In July 2026, Salt Lake County highlighted various summer trail opportunities and provided updates regarding new parking fees in the Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons. The implementation of Recreation Enhancement Act (REA) fees at select locations aims to fund trail maintenance, visitor safety, and resource protection.
New parking regulations were introduced by the U.S. Forest Service to encourage carpooling and mitigate increases in roadside parking. These fees apply to entire designated fee areas rather than just official parking lots, meaning roadside parking within a posted boundary requires a valid pass.
In Big Cottonwood Canyon, REA fee areas include Mill B / S-Curves and Donut Falls during the summer, Cardiff Fork and Silver Lake Recreation Complex year-round, and the Spruces Winter Trailhead during the winter. In Little Cottonwood Canyon, fee areas include the Grit Mill and White Pine trailheads year-round.
Available pass options for visitors include a $10 three-day pass, a $20 seven-day pass, a $60 Uinta-Wasatch-Cache Annual Pass, and an $80 America the Beautiful Pass. Passes can be purchased at select trailhead kiosks, through participating local vendors, at the Salt Lake Ranger District office, or online.
Regarding pet regulations, dogs are not permitted in the Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons because they are protected watersheds. In Mill Creek Canyon, dogs are allowed on-leash on even-numbered days and off-leash on odd-numbered days. Dogs are also permitted on-leash in recreation areas within the Southwest region of the County, such as Butterfield, Yellow Fork, and Rose Canyons.
Popular hiking destinations in the area include the Butterfield Trail System in the Oquirrh Mountains, which is suitable for hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers. Other notable locations include the Lake Blanche Trail, located within a REA fee area, and the Pipeline Trail in Mill Creek Canyon, which offers shaded paths suitable for hiking or mountain biking on even-numbered days.
Outdoor enthusiasts were encouraged to plan ahead, prepare for changing conditions, and respect trail closures. Small actions such as packing out trash and understanding parking requirements help ensure canyon resources remain preserved for future visitors.
