About Birches Picnic Area
Overview Birches Picnic Area is 15 miles from Salt Lake City up Big Cottonwood Canyon. Big Cottonwood Creek runs alongside the site. Vistors enjoy fishing, hiking, and biking. Recreation Big Cottonwood Creek is stocked for trout fishing and is a favorite among local fly-fisherman. Additionally, many hiking and mountain biking trailheads are located in the canyon. Facilities Birches has 6 picnic sites, all with picnic tables, campfire rings, and grills. Pathways within the area are paved. Natural Features Big Cottonwood Creek runs alongside the site. Summer wildflowers paint the canyon with vivid color beginning in late July. Autumn leaves put on quite a show in late September. Nearby Attractions Big Cottonwood Canyon is a beautiful area known for its soaring peaks, pristine hidden lakes and cascading streams. Numerous hiking and mountain biking trails are in the area. Rock climbing is a popular activity as well. Solitude Mountain Resort is 11.5 miles up-canyon, offering scenic chairlift rides, hiking, a few dining options and a challenging 18-hole disc golf course.
How to Get There
Take exit 301 off I-15. Turn east and travel 6 miles on 7200 South to the mouth of Big Cottonwood Canyon. Travel 1.9 miles up Big Cottonwood Canyon to picnic area.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 8)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Birches Picnic Area
Heading to Birches Picnic Area? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Birches Picnic Area?
No central reservation system listed for Birches Picnic Area. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10113994) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Birches Picnic Area?
Take exit 301 off I-15. Turn east and travel 6 miles on 7200 South to the mouth of Big Cottonwood Canyon. Travel 1.9 miles up Big Cottonwood Canyon to picnic area.
How do I contact Birches Picnic Area?
You can reach the park at phone: 385-273-1100.
References & Official Resources
