Happy trails

MILLCREEK CANYON — As the summer temperatures continue to sizzle along the Wasatch Front, it seems like everyone and their dog have headed for the hills.

On July 1, Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation opened the upper road of Millcreek Canyon, allowing access to the most popular hiking and biking trails the canyon has to offer.

County worker Kevin Pugmire monitors the entrance to the canyon and sees it all.

"We're swamped right now," he said. "But it's a wonderful time to come up the canyon since the temperature is about 10 degrees cooler."

With a constant flow of hikers, mountain bikers, dog walkers, campers and fishermen, the canyon seems to be ideal refuge from the summer heat.

The canyon is not a watershed, so dogs are allowed but must be leashed on even-numbered days. Violation of this ordinance could result in a $50 fine.

With 15 trails for hiking and biking, the canyon offers something for everyone. The most popular is Big Water Trail, a shady path that meanders up the north slope of the canyon with scenic views. The trail ends at Dog Lake, which makes sense since many of the animals use the lake to cool down after the long trek.

Despite the crowds, Brandi (who didn't want to give her last name) comes to the canyon from Holladay year-round and says this time of year is perfect.

"It's a great time of the year for hikers. The trail is shaded with very cool temperatures. I like to bike this trail, too," she said. "It's a great escape from the city, and it's only 10 minutes away."

The Pipeline Trail is a very popular route for mountain bikers. It is about 5.5 miles long, but some portions of the trail are pretty narrow.

"I think it's a little unsettling riding your bike and looking over a cliff at the same time," said James Larson of Salt Lake City. "But we come prepared. We wear helmets and bring first-aid kits."

Due to crowded conditions, Big Water Trail and Little Water Trail are closed to mountain bikers on odd-numbered days. Keeping people safe in a crowded recreation area is a concern for the county, which is responsible for the overall management of Millcreek Canyon.

The stream water is not safe for drinking, so it's important to bring bottled water and dispose of trash properly. Although the streams are safe for fishing — and the county stocks the creeks and ponds every week with brown trout— you must have a state fishing license.

Overnight camping is permitted, but not within 200 yards of open water and no longer than three consecutive nights.

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Millcreek Canyon fees

Season vehicle pass: $22 per year

Senior season pass: $10 per year

Daily vehicle pass: $2.25 per day

Senior vehicle pass: $1 per day

Motorcycle pass: $1 per day

Camping/backpacking: free

Picnicking: free