Emigration Canyon
A scenic canyon near Salt Lake City, famous for its vibrant fall colors, hiking trails, and iconic diners.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak fall colors
Emigration Canyon
Best Time
Peak fall colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic canyon near Salt Lake City, famous for its vibrant fall colors, hiking trails, and iconic diners.
"Emigration Canyon is a prime spot for fall foliage and offers great dining with stunning views."
🎯 Catch Peak Fall Colors
Visit early to mid-October for the most vibrant autumn foliage.
🍺 Patio Perfection
Emigration Brewing's patio is first-come, first-served; arrive early for the best seats.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vibrant Fall Foliage
Witness a breathtaking spectacle of reds, yellows, and oranges painting the canyon walls. A must-see autumn destination.
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Emigration Brewing Co.
4170 Emigration Canyon Road
Enjoy craft beers, cocktails, and elevated pub fare on a scenic patio overlooking a creek.
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Ruth's Diner
4160 Emigration Canyon Road
A legendary local diner famous for its complimentary hibiscus tea and charming patio.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Fall Colors
+1Navigating Canyon Traffic
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Catch Peak Fall Colors
Visit early to mid-October for the most vibrant autumn foliage.
🍺 Patio Perfection
Emigration Brewing's patio is first-come, first-served; arrive early for the best seats.
👟 Hit the Trails
Explore hikes like Little Mountain or Big Mountain for stunning canyon views.
🚗 Beat the Traffic
Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, especially if you're driving up for construction.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Catch Peak Fall Colors
Visit early to mid-October for the most vibrant autumn foliage.
🍺 Patio Perfection
Emigration Brewing's patio is first-come, first-served; arrive early for the best seats.
👟 Hit the Trails
Explore hikes like Little Mountain or Big Mountain for stunning canyon views.
🚗 Beat the Traffic
Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, especially if you're driving up for construction.
🏃♀️ Long Run Favorite
This canyon is a popular spot for long-distance runners training for marathons.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Emigration Canyon's stunning fall colors and its convenient proximity to Salt Lake City. The dining options, particularly Ruth's Diner and Emigration Brewing, are frequently praised for their atmosphere and food. Some note that traffic can be heavy, especially on weekends and during peak seasons.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Emigration Canyon is conveniently located just about 15 minutes east of downtown Salt Lake City. Take I-80 East and exit onto Foothill Drive, then follow signs for Emigration Canyon Road.
Parking can be limited, especially on weekends and during peak fall color season. Emigration Brewing and Ruth's Diner have shared parking lots.
Yes, biking is a popular activity in Emigration Canyon. Be aware of vehicle traffic, especially during peak hours.
The road is paved and generally well-maintained. However, it can be winding and steep in places. During winter, check road conditions as snow and ice can occur.
The main road is accessible for all standard vehicles. However, some trailheads might require higher clearance or 4WD for access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Emigration Canyon itself does not require an entry ticket. It's a public canyon road and recreational area.
Hiking trails within Emigration Canyon are generally free to access. There are no park entrance fees for the canyon itself.
Emigration Brewing typically serves brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am to 2 pm, and dinner Sunday through Thursday from 5 pm to 9 pm, and Friday-Saturday from 4 pm to 9 pm.
Ruth's Diner serves meals throughout the day, with specific hours for brunch and dinner. It's best to check their current schedule online.
Yes, Emigration Canyon is accessible year-round. However, winter conditions can make some trails and roads challenging.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the Little Mountain Trail (3.8 miles, 859 ft elevation gain) and the Big Mountain Trail (6.8 miles, 1,551 ft elevation gain). The Little Dell Reservoir also offers scenic views.
You might spot deer, various bird species, and other small mammals. Always maintain a safe distance and do not feed the wildlife.
Absolutely! The canyon offers stunning natural beauty, especially during the fall when the foliage is at its peak.
Restroom facilities are limited. You'll find them at some trailheads or at the dining establishments like Emigration Brewing and Ruth's Diner.
Cell service can be spotty in certain areas of the canyon. It's advisable to download offline maps or inform someone of your hiking plans.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The main dining options are Emigration Brewing Co. for craft beers and pub fare, and the iconic Ruth's Diner for classic American comfort food.
Emigration Brewing offers a selection of craft beers, cocktails, and elevated pub-style food. Their patio is a major draw.
Ruth's Diner is a historic Salt Lake City institution, famous for its complimentary mile-high hibiscus tea and its charming patio.
Yes, picnicking is a great option. There are several scenic spots where you can enjoy your own packed meal. Remember to pack out all trash.
Both Emigration Brewing and Ruth's Diner typically offer a variety of options that can accommodate vegetarian or vegan diets. It's best to check their menus directly.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While some of the longer hiking trails might be challenging for very young kids, shorter sections or the areas around the dining establishments offer space to explore. Pack snacks and drinks, as facilities can be limited. +1Consider visiting during the week to avoid larger crowds and make the experience more relaxed. The vibrant fall colors are also a huge hit with kids, offering a beautiful natural playground.
+1🏃♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
+1 The paved canyon road is also ideal for road cycling and offers a scenic route for endurance training. Be prepared for varying traffic conditions, especially during morning hours when construction vehicles are common.
🍂 Leaf Peepers & Photographers
+1 Numerous pull-offs along the road provide excellent vantage points for capturing the vibrant hues. Beyond the fall colors, the canyon's natural beauty offers year-round photographic opportunities. The scenic drives, hiking trails, and charming diners like Ruth's provide diverse subjects.
Remember to visit during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for the best light. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Embracing the Autumn Spectacle
+1To truly appreciate the fall colors, consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid the larger weekend crowds. The crisp autumn air and the rustling leaves create a serene atmosphere perfect for photography or a leisurely drive. Remember to check local foliage reports for the most accurate peak viewing times.
Beyond the visual feast, the fall season in Emigration Canyon offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature. The cooler temperatures make it ideal for hiking and exploring the trails, where you can immerse yourself in the autumnal beauty up close.
Culinary Delights in the Canyon
+1Ruth's Diner, a legendary Salt Lake City institution, is a must-visit for its classic American comfort food and its famous complimentary mile-high hibiscus tea. The diner boasts an impressive patio, often cited as one of the best in the state, providing a delightful setting for brunch or a meal.
+1Both establishments are popular, especially on weekends. For the best experience at Emigration Brewing's patio, arriving early is recommended. For Ruth's Diner, be prepared for potential waits, but the classic diner experience is well worth it.
+1Outdoor Adventures Await
More ambitious hikers can tackle the Big Mountain Trail, a more challenging 6.8-mile trek with a significant 1,551-foot elevation gain. This trail is favored by runners training for longer distances, highlighting its suitability for endurance activities.
+1Beyond hiking, the canyon is a fantastic location for long runs and biking. The paved road winds through the scenic landscape, and various trailheads offer access to more rugged terrain. Remember to be aware of vehicle traffic, especially during peak hours, and always carry water and appropriate gear.
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