Cycle Big Mountain

The views from the top of Big Mountain are breathtaking. From the Salt Lake - Morgan County border at about 7,400 ft, you will look down East Canyon, and over the top of Parley's Canyon into the Salt Lake Valley. Big Mountain can be ridden alone or as an extension to the Emigration Canyon Ride.

From the parking lot just east of the Zoo (4,940 ft) to Little Mountain Summit at the top of Emigration Canyon, you will gain approximately 1,300 ft in elevation over 7.7 miles. You'll drop about 300 ft down the back side to Little Dell Reservoir, and continue up East Canyon for about 5.5 miles, climbing about 1500 ft to Big Mountain Pass (7,400 ft).

Wildlife is abundant in East Canyon. Keep an eye out for deer, wild turkeys, and even the occasional moose.

Getting there: Drive to Utah's Hogle Zoo, or if you'd like to add a little extra distance to your ride, start somewhere else in the valley and ride to the zoo. There is a small park just east of the zoo on the south side of the road where you will find ample parking space.

From the parking lot, ride east on the main road (E Sunnyside Ave/Emigration Canyon Rd) into Emigration Canyon. Once you summit Little Mountain, at the top of Emigration, continue down the back side. Turn left onto Highway 65 to Little Dell Reservoir and East Canyon (you could park at Little Dell Reservoir if you don't want to climb Emigration). Continue Northeast on Highway 65 until you reach Big Mountain Pass.