Albion Basin
Easier doubletrack ride in Albion Basin (Alta ski area, at the top of Salt Lake's Little Cottonwood Canyon). Broad, smooth dirt road that climbs up to a camping area below Cecret Lake. Out-and-back is 3 miles each way, with 820 feet of altitude gain, starting at 8800 feet elevation. Good family ride, excellent for beginners. Dogs are not allowed. Option of connection to Germania Pass road for a tougher ride.

Ride description: Ride uphill past the information booth, onto the gravel road. Continue uphill, ignoring any smaller roads or side trails. Just after you pass under the ski lift, and after the road turns left (just past the rest rooms), keep straight at the 4-way intersection. Continue up to the campground and fork R. Follow the campground road counterclockwise. On the way back, consider forking L near the lodge for a steeper, more technical doubletrack descent. Or fork L again and go past the lodge to grind up Germania for a bit of real climbing. The Cecret Lake trail is closed to bicycles. (Stash your bike and make the hike!)

Getting there: From I-15, take the 90th South exit and drive east towards the mountains. This will take you directly to Little Cottonwood. When you arrive at the stop sign in the canyon, with the giant illuminated Little Cottonwood conditions sign on your right, turn right uphill and drive 8 miles to Alta. Keep straight until the end of the road. Park on the right side of the road just before the information booth (between the lanes of the road just before it turns to gravel).

Trail conditions change, and the layout of a trail may change without notice. Use this trail guide at your own risk.

Copyright 2002 Mad Scientist Software Inc