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Birch Canyon, 5 January, 2025

An enthusiastic crowd gathered for the first scheduled hike of the 2025 season, cheered by a recent snowstorm and connecting with fellow hikers. After introductions and directions, carpools were established. The group headed north, then east toward Smithfield Canyon but taking a right turn at 1000 East to arrive at the Birch Canyon parking area and winter trailhead.

The road was paved all the way to the trailhead and there was enough parking space for about 10 cars. Walking around the locked gate (open in summer) we started east on a gravel road now covered with 3 inches of snow.  Boots, poles, some microspikes, and one pair of skis outfitted the group for the trek.

Birch Creek flowed on the south side of the trail for a while. Snow from yesterday’s storm still lined the tall tree branches and partially covered the meadows and rocks. The road width of the trail and the gentle climb allowed a lot of socializing while hiking.

The trail is a public road surrounded by private property and we passed some structures, cattle guards, and ranching equipment before reaching the National Forest boundary at about 11:45. There we were treated to a good view down-canyon during lunch. Dave W. explained some of the history of the area and the access to other destinations (i.e. Flattop Mt, Mt. Naomi Wilderness) using this trail.

An easy walk down the canyon brought our hike to an end in early afternoon. With high avalanche risk in Logan Canyon, this was a safe and accessible choice and a pleasant first outing.

Trip Summary:
  • 22 hikers: Brent L., Ophelia, Bree, Brent J., Sue, Bruce, Hiro, Dave P., Kathy, Darcie, Laurel, Susan, Kathleen, Michelle, David, Linda, Shelly, Eduardo, Koty, Brynn, Dave W. and Jane (leader)
  • Drove 9 miles to the Birch Canyon trailhead
  • Started hiking about 10:35 am, returned to the cars about 1:00 pm
  • Cloudy skies, moderate temperatures, no wind, no precipitation
  • Traveled about 3.5 miles, climbing about 500 feet.

Thanks to Jane for the narrative and photos and Dave W for GPS data.



Lunch just inside the Forest boundary

Heading down the trail after lunch


Traveling down Birch Canyon

The Forest boundary
 A big nest

Our GPS track shows about 3.5 miles and 500 feet of ascent.
You can look at our route using Google Earth or download our GPS file.