Pets allowed
Not Allowed
Elevation Gain
1,200.00 ft (365.76 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
2.20 mi (3.54 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Mule Hollow Trail sits near the mouth of Big Cottonwood Canyon just above the Storm Mountain Picnic Area and across from the waterfall-laden Stairs Gulch. Just like many of its nearby hikes, this trail has a creek running down the length of the canyon. The relatively light flow can dry up easily by summer, so If you get the chance to come out here during spring, it will give you the best experience. It does not get as much traffic as many of the more popular treks in this canyon, but it's close to town, free, and really easy to access. The challenging trail is a great place to get your heart pumping after work on a weekday, and you probably won't see very many people.

There are some remnants of a cart rail, rock tailings, and abandoned mines along this trail. Hiking poles can be a nice addition, especially on the way down with the slippery rock during the spring melt. The autumn color here is spectacular, and the views of Storm Mountain at the top of the trail are seriously stunning. The foliage along the trail can get pretty thick in places during the summer months. Keep in mind there are no dogs allowed on this trail.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Summer
Fall

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Close to town. Lots of waterfalls. Great fall color.

Cons

No dogs. Steep.

Trailhead Elevation

5,838.00 ft (1,779.42 m)

Highest point

7,038.00 ft (2,145.18 m)

Features

Near lake or river
Waterfalls
Mine
Bird watching

Typically multi-day

No

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Comments

Have updates, photos, alerts, or just want to leave a comment?
Sign In and share them.