Big Cottonwood Canyon is in north-central Utah about 13 miles south of downtown Salt Lake City. It begins in Cottonwood Heights at the intersection of Wasatch Boulevard and UT 190. It heads east for 15 miles and ends in Brighton. Utah Highway 190 is a two-lane paved road suitable for all types of vehicles. Delays are possible in winter and snow tires or chains may be required November through April.
The byway treats visitors with beautiful mountain scenery as it climbs through thick stands of fir, aspen, Engelmann spruce, and lodgepole pine. Big Cottonwood Creek flows alongside the byway and will remain with you to the end. The byway is surrounded by two wilderness areas, Mount Olympus to the north and Twin Peaks to the south. Several scenic turnouts along the way provide breathtaking views into these two pristine mountain wilderness areas.
Wildlife observers will delight in the variety of species found along the byway. If you look closely, you may catch glimpses of elk or mule deer foraging among the woods. Moose also inhabit the region but are not seen as often. Other wildlife calling the area home are bobcats, mountain lions, coyotes, beavers, and the snowshoe hare. Birdwatchers will want to be looking for golden eagles, hawks, and a large variety of songbirds.
During warmer months, byway travelers enjoy picnicking, camping, hiking, and bicycling. At Birches Picnic Area you can see a water flume clinging to the canyon wall. Winter sport enthusiasts come to this area in search of snowmobiling, downhill skiing, and cross-country skiing. Those interested in hiking will find trails that wind deep into the surrounding wilderness areas. The Doughnut Falls Trail will take you to an unusual waterfall where the waters of Mill D South Fork tumble through a hole in the rock. Those interested in camping will find two along the byway. Spruces Campground has 97 campsites for tents and RVs. Redman Campground is set at an elevation of 8,300 feet and offers 38 sites.