Snake Creek Canyon Scenic Drive
A breathtaking scenic drive through the Wasatch Mountains, offering stunning vistas and access to numerous hiking trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and find parking
Snake Creek Canyon Scenic Drive
Best Time
Beat the crowds and find parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking scenic drive through the Wasatch Mountains, offering stunning vistas and access to numerous hiking trails.
"It looks just as amazing as it does in winter. "
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking lots fill up fast! Aim for early morning or weekdays to secure a spot.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Essential for exploring the trails and uneven terrain.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Mountain Vistas
Various overlooks along the drive
Breathtaking views of the surrounding Wasatch Mountains, especially stunning in winter and summer.
Winter Wonderland
The entire canyon
A magical snowy landscape perfect for winter sports enthusiasts and photographers.
Hiking Trail Access
Trailheads along the drive
Gateway to numerous hiking trails for all skill levels, offering solitude and adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking lots fill up fast! Aim for early morning or weekdays to secure a spot.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Essential for exploring the trails and uneven terrain.
Can you ski from Brighton to Midway?
🧥 Pack Layers
Mountain weather is unpredictable; be prepared for temperature changes.
📸 Capture the Views
Plenty of stunning photo opportunities along the entire drive.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking lots fill up fast! Aim for early morning or weekdays to secure a spot.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Essential for exploring the trails and uneven terrain.
🧥 Pack Layers
Mountain weather is unpredictable; be prepared for temperature changes.
📸 Capture the Views
Plenty of stunning photo opportunities along the entire drive.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty and breathtaking mountain vistas of Snake Creek Canyon. The drive offers incredible scenery, especially in winter, and serves as a gateway to numerous hiking trails. However, parking can be a significant challenge, and the area can become crowded, diminishing the sense of solitude for some.
"Nothing is maintained or Patrolled. So, do whatever you want? This photo is directly above at the next switchback."
jeff weissman
"It's so beautiful"
Patricia Gomez
"Not much room for parking and it fills up fast. But there is good riding there."
Ammon Sweeten
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The scenic drive is accessible via Big Cottonwood Canyon Road (SR-190) in Utah. It's a well-marked turn-off.
The drive itself is generally open year-round, but winter conditions can affect accessibility and road closures are possible due to snow.
Driving slowly and stopping at various overlooks is recommended. Many visitors also use it as a starting point for hikes.
The road can be winding with steep sections. Be cautious of wildlife and other vehicles, especially during peak times.
While the primary access is from Big Cottonwood Canyon, some adventurous individuals have explored routes from the Midway/Heber side, though this often requires off-road capabilities or specific ski routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to drive through Snake Creek Canyon. It's a public road.
Generally, no permit is required for day hiking. However, always check with the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest for any specific regulations or potential permit requirements for longer expeditions or overnight stays.
The scenic drive is open 24/7, but it's best experienced during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
Visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles. Specific restrictions may apply to campfires or certain activities depending on the season and fire danger.
Trail conditions can vary. Check with local ranger stations or online forums for recent updates, especially before attempting longer hikes.
📸 📸 Photography
Every turn offers a new perspective! Overlooks, trailheads, and the winding road itself provide excellent photo opportunities.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden hour light, while midday can provide clear, crisp views of the rugged terrain.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain vistas, and a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife.
Drone usage is subject to federal regulations and may be restricted in certain areas, especially within national forests. Always check current FAA guidelines and local forest service rules.
Winter offers a serene, snow-covered landscape, while summer and fall provide vibrant greenery and colorful foliage respectively.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families with active children, several shorter, less strenuous hiking trails are accessible from the drive. These provide a chance for kids to explore nature safely. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, and dress children in layers as mountain weather can be unpredictable.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
Plan to take your time, stopping frequently at the numerous overlooks to soak in the scenery and capture photographs. Consider combining this drive with other attractions in Big Cottonwood Canyon for a full day of exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
Popular options include trails leading to alpine lakes and panoramic viewpoints. It's crucial to be prepared with adequate water, snacks, and appropriate gear, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains. Always inform someone of your hiking plans before you set out.
Some Redditors have discussed ambitious routes, like the potential to ski from Brighton to Midway via the backside of the canyon, highlighting the extensive backcountry access. This underscores the need for advanced planning and navigation skills for more extreme adventures.
Winter Activities and Scenery
While not a formal ski resort, the area is known for its backcountry skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Skiers have even discussed routes that could potentially connect to nearby towns like Midway, showcasing the vastness of the terrain.
For those who prefer a less strenuous experience, simply driving through the canyon and stopping at overlooks provides a magical winter wonderland experience. The quiet solitude of the snow-covered mountains is a major draw for many visitors seeking peace and natural beauty.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit