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Big Willow Trail

Wasatch National Forest, Utah · 3 min read

Distance
7.4 mi
Elevation Gain
2,200 ft
Difficulty
moderate-hard
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
May through October
Est. Time
4-6 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
No
Difficulty Score
8 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Fee Required
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Quiet alternative to the more crowded upper Mill Creek Canyon trails
  • Alpine basin at the top provides a secluded rest area on an otherwise busy canyon
  • Good wildlife corridor with deer, moose, and fox sightings reported regularly
  • Dogs allowed on even-numbered calendar days, one of the few alpine-basin hikes with dog access
  • Fall color in the canyon aspens peaks in late September
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Overview

Big Willow is the least-known trail in Mill Creek Canyon and one of the more peaceful options in the Wasatch National Forest near Salt Lake City. The 7.4-mile out-and-back climbs 2,200 feet from the upper canyon to a quiet alpine basin, passing through aspen and fir forest with consistent creek access and good wildlife habitat throughout.

Mill Creek Canyon is known primarily for the Pipeline Trail (popular with mountain bikers) and Grandeur Peak. Big Willow sees a fraction of that traffic, which means solitude even on summer weekends when the more popular routes are crowded.

Dogs: Allowed in Mill Creek Canyon on even-numbered calendar days. The Big Willow Trail's access to an alpine basin with dogs on leash makes it especially popular among dog-hiking Salt Lake residents.

The Route

Miles 0 to 2: Lower canyon. The trail follows Big Willow Creek through dense aspen and cottonwood. Creek crossings are manageable most of the year. Moose have been spotted in the willow thickets.

Miles 2 to 3.5: Mid-canyon climb. The grade steepens as the trail enters fir forest and the creek becomes narrower. Views begin to open upcanyon.

Miles 3.5 to 3.7: Basin. The trail levels into a small alpine basin with meadows and a seasonal stream. A quiet spot for lunch with views back down the canyon.

When to Visit

May through October. Spring brings the highest water levels in the creek; fall color in the aspens peaks in late September, with brilliant gold throughout the lower canyon.

Practical Details

Fee at Mill Creek Canyon entrance station (as of 2026). Vault toilet at the upper trailhead parking area. For other Mill Creek Canyon options, see the Grandeur Peak Trail. The forest guide covers all Wasatch Front hiking areas.

Leave No Trace

This trail receives enough use that following Leave No Trace principles is important for preserving the experience for future visitors. Stay on the marked trail to prevent erosion. Pack out all waste. Avoid camping within 200 feet of water sources or the trail. Use existing fire rings only where campfires are permitted, and check current fire restrictions at checking conditions before you go before any visit. The trail and surrounding terrain remain in good condition because previous visitors have respected these norms.

Safety Considerations

The moderate-hard rating reflects the trail's general character under typical conditions. Weather, seasonal snow, and trail conditions can change the experience significantly. Carry the 10 Essentials on any full-day outing. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time before heading out, particularly on longer or more remote trails. Cell service varies throughout Wasatch National Forest and may be unreliable in canyon bottoms or remote terrain.

Trailhead Parking

Big Willow Trailhead near the end of Mill Creek Canyon Road, approximately 10 miles up the canyon. Fee day-use area. Dogs allowed on even-numbered calendar days.

← Back to Wasatch National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Big Willow Trail?
Big Willow is a 7.4-mile out-and-back with 2,200 feet of elevation gain. Most hikers take 4 to 6 hours round trip. The trail is less traveled than the main Mill Creek Canyon routes, providing a quieter experience.
Are dogs allowed on the Big Willow Trail?
Dogs are allowed in Mill Creek Canyon on even-numbered calendar days only. On odd-numbered days, the canyon is dogs-free throughout. This rule is strictly enforced by Salt Lake County.
Is there a fee at the Big Willow Trailhead?
Yes. Mill Creek Canyon charges a per-vehicle fee at the entrance station (as of 2026). The fee covers the entire canyon; there is no additional charge for the Big Willow Trailhead.
What wildlife is seen on the Big Willow Trail?
Mill Creek Canyon is productive wildlife habitat. Mule deer are commonly seen year-round. Moose have been reported in the willow thickets near the creek. Red fox and coyote are occasional sightings. Black bear activity is present; proper food storage is recommended if camping overnight.