Attractions and Places To See around Cottonwood Heights - Top 20

Cottonwood Heights is nestled between

Big Cottonwood Canyon and Little Cottonwood Canyon, offering access to stunning natural features. You can visit Lake Blanche, considered one of the prettiest destinations in the Wasatch Mountains, or hike to Bells Canyon Lower Falls, an impressive waterfall along Dry Creek. Donut Falls in Big Cottonwood Canyon is another popular spot, known for its unique waterfall. For panoramic views, consider the challenging hike up Mount Olympus.

While Cottonwood Heights is a relatively young city, it has several sites with historical significance. The old Cottonwood Paper Mill, built in 1883, is a notable historical structure located at 6900 Big Cottonwood Canyon Road. Other identified historic buildings include the Alvin and Annie Green House and the Granite Hydroelectric Power Plant. The city's Historic Committee also works to preserve and mark historically recognized neighborhoods like Butlerville and Union Fort Road.

The area around Cottonwood Heights is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing in the warmer months. The nearby canyons are also gateways to world-renowned ski resorts like Alta and Snowbird, offering skiing and snowboarding in winter. For specific hiking routes, check out the Hiking around Cottonwood Heights guide, which includes trails like Bells Canyon and Ferguson Canyon. Cyclists can find routes in the Cycling around Cottonwood Heights guide.

Yes, Cottonwood Heights offers several family-friendly options. The Cottonwood Heights Recreation Center is a major facility with indoor and outdoor pools, an Olympic-sized ice arena, and fitness amenities. Mountview Park is another great spot, featuring playgrounds, soccer fields, a basketball court, and a splash pad. You can also visit the Bear Canyon suspension bridge on the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, which is accessible for hikers and bikers, and dogs are allowed on leash.

For easier hikes, you can explore trails like the Old Mill Bike Path or the Lower Bell Canyon Reservoir Loop. The Easy hikes around Cottonwood Heights guide provides more options, including the Sleepy Hollow Trail and shorter sections of the Bells Canyon Trail, which are suitable for beginners.

Many trails in the Cottonwood Heights area are dog-friendly, provided your dog is on a leash. For example, the Bear Canyon suspension bridge on the Bonneville Shoreline Trail allows dogs on leash. Always check specific trail regulations before heading out, especially in protected watershed areas where restrictions may apply.

Cottonwood Heights offers attractions and activities year-round. Summer and fall are ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the canyons, with pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage. Winter brings opportunities for skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts. Spring offers beautiful wildflowers and flowing waterfalls, though some higher elevation trails may still have snow.

For breathtaking vistas, the Bear Canyon suspension bridge on the Bonneville Shoreline Trail offers scenic canyon views. The hike to Mount Olympus provides amazing views from its saddle, even if you don't reach the summit. Additionally, Lake Blanche is renowned for its stunning mountain scenery, with the dramatic Sundial peak towering above.

Yes, beyond the canyons, Cottonwood Heights has several parks for relaxation and recreation. The Cottonwood Heights Recreation Center is a comprehensive facility. Mountview Park is excellent for families with playgrounds and a splash pad. Other parks like Mill Hollow Park and Golden Hills Park offer playgrounds, walking paths, and picnic areas, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

Visitors frequently praise the natural beauty and diverse outdoor opportunities. The stunning scenery of Lake Blanche and the impressive Bells Canyon Lower Falls are often highlighted. The accessibility of trails like the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, featuring the Bear Canyon suspension bridge, is also a favorite, offering scenic views for hikers and bikers alike. The blend of challenging mountain trails and family-friendly parks ensures there's something for everyone.

Absolutely. The area provides various cycling routes, from paved paths to more challenging mountain biking trails within the canyons. The Bear Canyon suspension bridge on the Bonneville Shoreline Trail is accessible for bikers and offers scenic views. For a comprehensive list of routes, refer to the Cycling around Cottonwood Heights guide, which includes options like the Jordan River Parkway and routes through Dimple Dell East Trail.