Millcreek Canyon
A scenic canyon near Salt Lake City offering diverse hiking trails, picnic spots, and dog-friendly adventures year-round.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful hikes
Millcreek Canyon
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful hikes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic canyon near Salt Lake City offering diverse hiking trails, picnic spots, and dog-friendly adventures year-round.
"One of our go-to hiking areas near SLC with trails of varying difficulty, perfect for families and dogs."
🐾 Dog Rules
Odd days = off-leash, even days = on-leash. Respect the rules for happy pups and hikers!
📶 Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable. Download maps before you go to navigate trails easily.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dog Lake Trail
Millcreek Canyon
A beloved moderate hike, perfect for families and dog lovers, with a beautiful alpine lake reward.
Salt Lake Overlook Trail
Millcreek Canyon
A rewarding 4.8-mile out-and-back trail offering stunning panoramic views of the Salt Lake Valley.
Fall Colors
Millcreek Canyon
Experience breathtaking autumn foliage painting the canyon walls in vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dog-Friendly Days & Crowds
Cell Service & Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog Rules
Odd days = off-leash, even days = on-leash. Respect the rules for happy pups and hikers!
📶 Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable. Download maps before you go to navigate trails easily.
💰 Canyon Entry Fee
A $5 fee per vehicle is collected on exit. It helps maintain this beautiful natural space.
🦟 Bug Spray is Key
Flies can be intense in mid-summer. Come prepared to protect yourself!
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog Rules
Odd days = off-leash, even days = on-leash. Respect the rules for happy pups and hikers!
📶 Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable. Download maps before you go to navigate trails easily.
💰 Canyon Entry Fee
A $5 fee per vehicle is collected on exit. It helps maintain this beautiful natural space.
🦟 Bug Spray is Key
Flies can be intense in mid-summer. Come prepared to protect yourself!
👟 Trail Shoes Recommended
Many trails are moderate to difficult. Sturdy footwear ensures a comfortable and safe hike.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Millcreek Canyon is a highly-rated natural escape near Salt Lake City, praised for its diverse hiking trails, dog-friendly policies, and stunning seasonal beauty, especially in the fall. While some visitors encounter crowds and biting insects during peak times, the well-maintained facilities and accessible nature make it a beloved local spot.
"We went during the fall season last year. It is a fun hike with plenty of beautiful views🫶 definitely worth it"
Tupou Moimoi
"Millcreek Canyon is one our our go-to hiking areas near SLC. There are trails of varying difficulty - most of which can be found on the All Trails app. Shortly after entering the canyon and passing the toll booth, you will likely lose cell service so plan accordingly. There are some campground restrooms throughout the canyon.
Dogs are allowed in the canyon. Odd numbered days are off leash days and even numbered days dogs must be on leash. Bikers are not allowed in the canyon on odd numbered days although you might still see them."
Claire Kapron
"My favorite hike is up to Dog Lake. I do it multiple times a year. Such a fun, beautiful hike. It’s moderately hard but my 3 boys can do it (13,10,6). Took us about 4 hours including stopping at the top by the lake for lunch. This last time we went (mid July) the flies were HORRIBLE! I have never experienced that before."
CALLI HAYMAN
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Millcreek Canyon is easily accessible from Salt Lake City. Take I-215 E to exit 6 for 3800 South and follow signs for Millcreek Canyon Road. The drive itself offers scenic views as you ascend into the canyon.
Currently, there is no direct public transportation service to Millcreek Canyon. Driving your own vehicle or using ride-sharing services are the primary options for reaching the canyon.
To avoid traffic, especially on weekends, aim to arrive early in the morning or consider visiting on a weekday. Weekends can get very busy, leading to parking challenges.
Yes, there are parking areas available at various trailheads and picnic spots throughout Millcreek Canyon. However, popular spots like Donut Falls can fill up quickly, so arriving early is advised.
Biking is permitted in Millcreek Canyon, but with restrictions. Bikers are not allowed on odd-numbered days, which are designated for dogs off-leash. On even-numbered days, biking is permitted.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a $5 fee per vehicle to enter Millcreek Canyon, which is collected on your way out. This fee helps maintain the canyon's facilities and trails.
Millcreek Canyon is generally open year-round from dawn until dusk. Specific facilities like restrooms may have limited hours, but the canyon itself is accessible for most of the day.
No, advance ticket booking is not required for Millcreek Canyon. The entry fee is paid upon exiting the canyon.
While there aren't specific discounts for Millcreek Canyon, annual passes for Salt Lake County parks might offer benefits for frequent visitors. It's best to check with Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation for current options.
The fee is collected on exit, and it's expected that all visitors will pay. Failure to do so may result in penalties or being asked to return and pay.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular trails include Dog Lake (moderate, great for dogs), Salt Lake Overlook (moderate, scenic views), and Desolation Trail (challenging, stunning fall colors). The All Trails app is a great resource for finding trails.
Yes, dogs are allowed! On odd-numbered days, they can be off-leash. On even-numbered days, they must be on a leash.
You might encounter deer, various bird species, and smaller mammals. Hiking further into the canyon increases your chances of spotting wildlife.
Yes, Millcreek Canyon offers several designated picnic areas with tables and grills, perfect for a family outing or a relaxing lunch amidst nature.
Absolutely! Trails like Dog Lake are manageable for children, and the picnic areas provide space for them to play. Just be mindful of trail difficulty and bring plenty of snacks and water.
📸 📸 Photography
The Salt Lake Overlook trail offers panoramic city views, while the Desolation Trail is renowned for its vibrant fall colors. The alpine lakes and forest scenery also provide excellent photo opportunities.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most flattering light for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but can work for capturing the vibrant greens of summer.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national forests and protected areas. It's advisable to check with the U.S. Forest Service for specific regulations regarding drone operation in Millcreek Canyon.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for landscapes and trails. A wide-angle lens can capture expansive views, and a telephoto lens is useful for wildlife. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
Beyond the landscapes, look for wildflowers in spring, the vibrant fall foliage, and the happy dogs enjoying their off-leash days on odd-numbered days.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Dog Owners
🏃♀️ Trail Runners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Millcreek Canyon Trails
When planning your hike, consider the difficulty and length. Trails range from easy strolls to strenuous climbs. The All Trails app is an invaluable tool for detailed trail information, including elevation gain, user reviews, and recent conditions. Always be prepared for changing weather conditions, even in summer, and carry essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. For those interested in trail running, Millcreek Canyon offers excellent routes, as highlighted by local runners.
Understanding Millcreek Canyon's Dog Policy
It's important to note that even on off-leash days, responsible pet ownership is paramount. This includes ensuring your dog is well-behaved, under voice control, and doesn't disturb other visitors or wildlife. Always carry waste bags to clean up after your pet. The canyon is well-equipped with trash cans and poop bag dispensers in many areas. The dog-friendly nature of Millcreek Canyon is frequently mentioned in social media content and user reviews, making it a top destination for those traveling with their furry friends.
Best Times for Fall Colors and Photography
For the best photographic opportunities, aim for the golden hours – shortly after sunrise and before sunset. During these times, the soft, warm light beautifully illuminates the canyon's landscapes and foliage. Midday can be harsh for photography, but it's still a great time to enjoy the scenery. Remember that cell service is limited, so download any necessary maps or apps beforehand. The canyon's natural beauty, from its alpine lakes to its sweeping vistas, provides endless inspiration for capturing memorable shots.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit