily continue on with this next section of trail:

Great Western Trail Cottonwoods from Pole Line Pass TH to Clayton Peak
 Hike Time: 8.0 to 13.5 hours
 Distance: 8.5 miles
 Elevation Gain: 4760 feet
Main Aspect: All Directions
 Climb Rate: 560 feet per mile
 Average Grade: 11%
Notes: The Great Western Trail leaves American Fork Canyon in this section and travels past both Cottonwood Canyons.

Trailhead: Pole Line Pass TH
Trailhead Elevation: 8730 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No
Distance from Fee Station: 15.4 miles
Area: American Fork Canyon
Area Location: East on Timpanogos Hwy (SR92), exit 284 in Utah County
Area Fee: $6
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Notes: Follow the Tibble Fork dirt road past Dutchman Flat. Take the right fork at the Cascade Springs junction and follow it to the summit

Waypoint 1: Ant Knolls
 Elevation: 9840 Feature: Peak
Notes: This is one of the many highpoints along the Great Western Trail. As with any highpoint in this area, it has great views of surrounding mountains.

Waypoint 2: Sunset Peak
Elevation: 10648 Feature: Peak
Notes: This is one of the easiest peak hikes in the Wasatch. It takes about an hour from the Alta side and about an hour and a half from Brighton. You can see Big Cottonwood, Little Cottonwood and Snake Creek drainages from here. This is a good family hike for families with older children.

Waypoint 3: Pioneer Peak
 Elevation: 10440 Feature: Peak
Notes: Lots of people get to Pioneer Peaks neighbor, Sunset Peak. Very few venture over to this peak. It sits above Lake Catherine and Dog Lake.

Waypoint 4: Preston Peak
 Elevation: 10285 Feature: Peak
Notes: Preston Peak is on the ridge between Pioneer Peak and Clayton Peak. There is a plaque on the highest rock telling you where you are.

Waypoint 5: Snake Creek Pass
Elevation: 10080 Feature: Saddle
Notes: The pass is near the top of the Brighton Ski Resort runs. From here, you can continue on to Clayton Peak.

Waypoint 6: Clayton Peak
 Elevation: 10721 AKA: Mount Majestic
 Feature: Peak
Notes: Clayton Peak (Mt Majestic) is the east boundary of Brighton Ski Resort. The peak towers over upper Big Cottonwood Canyon to the west and Bonanza Flat to the east.

Desolation Lake

Destination: Desolation Lake
 Elevation: 9240 AKA: Ninety Nine 90
 Feature: Lake
Notes: It is a large mountain lake, with no apparent outlet. Many trails lead to here, including the long distance Desolation Trail.

There are four different trails you can use:

Desolation Lake from Willow Heights TH
 Hike Time (roundtrip): 4.0 to 6.5 hours
 Distance (roundtrip): 9.8 miles
 Elevation Gain: 1420 feet
Main Aspect: Southwest
 Climb Rate: 290 feet per mile
 Average Grade: 5%
Notes: This trail features 2 lakes and 2 peaks, as you walk down the ridge that separates Big Cottonwood Canyon from Park City.
Trailhead: Willow Heights TH
Trailhead Elevation: 7820 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No
Distance from Park-N-Ride: 11.5 miles
Area: Big Cottonwood Canyon
Area Location: East on 7200 S (SR190) in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: The trailhead is on the north side of the road. Look for a large rock with a plaque on it. There is not much parking.
Waypoint 1: Willow Lake
 Elevation: 8480 AKA: Willow Heights
 Feature: Lake
Notes: Willow Heights is a basin with Willow Lake and gentle terrain. A great hike for the family, or snow shoe in the winter. Follow the trail northeast from the lake to find the secluded Dry Lake.
Waypoint 2: Silver Peak
 Elevation: 10002 AKA: Silver Benchmark
 Feature: Peak
Notes: It is at the top of the ridge separating Willow Fork and Beartrap Fork.
Waypoint 3: Desolation Peak
 Elevation: 9990 AKA: Ninety Nine 90
 Feature: Peak
Notes: The peak looks down on Desolation Lake, but also provides great 360 degree views. The Wasatch Crest trail goes below its base, so it is likely you will see mountain bikers, especially on odd days of the month when bikers are allowed in upper Mill Creek.


Desolation Lake from Mill D North Fork TH
 Hike Time (roundtrip): 3.5 to 6.0 hours
 Distance (roundtrip): 7.2 miles
 Elevation Gain: 1940 feet
Main Aspect: South
 Climb Rate: 539 feet per mile
 Average Grade: 10%
Notes: This is the standard route to Desolation Lake. Take the right fork when you come to the Dog Lake junction.
Trailhead: Mill D North Fork TH
 Trailhead Elevation: 7300 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: Yes
Distance from Park-N-Ride: 9.0 miles
Area: Big Cottonwood Canyon
Area Location: East on 7200 S (SR190) in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: There is great parking at Mill D, both sides of the road, and an outhouse. The Mill D North Fork trailhead is on the west end of the north parking lot.


Desolation Lake from Beartrap Fork TH
via Beartrap Fork
 Hike Time (roundtrip): 3.5 to 5.5 hours
 Distance (roundtrip): 6.4 miles
 Elevation Gain: 1680 feet
Main Aspect: Southwest
 Climb Rate: 525 feet per mile
 Average Grade: 10%
Notes: This trail is the shortest way to Desolation Lake from a road. You come very close to Desolation Peak, so you might as well hit it too while you’re in the neighborhood.
Trailhead: Beartrap Fork TH
Trailhead Elevation: 7560 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No
Distance from Park-N-Ride: 10.7 miles
Area: Big Cottonwood Canyon
Area Location: East on 7200 S (SR190) in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: The trailhead is somewhat difficult to find. Look for the gate in the picture on the northeast side of the road. There is really no parking area, just park along the road near the gate.
Waypoint 1: Beartrap Fork
 Elevation: 9500 Feature: Canyon
Notes: This trail is not used much and is the shortest route to Desolation Peak and Desolation Lake.


Desolation Lake from Little Water TH
 Hike Time (roundtrip): 4.0 to 6.0 hours
 Distance (roundtrip): 8.4 miles
 Elevation Gain: 1610 feet
Main Aspect: North
 Climb Rate: 383 feet per mile
 Average Grade: 7%
Notes: Its a steady climb to Desolation Lake, except for the downhill part after Dog Lake.
Trailhead: Little Water TH
Trailhead Elevation: 7630 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: Yes
Distance from Fee Station: 8.5 miles
Area: Mill Creek Canyon
Area Location: East on 3800 S in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: $3
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Notes: This trailhead is at the end of the Mill Creek Canyon road. It shares a parking lot with Big Water Gulgh TH NOTE: The Mill Canyon road is closed east of Maple Cove Campground November 1st to July 1st, so this trailhead is only accessible by non-motorized methods during those months.
Waypoint 1: Dog Lake
 Elevation: 8780 AKA: Reynolds Dog Lake
 Feature: Lake
Notes: The lake is a popular destination from Mill Creek or Big Cottonwood Canyons. It sits under Reynolds Peak and Little Water Peak. You might see many mountain bikers on even numbered days of the month, when they are allowed on trails in Mill Creek Canyon.

Bonneville Shoreline Trail

Destination: Bonneville Shoreline Trail
 Elevation: 5240  Feature: Trail-Nature
Notes: The hike is great for early season when your itching to get out, or anytime you want to hike something close. It can be accessed from 3 trailheads, Hidden Valley Park on the north, Orson Smith Park in the middle and East Bench trailhead on the south.

Bonneville Shoreline Trail from East Bench TH
 Hike Time (roundtrip): 2.5 to 3.5 hours
 Distance (roundtrip): 6.4 miles
 Elevation Gain: 105 feet Main Aspect: West
 Climb Rate: 33 feet per mile
 Average Grade: 1%
Notes: The Bonneville Shoreline trail remains fairly level the whole hike as it follows the ancient beach. The southern end is more dry and the northern end travels through a canopy of trees. There are a couple of beautiful bridge crossings.
Trailhead: East Bench TH
Trailhead Elevation: 5135 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: Yes
Area: Salt Lake Valley
Area Location: Various locations on East Bench in Salt Lake
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: This trailhead is on the Corner Canyon dirt road in southeast Draper. The dirt road is access near the Orson Smith Park.

Bonneville Shoreline Trail from Hidden Valley TH
 Hike Time (roundtrip): 2.5 to 3.5 hours
 Distance (roundtrip): 6.4 miles
 Elevation Gain: 120 feet Main Aspect: West
 Climb Rate: 38 feet per mile
 Average Grade: 1%
Notes: The Bonneville Shoreline trail remains fairly level the whole hike as it follows the ancient beach. The southern end is more dry and the northern end travels through a canopy of trees. There are a couple of beautiful bridge crossings.
Trailhead: Hidden Valley TH
Trailhead Elevation: 5120 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: Yes
Area: Salt Lake Valley
Area Location: Various locations on East Bench in Salt Lake
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: The trailhead is just south of a church near 2800 E. Wasatch Blvd, in the Hidden Valley Park. NOTE: Dogs are not allowed between here and the Orson Smith trailhead, it is a designated watershed area. Please respect the law, so the area can remain opened.

Bonneville Shoreline Trail from Orson Smith TH
 Hike Time (roundtrip): 2.5 to 4.0 hours
 Distance (roundtrip): 6.4 miles
 Elevation Gain: 450 feet Main Aspect: West
 Climb Rate: 141 feet per mile
 Average Grade: 3%
Notes: The Bonneville Shoreline trail remains fairly level the whole hike as it follows the ancient beach. There are a couple of beautiful bridge crossings.
Trailhead: Orson Smith TH
Trailhead Elevation: 4790 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: Yes
Area: Salt Lake Valley
Area Location: Various locations on East Bench in Salt Lake
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: This trailhead is located at 12601 South Highland Dr. The city of Draper has built some nice facilities. The trail is left of the restroom. NOTE: Dogs are not allowed between here and the Hidden Valley trailhead, it is a designated watershed area. Please respect the law, so the area can remain opened.

Vermillion Castle Trail

Vermillion Castle Trail #32004

1.4 mi RT
 
The trail immediately into a series of switch backs through scrub oak, pinyon, juniper, and ponderosa. The trail keeps working to a rim overlooking the road and Vermillion Castle Campground. Rock formations are on the rim and are composed of conglomerates and sandstone. Trail climbs steeply through grotesque rock formations before working to a ridge spine. The trail works up ridge spine below a massive red rock cliff. The trail then crosses a sidehill of pinyon/juniper until it comes out to a large flat rock platform looking directly into Vermillion Castle and across the canyon to Noah’s Ark. The view is breathtaking.

Directions:
From Cedar City, travel north on I-15, 18 miles to Parowan. From Parowan, take State Road #143 south, approximately 3 miles to FR #049 in First Left Hand Canyon. Follow #049 beyond Vermillion Campground entrance, 200 yards. Trailhead is on north side of road at an elevation of 7,000 feet.

Children's Forest and Leeds Kiln

Difficulty: Easy
Length: 0.4 miles / 0.6 km
Duration: 1 hour or less
Family Friendly • Dog Friendly

Overview: This is a forest. A pygmy forest. It is also a children's forest. Descriptive signs were written and drawn by children for children.

This wonderful historical educational trail is a great activity for families. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy an afternoon of exploration, education and history.

Tips: No Restrooms
No Potable Water supply
A picnic table and park benches exist along the trail.

Although designed for children be mindful that this area is wild habitat and as such can contain wildlife. Rattlesnakes live in this type of terrain so keep children close.

Leeds Creek can contain fast moving water at times.

Parking and Trailhead
Traveling south on I15 take exit 23 (Leeds, UT) and turn right onto Silver Reef Road.

Traveling north on I15 take exit 22 (Leeds, UT) and travel north through town (Main Street) to Silver Reef Road (I15 entrance for northbound travel).

Follow Silver Reef Road through the several subdivisions. Silver Reef Road turns to the south. Stay on the main road headed west which becomes Oak Grove Rd. After passing a final subdivision, the road drops into a creek bed, and turns to gravel. A Dixie National Forest Sign is seen and a few hundred yards further is an information board.

Continue to the "Y" turn right and follow the signs for Oak Grove Campground. Shortly after the road crosses over Leeds Creek, look for a parking area on your right hand side.


Just a few miles up a dirt road near Leeds lies a small forest treasure built especially for children — although grown-ups will find it a real treat, as well.

The Children's Forest near Leeds features a charming stroll through nature and a historic kiln, Leeds, Utah, Sept. 7, 2015 | Photo by Julie Applegate, St. George News
The Children’s Forest near Leeds features a charming stroll through nature and a historic kiln, Leeds, Utah, Sept. 7, 2015 | Photo by Julie Applegate, St. George News
The Children’s Forest at the Kiln offers a charming experience for all.

An easy half-mile trail winds through terrain featuring a variety of plants, shrubs and trees, including Gambel oak, juniper, sagebrush, manzanita, cactus, live oak, cottonwood trees and many others.

Interpretive signs created by children dot the landscape.

The welcoming white gravel trail leads through trees, shrubs and flowers, eventually ending up at the Leeds Creek and the historic Leeds Creek Kiln.

Leeds Creek Kiln

The kiln is built of sandstone blocks and mud mortar. The beehive-shaped oven measures 20 feet in diameter at its base and stands 25 feet high.

The Roman arch entryway was sealed with a metal door, and the upper entry on the opposite side was used to fill the kiln with wood. Small openings around the base of the kiln were used to regulate air circulation to the fire.

According to the Washington County Historical Society, local legend has it that the Leeds Creek Kiln was designed and built around 1885 by Italian stone masons and silver miners. The Roman arch-style entryway and the kiln’s location west of Italian Wash give credence to the legend.

The Children's Forest near Leeds features a charming stroll through nature and a historic kiln, Leeds, Utah, Sept. 7, 2015 | Photo by Julie Applegate, St. George News
The Children’s Forest near Leeds features a charming stroll through nature and a historic kiln, Leeds, Utah, Sept. 7, 2015 | Photo by Julie Applegate, St. George News
The kiln supported the mining operations for the Silver Reef Mining Area and was used to make charcoal from the surrounding oak and juniper forest. Loggers worked the nearby slopes of the Pine Valley Mountains to provide pinyon pine and scrub oak to fill the kiln.

The wood was set on fire and allowed to smolder until the logs became charcoal.

Teamsters would then unload the charcoal logs through the main entryway and haul the logs on wagons to the smelter at Silver Reef. The charcoal kept the smelter at a constant temperature for removing silver from sandstone.

According to the Washington County Historical Society, families from Leeds helped restore the kiln in the 1990s.

The trail was developed by the Zion Partners, of Partners in Parks, in association with the Utah Native Plant Society and the U.S. Forest Service.

Directions

From Interstate 15, take Exit 23 or 24 to Main Street in Leeds. From Main Street, turn west on Silver Reef Road. Wind through Leeds until the road turns into Oak Grove Road. After you pass the last houses, the road crosses a creek bed and turns to gravel.

Continue to the “Y” intersection, and follow the signs toward Oak Grove Campground. Soon after the intersection, the road crosses another creek, so look for a sign and parking area on the right.

Canal Trail (Pine Valley)

Trail: Canal Trail

Location: Pine Valley Recreation Area

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Length: Varying lengths (4, 7, 8, or 16 miles) depending on desired hike and whether a shuttle vehicle is included in the planning.

Average Time: 2 hours

Family friendly: Yes, it is mostly slightly downhill

Access: From St. George, drive north on Highway 18 for approximately 23 miles until you reach Central. Turn right on Forest Highway 35 toward Pine Valley. The entire Canal Trail ends at the Pine Valley Cemetery, so this is your first option for dropping off a shuttle vehicle. This would allow for an 8-mile hike from the Canal Trail trailhead to the cemetery. For this option, just before FR 35 curves to the right to take you into Pine Valley, continue straight on Hwy 920 less than a quarter-mile to the cemetery (if you cross Forsyth Creek on FR 35, you just missed Hwy 920). Then get back on FR 35 into Pine Valley. Take a left on Main Street in Pine Valley, and it’s another 3 miles to the Pine Valley Recreation Area.

The fee to enter the recreation area is $4 per car, but if you tell them you are just day hiking, they will usually let you in for no charge. If you have more than one vehicle and are looking for a 4-mile hike, you can park your shuttle vehicle at the Gardner Peak trailhead which is on the left just past the entrance station. Then follow the main road all the way to where it ends at the campground. The Canal Trail trailhead is on the north side of the campground parking lot.

The trail: The Canal Trail has some interesting historical significance. In 1914, a group of Utahns organized The New Castle Reclamation Company to develop a farming area in the New Castle area. They planned to take water from the Pine Valley Canyon streams and build a canal around the mountains to a reservoir they created in Grass Valley which is over the mountain to the north from Pine Valley. Immigrant workers from fourteen different nations—including China, Japan, Italy and Germany—were employed to work on the project. Sadly, the investors went bankrupt before it could be completed.

The Canal Trail runs along and sometimes down in the remnants of this canal. If you start at the end of the road at the campground, the trail is mostly slightly downhill. Due to the elevation of Pine Valley, which is 6519 ft., the Canal Trail is a great summer hike as it is significantly cooler than the St. George area. From some spots along the trail, you can enjoy the scenic view down onto the town and across the entire valley. Off to your right, you can catch glimpses of Gardner Peak towering above you.


At approximately 3.7 miles, there is a fork in the trail. If you take the trail to the left—which is part of the Gardner Peak Trail—it will lead you down a little over a quarter-mile to the Gardner Peak trailhead, where you can either pick up your shuttle vehicle or cross the road at the Gardner Peak trailhead and following the paved Santa Clara River Walkway back up to your car at the Canal Trail trailhead. This latter route will add approximately 3 miles to your hike. If you continue on the Canal Trail for approximately 4 more miles, you would come out at the cemetery, at which point you can either pick up your shuttle vehicle or turn around for the 8-mile return.

Snow Canyon Overlook

Trail: Snow Canyon Overlook

Location: Red Mountain Wilderness

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 4.54-mile round trip

Average time: 1.5-2 hours

Elevation gain: 400 ft

Best time to go: Any evening in the spring

Directions: The Red Mountain trailhead has a large dirt parking lot with a restroom. From St. George, travel north on SR-18. The turnoff for the trailhead is 11.4 miles past Snow Canyon Parkway. There is a large sign showing where to turn.

The 18,700-acre Red Mountain Wilderness provides some amazing views close to St. George without the scrambling and high ledges typical of so many other hikes. A popular equestrian and hiking trail, it’s rare not to see at least one other person there. As this is the wilderness, the trails are not maintained or formally signed like they are in other sections of Red Cliffs. There are now two signs indicating the Red Mountain Trail and the Snow Canyon Overlook spur, but there are many unmarked side trails. People do get lost trying to find the overlook trail, but it’s pretty easy to find if you pay attention.

The trail is clearly marked from the parking lot. The first section of the trail is rocky, uneven, and fenced-in. You’ll come to a step-over gate at the wilderness boundary. Several trails branch off from this spot. You’ll be looking for the middle trail, which is the most worn. You’ll know you’ve picked the right one because you’ll soon see a sign indicating the Red Mountain Trail. The trail becomes dirt and is much more pleasant from this point on. Pinyon pines and junipers surround the trail, creating an enclosed forest experience that contrasts the open desert in St. George. Bright spots of color pop out of the trees where the claret cups and prickly pears are in bloom.

Just under two miles from the parking lot, you’ll reach the turnoff for the Snow Canyon Overlook Trail. The trail turnoff is clearly marked by a sign on the left side of the trail. The Snow Canyon Overlook Trail is pure sand. Thankfully, it’s only a half-mile long, so it goes by quickly. It’s also surrounded by thick carpets of truly amazing biological soil (cryptobiotic soil). Make sure to stop and take a closer look at the delicate towers and shapes created by the soil. These small formations are actually entire communities of organisms, like cyanobacteria, green algae, microfungi, and lichen. Up close, you can see the variety of color specked through the soil.

Once at the end of the trail, you’ll be greeted by a spectacular view of Snow Canyon. Make sure to go in the evening, when the golden hour lights up Snow Canyon and throws shadows across the rocks. The view is amazing during the day, but the evening light really takes it up a notch. During most of the hike back, you’ll see the Pine Valley Mountains, and it’s a beautiful view in the evening. Even on a day with an unimpressive sunset, the mountains turn a pretty purple, and the sand along the trail has a gorgeous glow.

Aspen Mirror Trail

This short but scenic trail brings you to Aspen Mirror Lake, a small mountain lake. The lake is surrounded by Aspen trees, making this a spectacular destination in the fall. Cameras are a must! Though the lake is not very large it is stocked with rainbow trout providing some fishing opportunities.

Directions: Directions from Cedar City -Take Highway 14 east for 29.5 miles. One-half mile after mile marker 29 turn left at the Aspen Mirror junction sign on FS Road # 30057. The trailhead is located at the end of the road. (Coming from the cabin, just past Duck Creek Village on the right)

Green Canyon

9.5 miles
easy to moderate
4% average grade
11% max grade
(right at the edge of Logan)

This route races through meadows and woods with views of a large cave, wildlife, in addition to beautiful cliffs and ridges. There are many fun sections where the trail drops through a dry stream bed that get pretty steep, but only for short sections.

The only drawback is the high volume of mountain bikers present on this trail, which means you need to yield a lot, even early in the morning on weekdays, but it's worth it.
Description
From the King Nature Park you can either hike up through the King Nature Park Singletrack or you can hike up the road and access the singletrack at the main parking lot before the winter gate (there are lots of other access points to the singletrack along the road up Green Canyon). The singletrack crosses the road several times but mostly stays in the woods and meadows closer to the walls of the canyon. Additionally, the trail crosses the dry streambed several times. Be prepared to get your feet wet after heavy rains.

There are many things to see, especially if you go in the early morning. The early morning light provides opportunities to see evidence of elk or deer sleeping in the meadows. There is also a large but shallow cave near the main camping area that you pass on the way - keep an eye out!

The grade is pretty well distributed and, therefore, there aren't many difficult or steep parts of this trail. However, this is still by no means a walk in the park. Most people will find it to be a challenge, but thoroughly enjoyable.