LCC Winter Trail and Little Cottonwood Creek

Starting near Salt Lake County, Utah, the LCC Winter Trail and Little Cottonwood Creek loop spans approximately 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) with an elevation gain of around 200 meters (656 feet). This medium-difficulty trail offers a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and moderate physical challenge, making it a rewarding experience for hikers of various skill levels.

Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transportation. If driving, head towards the Little Cottonwood Canyon Park and Ride, located near 4323 Little Cottonwood Canyon Rd, Sandy, UT 84092. This is a convenient starting point with ample parking. For those using public transport, the Utah Transit Authority (UTA) offers bus services that stop near the park and ride, making it accessible for those without a car.

Trail Navigation For navigation, HiiKER is an excellent tool to use. It provides detailed maps and real-time updates to ensure you stay on track throughout your hike.

Trail Highlights As you embark on the trail, you'll initially follow a well-marked path that meanders through a picturesque forested area. The first kilometer (0.6 miles) is relatively flat, allowing you to ease into the hike while enjoying the serene surroundings. Keep an eye out for native wildlife such as mule deer and various bird species that inhabit the area.

Little Cottonwood Creek Around the 1.5-kilometer (0.9-mile) mark, you'll encounter Little Cottonwood Creek. This section of the trail runs parallel to the creek, offering soothing sounds of flowing water and opportunities to spot trout in the clear waters. The creek is particularly beautiful in the winter months when the surrounding trees are dusted with snow, creating a magical winter wonderland.

Elevation Gain As you continue, the trail begins to ascend more steeply. Over the next 2 kilometers (1.2 miles), you'll gain most of the 200 meters (656 feet) in elevation. This section can be challenging, especially in winter conditions, so be prepared with appropriate footwear and trekking poles if necessary. The effort is well worth it, as the higher elevation provides stunning views of the canyon and surrounding peaks.

Historical Significance The Little Cottonwood Canyon area is rich in history. In the mid-19th century, it was a significant site for silver mining, and remnants of this era can still be found along the trail. Look out for old mining equipment and structures that tell the story of the area's industrious past. The canyon also played a role in the construction of the Salt Lake Temple, with granite quarried from the area used in its construction.

Loop Completion As you near the end of the loop, the trail descends gradually, bringing you back towards the starting point. This final section is a great opportunity to cool down and reflect on the diverse landscapes and historical insights you've encountered. The entire loop takes around 2 to 3 hours to complete, depending on your pace and the time spent exploring the various points of interest.

Wildlife and Flora Throughout the hike, you'll be surrounded by a variety of flora, including Douglas fir, aspen, and cottonwood trees. In spring and summer, wildflowers such as columbine and Indian paintbrush add vibrant splashes of color to the landscape. Wildlife sightings are common, so keep your camera ready for potential encounters with animals like foxes, squirrels, and a variety of bird species.

This trail offers a well-rounded hiking experience with its mix of natural beauty, historical elements, and moderate physical challenge. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the LCC Winter Trail and Little Cottonwood Creek loop is a must-explore destination in the Salt Lake County area.