Little Cottonwood Canyon is 18 miles south of downtown Salt Lake City in north-central Utah. It begins at the junction of UT 209 and UT 210 and travels east to the road’s end, three miles east of Alta. The 12-mile route follows UT 210, which is a narrow two-lane paved road to Alta and thereafter is graveled. All types of vehicles can safely drive the byway. The paved portion is open year-round; the graveled section is closed November through May.
Little Cottonwood Canyon is a scenic journey through the narrow, sheer-walled canyon of Little Cottonwood Creek. Near the mouth of the canyon is a site where Mormon pioneers quarried huge granite blocks used to construct the Salt Lake Temple. Today, the canyon is used by those in pursuit of outdoor recreation. The area attracts downhill and cross-country skiers during winter and hikers, campers, and photographers during warmer months. A beautiful display of colorful wildflowers reward byway travelers that reach the end of the road.
Wildlife observers will want to be on the lookout for mule deer, elk, and moose. Golden eagles and hawks can sometimes be seen riding the wind currents above the canyon walls. If you decide to camp among the stars, hooting of the great horned owl may break the nighttime silence. During the day, numerous songbirds will be heard speaking to one another in a language known only to them. Other wildlife inhabiting the area but rarely seen includes coyotes, mountain lions, and bobcats.
For a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains and wilderness areas, be sure to take the Snowbird Tram to the top of 11,000-foot Hidden Peak. There are two wilderness areas along the byway. Twin Peaks Wilderness to the north protects 11,796 acres of the rugged landscape and separates Big Cottonwood Canyon from Little Cottonwood Canyon. To the south is 30,088-acre Lone Peak Wilderness. Both wilderness areas invite back country exploration for experienced hikers. Tanners Flat Campground has 36 sites suitable for tents and RVs. Albion Basin Campground is set 9,500 feet above sea level and has 21 campsites.