Utah / Salt Lake County / Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest

Ledgemere Picnic Area

Closed — Closed for winter. Typically operates seasonally from late spring through fall. Reservations available through Recreation.gov when open.

About

Ledgemere Day Use Picnic Area is conveniently located just 1.5 miles up Big Cottonwood Canyon from Salt Lake City, making it easily accessible for a quick outdoor escape. The facility offers 14 reservable picnic sites, each equipped with a table, fire ring, and grill. All parking spurs and pathways are paved, providing accessibility throughout the area. Big Cottonwood Creek runs alongside the picnic area, and the creek is stocked with trout, making it popular among local fly-fishermen. The area features flush toilets and non-potable water on-site. A unique attraction is a small man-made cave near the picnic area that visitors can explore. Summer wildflowers paint the canyon with vivid color beginning in late July, while autumn leaves put on a spectacular show in late September. Because Big Cottonwood Canyon is a protected watershed, no pets are allowed (even in vehicles), and wading or swimming in the creek is prohibited. The picnic area serves as a convenient base for exploring Big Cottonwood Canyon's recreation opportunities. Numerous hiking and mountain biking trailheads are located throughout the canyon. Rock climbing is popular on the canyon's cliffs, and Solitude Mountain Resort is 11.5 miles up-canyon. Gates open at 7:00 a.m. and close at 10:00 p.m. daily. Maximum occupancy is 8 people per single site.

Directions

Take exit 301 off I-15. Turn east and travel 6 miles on 7200 South to the mouth of Big Cottonwood Canyon. Travel 1.5 miles up Big Cottonwood Canyon. Picnic area is on the left.

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