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Willow Heights Conservation Area Big Cottonwood Canyon Wasatch Mountains Hiking           Willow Heights is a spectacular area to visit and explore. In 2001, Salt lake City in partnership with Utah Open Lands, Utah Quality Growth Commission and United Park City Mines Company purchased 155 acres in Big Cottonwood Canyon. The area will forever be preserved in a conservation easement for watershed protection, wildlife habitat and recreation.           The scenery along the trail is outstanding in any season. The fall foliage, with the canyon maples and the aspens is spectacular.This is a great hike for beginners and children.

Circle of Friends:
         Willow Heights is part of the "Circle of Friends" program. Members of the "Circle of Friends" have access to more specific information, explicit route information, GPS waypoints, trailhead location and detailed maps. If you would like more information on joining the "Circle of Friends" visit the sign up page.

"Circle of Friends"

General Information:
          Willow Heights is a fun and entertaining hike. This is one of the best novice hikes in Big Cottonwood Canyon. Willow Heights consists of a beautiful lake located in the middle of a forest. The trail to Willow Heights is 3/4 mile one-way and it will require approximately 30 to 45 minutes to reach the lake from the trailhead. This is a new trail that was established in 2001. The well maintained trail is not part of the Forest Service Trail System.

          The route contains no obstacles. This route is suitable for beginners and children. Willow Heights is rated 1 I using the Yosemite Decimal System. Navigation for this route is easy. It should be noted that due to new trail construction and trail realignment the USGS maps are not accurate in relation to trail location. The trails and trailhead are correctly located on the map provided.

          Big Cottonwood Canyon is within Salt Lake City Watershed, therefore special restrictions apply and are strictly enforced. No domestic animals (dogs, cats, horses) are permitted in Big Cottonwood Canyon.

          During the winter months the Willow Heights is an excellent snowshoe and cross country skiing destination. Avalanche danger should always be a major priority and proper precautions should be taken when enjoying Utah's winter wonderland.

Trailhead Information:
          The trailhead is located in Big Cottonwood Canyon and is accessible year round to any vehicle. Snow tires or chains are required by law in winter months. The trailhead is not part of the Forest Service Trail System and is not signed at the highway.

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