Description: This is the only trail up Big Cottonwood Canyon that allows OHVs, so be aware on this wide trail. After the sounds of the machines drift away, the canyon is peaceful and beautiful. About 1/2 mile into the hike, a waterfall shoots off the mountain and crosses the trail. With the smell of pine in the air, the trail makes a couple of zigzags up. Less than a mile in, the trail straightens and heads southeast through the forest. You cross the creek again at 1.5 miles, where the trail stays high and runs parallel to the creek. A meadow full of small aspens appears below and the trail opens toward a huge bowl. From the bowl, you see the mine above and to your left. You encounter a trail split at 2.6 miles, with both ways looping to the mine. Water flows out of the sealed mine and rushes toward the aspen meadow. You feel like you just struck gold as you take in the canyon view.

Directions: Drive 5.8 miles up Big Cottonwood Canyon and park along the right side of the highway. The trail is posted.

Photo, text and graphic by Steve Baker (baker@sltrib.com)

All hikes are listed at http://www.sltrib.com/outdoors.