Little Dell Reservoir
A serene watershed reservoir east of Salt Lake City, perfect for quiet kayaking, fishing, and enjoying mountain vistas without motorboat noise.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds
Little Dell Reservoir
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene watershed reservoir east of Salt Lake City, perfect for quiet kayaking, fishing, and enjoying mountain vistas without motorboat noise.
"Quiet, peaceful, and immeasurably beautiful open water with shaded banks and calm waves."
Bring Exact Cash for Entry
:moneywithwings: Pay the $5 fee with small bills; change can be an issue. :ticket:
Kayak, Canoe, Sail Only
:kayak: No motorized boats or paddleboards allowed. Keep it clean! :water_wave:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Serene Kayaking
East and West Hand Launch Ramps
Enjoy peaceful paddling on calm waters, free from noisy motorboats and wakes. A perfect escape for a quiet day on the water.
Scenic Views
Throughout the Reservoir
Breathtaking vistas of water and mountains make this a stunning backdrop for photography or simply enjoying nature's beauty.
Fishing Opportunities
Reservoir Banks
Cast a line for a chance to catch large fish, though artificial lures are required. Early mornings or late evenings might offer better activity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cash for Entry
Watercraft Rules
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Exact Cash for Entry
:moneywithwings: Pay the $5 fee with small bills; change can be an issue. :ticket:
Kayak, Canoe, Sail Only
:kayak: No motorized boats or paddleboards allowed. Keep it clean! :water_wave:
Pack Insect Repellent
:bug: Lots of flies reported, especially near the water. Be prepared! :iphone:
Shaded East Ramp
:sunwithface: The east launch ramp offers better shade than the west. :park_park:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Exact Cash for Entry
:moneywithwings: Pay the $5 fee with small bills; change can be an issue. :ticket:
Kayak, Canoe, Sail Only
:kayak: No motorized boats or paddleboards allowed. Keep it clean! :water_wave:
Pack Insect Repellent
:bug: Lots of flies reported, especially near the water. Be prepared! :iphone:
Shaded East Ramp
:sunwithface: The east launch ramp offers better shade than the west. :park_park:
Artificial Lures for Fishing
:fishingpoleand_line: Live bait is prohibited for fishing here. :hook:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Little Dell Reservoir is praised for its peaceful atmosphere, ideal for kayaking and enjoying scenic mountain views without the noise of motorboats. However, some visitors find the fishing challenging and note issues with bank access due to fishermen, as well as the cash-only entry fee and restrictions on paddleboarding.
"Beautiful area. No live bait only artificial for fishing. Make sure to bring 5$ (cash only) for access! 😊"
Stacy H
"Quiet, peaceful, and immeasurably beautiful open water with shaded banks and calm waves. Kayaks, canoes, or small sailboats only; lack of motorized craft makes this Reservoir a wonderful place to escape the noise of city life. There are two hand launch ramps - the east one is located at the end of the turnoff halfway down from the guard post and is better shaded than the west, but it is further to the water. Several restroom shacks around the area.
Side note, please be considerate of other visitors and leave the boom box at home!"
Ryan Briggs
"Graet place to go hike or fishing 🎣 although you cannot swim are use a watercraft with a motor kayaks only since this reservoir is a watershed for local drinking water, so we have to keep it clean as possible, this lake has huge fish unfortunately I went when it was to warm outside and the were all on the bottom, maybe next time"
Brock Stevens
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Little Dell Reservoir is located about 13 miles east of Salt Lake City. You can access it via Parleys Canyon or Emigration Canyon. Drone footage shows a loop drive using both canyons for scenic exploration. 
Public transport options to Little Dell Reservoir are limited. It's best accessed by private vehicle. The drive from Salt Lake City is relatively short, making it a convenient destination.
From Salt Lake City, take I-80 East towards Park City. Take exit 134 for US-40 E/UT-32 S towards Heber City. Continue on US-40 E and then follow signs for Little Dell Reservoir. Alternatively, you can drive up Emigration Canyon for a different scenic route.
Yes, there is a $5 access fee per vehicle. It's important to note that this fee is cash only, so be sure to bring the correct amount.
Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed at Little Dell Reservoir. This is to help maintain the water quality as it serves as a watershed for local drinking water.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is $5 per vehicle. It's crucial to have cash on hand, as they do not accept cards and may have difficulty making change for larger bills.
While specific operating hours aren't always posted, it's generally accessible during daylight hours. It's advisable to check local conditions or arrive earlier in the day, especially on weekends.
No, advance booking is not required for Little Dell Reservoir. Entry is on a first-come, first-served basis with the cash payment at the entrance.
The primary restriction is that motorized watercraft are not allowed. Dogs are also prohibited to protect the watershed.
If you don't have cash, you may be denied entry. Some visitors have reported issues with the attendant not being able to make change for large bills, so having exact change or small bills is highly recommended.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Kayaking, canoeing, and sailing are popular activities. Fishing is also permitted, but only artificial lures can be used. Hiking around the reservoir is another option.
No, swimming is not allowed in Little Dell Reservoir. This is because it serves as a watershed for local drinking water, and swimming is prohibited to maintain water purity.
Paddleboards are not permitted at Little Dell Reservoir. The rules strictly allow only kayaks, canoes, and small sailboats.
Fishing is allowed, but you must use artificial lures only; live bait is prohibited. Some visitors have noted that fish can be deep in the water, especially during warmer months.
Yes, there are several restroom facilities located around the reservoir area for visitor convenience.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire reservoir offers stunning scenic views with water and mountain backdrops, perfect for portraits and landscape photography. Drone footage captures the beauty from above.
Yes, drone photography is permitted, and many impressive aerial shots have been captured here, showcasing the reservoir's expanse and surrounding landscape.
Late evenings are ideal for capturing beautiful sunsets. Summer mornings can also offer pleasant light and fewer crowds for photography.
While general photography is encouraged, be mindful of other visitors. Loud music or disruptive behavior is discouraged.
Expect open water, rolling hills, and the majestic Wasatch Mountains. The changing seasons offer diverse photographic opportunities, from lush greens to autumnal colors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring plenty of snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited. The $5 cash-only entry fee is a small price for a day of natural beauty. While the fishing might be challenging for younger children, the simple act of being on the water and enjoying the scenery can be very engaging. Remember to pack insect repellent, as flies can be present.
🎣 Anglers
Be prepared for potential challenges, such as fish being deep in the water during warmer periods. Some visitors also note that the banks can be crowded with other fishermen, so plan your spot accordingly. Despite these considerations, the opportunity to fish in a beautiful, less crowded environment (compared to motorized boat lakes) is a significant draw.
🛶 Kayakers and Paddlers
There are two launch ramps, with the east ramp offering more shade. Be aware that paddleboarding is not permitted. While the peaceful environment is a major plus, some paddlers have mentioned that fishermen can occupy much of the shoreline, requiring careful navigation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Kayaking and Watercraft at Little Dell Reservoir
There are two hand-launch ramps: one on the east and one on the west side. The east ramp is often noted as being better shaded, though it might be a slightly longer walk to the water's edge. It's important to remember that paddleboarding is not permitted here, so ensure your watercraft aligns with the reservoir's regulations.
While the lack of motorized craft is a major draw, some kayakers have noted that fishermen often crowd the banks, requiring careful navigation to avoid fishing lines. Despite this, the absence of speed boats and loud music contributes significantly to the reservoir's tranquil atmosphere, making it a favored destination for those seeking a quiet escape.
Fishing Regulations and Tips
Some visitors have found that fish tend to stay deeper in the water, particularly during warmer months, suggesting that early mornings or late evenings might be more productive times for fishing. Patience and the right techniques are key to a successful outing here.
While the fishing itself can be rewarding, be aware that the banks can be crowded with other anglers, which might limit space for setting up a picnic or easily launching and landing your kayak. Nevertheless, the opportunity to fish in such a scenic and protected environment is a significant draw for many.
Photography Opportunities
Drone enthusiasts will find this location particularly rewarding, with numerous aerial shots showcasing the reservoir's expanse and the surrounding canyons. The interplay of light on the water and the rugged terrain provides endless creative possibilities.
For the best photographic results, consider visiting during the golden hours – early morning or late evening. Sunsets here are particularly spectacular, painting the sky with vibrant colors. Be mindful of the sun's position, as it can be in your eyes when approaching the boat ramp during certain times.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit