Mill Creek Canyon
Mill Creek Canyon is managed by the U.S. Forest Service.
Salt Lake County has an agreement with the U.S. Forest Service and the County's Parks Office manages reservations at the canyon's 10 picnic group sites and mountain yurt.
The picnic areas, which are reservable from June through September, are located in three areas of the canyon: Church Fork, Box Elder and Terraces. There is no lighting or electricity available. Drinking water is available only at the Terraces Picnic Area.
- Church Fork Area --
Located 2.3 miles past the fee station on the left side. Has 2 group sites that may be reserved and several first come, first serve picnic tables. There is no drinking water available. Elevation starts at about 5,200 feet. - South Box Elder Picnic Area --
Located 2.6 miles past the fee station on the right side of the road. Has one group site that may be reserved and several picnic tables available on a first come, first serve basis. Next to the main canyon road. No drinking water is available. - Upper Box Elder Picnic Area --
Located 1/2 mile up on the left from South Box Elder Picnic Area. Has three group sites available for reservation or first come, first serve basis. Elevation is 5,500 feet. No drinking water is available. - Terraces Picnic Area --
Located 3.8 miles past the fee station on the right side of the road. Has four group sites that may be reserved. Spring water is available for drinking. Elevation is about 6000 feet. - Yurt --
Located at the Upper Big Water trailhead 4.5 miles past the winter gate at Maple Grove. Access by snowshoe or ski only on the Mill Creek ski trail. Operating season is December 1 through April 30. Elevation is 7,520 feet. You may view and download a flyer published by the U.S. Forest Service.
Picnic Areas
- Group sites may be reserved by contacting the Salt Lake County Park Operations Office.
- Fires are allowed in fire rings and grill stands unless fire restrictions are applicable.
- There are several picnic tables throughout the canyon that are available on a first come, first serve basis.
- All picnic areas are available during the summer months. They are open at 8 am and close at 10 pm.
- Visitors must carry out everything they bring in. "Pack it in Pack it out."
Camping
- Only backcountry camping is allowed in Mill Creek Canyon.
- Camping must be at least 1/2 mile off the road and 200 feet from developed areas and water.
Other
The winter gate, located just past the Maple Grove parking area, closes on November 1 and opens on July 1.
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