Little Cottonwood Creek Trail

The primary trailhead for this hike is the Temple Quarry trailhead, located near Salt Lake County, Utah. It offers convenient access to the initial, smoother sections of the path.

The specific route described, from Lisa Falls to Tanners Flat, is approximately 5.1 kilometers (3.2 miles) and typically takes around 1 hour and 36 minutes to complete. However, the full out-and-back trail can be up to 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) and will take longer depending on your pace.

The trail features a mix of dirt and rocky sections, including hard-packed surfaces and massive granite boulders. The first mile from the Temple Quarry trailhead is generally wide and smooth, but some parts become steeper and more rocky after the initial creek crossing. Good hiking boots are recommended, as you might encounter wet sections, especially in spring.

While some sections are considered easy and family-friendly, particularly the initial mile from the Temple Quarry trailhead, the trail is generally rated as medium difficulty. It's suitable for moderately experienced individuals, with some steeper and rockier parts further along. The komoot tour described is rated as 'easy'.

You'll be greeted by the soothing sounds of Little Cottonwood Creek. Notable features include the ruins of the old Wasatch Resort about 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) in, a series of small waterfalls around the 3-kilometer (1.9-mile) mark, and massive granite boulders, some still bearing chisel marks from pioneers. The trail also offers gorgeous canyon views and dense forests.

No, dogs are not allowed on the Little Cottonwood Creek Trail. This area is a critical protected watershed, and regulations prohibit dogs to maintain water quality.

The trail offers beauty year-round. Spring is ideal for vibrant wildflowers and particularly active waterfalls due to snowmelt. Late spring and early summer bring species like columbine and lupine. Mid-October is excellent for observing fall foliage. In winter, it's a popular spot for snowshoeing.

The Little Cottonwood Creek Trail is located within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. Generally, day-use permits or entrance fees are not required for hiking on this specific trail. However, it's always a good idea to check the official U.S. Forest Service website for any current regulations or advisories before your visit.

The Little Cottonwood Creek Trail is primarily an out-and-back route. You will hike to a certain point and then return along the same path.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Little Cottonwood Creek Trail, the Lisa Falls Trail, and the Upper Lisa Falls Trail.

You'll hike alongside Little Cottonwood Creek through dense forests of pine and aspen, providing ample shade. Expect to see small waterfalls and cascades, especially vibrant in spring. The area is rich in wildflowers in late spring/early summer and offers stunning fall foliage in mid-October. Common wildlife sightings include mule deer and various bird species.