Albion Basin

Wildflowers, High-Country Hikes,
Classic Alta Scenery

Every summer, Albion Basin … situated above Alta at the top of Little Cottonwood Canyon … explodes into one of the West's greatest wildflower spectacles. Meadows glow with lupine, paintbrush, columbine, and penstemon beneath the limestone ramparts of Devil’s Castle.

With easy access to lakes and hiking trails, Albion is a favorite for families, outdoor lovers, and photographers alike. Full color displays shift with the lingering snowpack. Peak color typically hits late July to early August.

Once the wildflower displays are in full bloom, expect sizeable crowds especially on the weekend. There's limited parking so … at times … parking may be controlled.

Access and Parking

Summer access now uses Alta’s Summer Road. This graded dirt road climbs from the resort into Albion Basin. Expect a per-vehicle amenity fee (currently $12) collected at the booth.

The fee helps fund road, trail, and restroom maintenance. Upper parking near trailheads is limited and fills early on weekends and during the Wasatch Wildflower Festival. 

If lots are full … or if you prefer a longer stroll … park for free at the base lots (Albion/Wildcat). Walk the Upper Albion Meadows trail to connect higher up.

Plan ahead and arrive early. The summer season is short. At times, the area can become almost overwhelmed by the influx of visitors from below.

Photo - Travel Utah

Seasonal Timing and Road Status

One thing about Utah at these altitudes. The weather can change quickly. Expect thunderstorms! They are frequent and can be deadly. 

The Summer Road generally opens around early July. Exact dates depend on snow and any Forest Service projects or temporary closures. Always check the current status before you go.

In heavy-snow years or during on-mountain work, the opening can slide. Segments may close temporarily for resource protection. The Alta website can give you current weather conditions.

Important Watershed Rules

Little Cottonwood Canyon produces a significant part of the Salt Lake Valley’s drinking water. That means no dogs (even in vehicles). It also means no swimming or wading in lakes and streams.

Stay on signed trails and boardwalks. The meadows are fragile so they recover slowly from off-trail shortcuts. Violations are enforced by multiple agencies.

Photo: Travel Utah

Trails and Classic Highlights

• Cecret Lake - From the upper trailhead, the hike is roughly 1.7 - 2.0 miles round trip with 420 - 500 feet of gain. Families should expect an easy-to-moderate climb with interpretive signs and a short, steeper finish to the lakeshore beneath Devil’s Castle. You can also start lower via Upper Albion Meadows for a 4 ½ mile round trip.
• Catherine Pass & Sunset Peak - From Albion Basin, climb to Catherine Pass for broad views. Then continue along the ridge to Sunset Peak if you’ve got the legs.
• Upper Albion Meadows - A gentler, flower-rich connector between base parking and the basin. Great when upper lots are full.
• Germania/Collins routes & passes - Higher-effort options with big-mountain feel for experienced hikers.

Alta’s summer map and signage at junctions make navigation straightforward. It’s a good idea to carry a map or photo of it on your phone.

Wasatch Wildflower Festival

Each July, the Wasatch Wildflower Festival hosts guided walks and family activities across the Cottonwood Canyons. This includes a dedicated Alta/Albion Basin day.

Registration is free … although required … and spots can go quickly. Festival days are popular so carpool if you can and arrive early.

Campground Details

Albion Basin Campground sits among the cooling shade of spruce, fir, and aspen near the top of the road. As in most campgrounds, there’s drinking water, vault toilets, and garbage service.

Fishing is allowed at the small trout stream next to the campground. There’s also a campground host on site. I’ve seen the stream but never fished it so I don’t know your odds of catching anything.

Sites are limited. There is a mix of reservable and first-come when available. Reservations go fast. Good luck with the non-reservation option.

Most spots accommodate two vehicles maximum with no overflow parking. Extra vehicles pay an additional nightly fee. Opening dates vary with snowmelt. They are often announced close to the season.

Gates are locked overnight with posted hours. Plan arrivals accordingly. Check the website for real-time availability and any special notices.

Wildlife

This surrounding area … encompassing Alta and Snowbird … is a year-round recreation paradise. Whether you enjoy skiing, hiking, viewing wildlife, biking, camping, or a tram ride, it’s all just 30 miles from downtown Salt Lake City.

Moose and deer can be seen throughout the basin at just about any time. Mountain goats are spotted frequently on the sheer face of Devil’s Castle just south of the campground.

Weather and Altitude at Albion Basin

Sun, wind, and showers cycle quickly at 9,500 feet. Pack a light shell, sun protection, and more water than you think you’ll need.

Early morning offers calmer air for lake reflections. Late afternoon lights up the meadows but watch for fast-building thunderstorms in July and August.

Start early and be ready to retreat from high ridges at the first rumble. Stay on durable surfaces around lakeshores to protect tundra plants and keep water clear.

Driving Directions

From Salt Lake City, take I-215 to the 6200 South/Canyons exit and follow SR-210 up Little Cottonwood Canyon to Alta. Continue onto the signed Summer Road (graded dirt).

Pay the amenity fee at the booth for upper trailheads and the campground. In non-peak periods … or when the road hasn’t opened … park at the base and hike from there.

In these windows, you may see partial road or trail closures. Muddy or snowy sections will be common. Fewer services, lighter crowds, and more volatile weather will be the norm.

Quick Planning Tips

• Arrive early on weekends and festival dates. Upper lots fill fast.
• Have a plan B - park at the base and hike up if the Summer Road is closed or lots are full.
• Respect the watershed - No dogs. No swimming or wading. Pack it out. Stay on the trails.
• Check current notices for any temporary closures or project work.

Final Thoughts

Albion Basin is Utah’s high-country postcard. Wildflower-carpeted meadows, towering limestone, and trails scale from a mellow flower stroll all the way to summit-worthy ridgelines.

If you time it for peak bloom, it’s magic. But even on a random September morning, the light through the aspens and the quiet around Cecret Lake invite you to slip into another world.

Go early, tread lightly, and let Albion Basin do what it does best.

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