Millcreek Canyon Trails

Attention adventure dogs! A hike of a lifetime is waiting at the puptastic Millcreek Canyon, a gorgeous swath of the Wasatch National Forest found on the edge of Salt Lake City. Get lost in nature on a multitude of hiking trails that meander over varied terrain that includes forests, lakes, steep inclines, and high elevations that are not for the faint at heart. These trails can be hiked or biked, and many can be on the strenuous side, so pack up the gear and get ready for a trek!

While dogs are allowed at Millcreek Canyon, lucky pups who visit on odd-numbered days can explore the canyon trails off leash, though they do need to leash up in public areas like picnic spots, roads, housing and parking lots. On even-numbered days, dogs need to stay leashed everywhere. Regardless of when you decide to go, there's a lot to discover with your pooch! 

With 23 trails that range from 2 to 17 miles each, you can hike a mountain to the Desolation Overlook to get a pawtastic view of the Salt Lake City Valley, follow a stream to Gobbler's Knob along the shaded Bowman Fork Trail, or let your furry pal dip in the Dog Lake after a 3-mile journey through forests along the Big Water Trail. 

Throughout the Canyon, you'll find picnic areas that are open during the summer months, and picnic tables scattered about that make for puptastic resting spots to crack open your bottled water to share with your pup- be sure to bring enough for both of you! And if an afternoon isn't enough time to enjoy the Canyon, backcountry camping is allowed in Millcreek.

Be aware that dogs are prohibited in some areas, such as any watersheds and Big Cottonwood Canyon located south of Dog Lake. Watch for signage and carry a trail map with you, as service tends to cut out in the Canyon. 

Access to the Canyon costs $5 per day, paid upon your exit. Annual passes are also available for $50. If you love hiking in the winter, you'll be entering by foot as the gates to vehicles close from November 1st to late spring. Though free to enter in these colder months, you will be adding on to your hike, so keep that in mind when gauging your canine's exercise limits. Human restrooms are available, but scattered throughout this large area. For your pup, be sure to bring clean-up bags, and leave nothing behind. Leashes should be no longer than 6 feet in length, and off leash dogs should always be under voice control and leave wildlife alone.

For a truly furbulous day in the great outdoors, pack up your pup and head to the Millcreek Canyon Trails!