Big Water Trailhead

Big Water Trailhead is a named route within Millcreek Canyon; use this mapped trailhead and confirm grade, surface, closures and return distance.

Small pullouts and trailhead lots fill quickly. Park only in legal designated areas, never block the narrow road, and expect a longer walk when popular Church Fork, Pipeline and Big Water areas fill.

The canyon is generally available daily, but the upper winter gate closes every November 1 and road, picnic and trail access changes with snow, storms and maintenance. Big Water Trailhead may keep shorter, seasonal, staffed, reserved, road-controlled, weather-dependent or daylight-only hours; verify its current status before relying on parent hours.

The Forest Service lists no general restroom or potable-water service for the canyon. Some reservable developed sites may have seasonal facilities; arrive self-sufficient.

The current canyon use fee is $5 per vehicle, $3 for seniors, with annual canyon passes available. Interagency federal recreation passes are not accepted for this county fee.

Developed picnic areas and pullouts vary. Most trails are natural-surface routes with roots, rock, snow and significant grade; verify the exact destination before arrival.

Dogs must be leashed canyon-wide on even-numbered days and may be off leash on trails only on odd-numbered days. They remain leashed every day in roads, parking lots, picnic grounds and residential areas.

Short creekside stops and picnic areas can suit families, but there is no dependable water or general restroom service. Trails, traffic, snow and cold creek water require close supervision.

Big Water Trailhead is a named route within Millcreek Canyon; use this mapped trailhead and confirm grade, surface, closures and return distance. Bicycles are permitted on upper-canyon trails only on even-numbered days, while dog rules favor odd-numbered days. The upper gate closes November 1 and becomes a groomed winter route.

Regular transit does not provide a practical trip through the canyon. Arrange a vehicle and return plan; mobile service can weaken uphill.