Big Water Trail runs through pleasant forests to a junction with Desolation Trail near popular Dog Lake. The trail is very popular with mountain bikers, though bikes are prohibited on odd numbered days. The trailhead is at the end of the Mill Creek drive.
Location:
In Millcreek Canyon just east of Salt Lake City
Length:
4.5 miles roundtrip
Difficulty:
Easy
Time:
2-3 hours
Elevation Change:
1160
Season:
June to October
Useful Map(s):
USGS Mount Aire Topo (1:24,000); USGS Salt Lake City Topo (1:100,000)
Basic Directions
From Downtown Salt Lake City, head south on either I-15, State Street or 700 East. After a few miles, get onto I-80 heading east and take it 4 or 5 miles to the I-215 Belt Route. Head south on the I-215 Belt Route for about 2 miles and exit at 3900 South. Take a left at the top of the exit ramp and cross over I-215 heading east. At Wasatch Boulevard, the first light, take a left and head north 1 block to the light at 3800 South. Take a right on 3800 South and head east. It will progress through a residential area before taking you up into the canyon. After about 1 mile, is an entrance station. (The attendant there will supply you with a simple map and answer any questions you might have.) The trailhead is 9 miles past the entrance station on both the north and south side of the road.
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