Hike Title: Bell Canyon Upper Reservoir

Date: 7/19/2025

Time: 7AM - 5PM

Turnaround time: 1:30PM

Trailhead GPS: 40°34'16.9"N 111°47'52.8"W

Trailhead location: 3400 Little Cottonwood Rd, Sandy, UT 84092

Trail Length: 9.5 miles

Elevation Gain: 4242 feet

Cost: Pay what you want including free. Recommended donation of $5 if you feel generous.

AllTrails Link: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/utah/upper-bells-canyon-reservoir-trail

Description

Bell Canyon Upper Reservoir sits in the shadow of Lone Peak. Don’t underestimate this hike just because it isn’t a peak. This reservoir sits higher than many peaks. The trail can also be used as a gateway to more backcountry areas. It will be less crowded and that much more serene. This is a lot safer from falls than scrambling up to a peak. There will likely be more wildlife than most other hikes.

The parking lot is large and well maintained. Be sure to make your way to the top parking lot.

Each hike is currently limited to 8 individuals to ensure logistics run smoothly and safety does not get out of hand. The fee is to pay for a small snack and to help cover planning and logistics.

Completion on these hikes is not guaranteed. Weather might make it impossible to safely reach the end of the hike. Sometimes we might have to turn back because of a lack of preparation or poor sleep the night before. Injuries are also rather unpredictable and may cause the entire group to turn back since the safety of one is more important than the completion of a few.

No dogs are allowed on this trail.

Packing list

Be sure to wear durable hiking clothes and shoes. It's helpful to have a jacket even if the weather is warm because the higher elevations are often much more windy and cold. These hikes are not simple Sunday walks so ensure your shoes have good traction. Hats and sunglasses can also be helpful. You will need a pack to carry all of the food and water you will need for this hike. You will want sunscreen and bug spray for this hike.

I would recommend around 64oz. of water. This should be most of the weight in your pack. We all need to pack our own lunch. Sandwiches make a great, light lunch. If you have something else in mind that doesn't need refrigeration, heating, and is light; then go ahead with it. Snacks are mostly your responsibility. There will be one protein bar provided. Granola bars, jerky, fruit snacks, fruit leather, trail mix, and those types of things work very well.

Other optional items include soap, a first aid kit, a flashlight, carabiners, paracord, and a water filter. The leaders will have first aid kits and other safety items, but feel free to bring your own if you want. Different trails in different seasons have different amounts of water available for a water filter. A water filter is generally not a substitute for packing water.

Rules and guidelines

There are a few rules and guidelines that we need to follow for safety and integrity purposes. Everyone will commit to following applicable laws and rules as they apply to each location. These rules and guidelines are not just for your safety, but also for the safety of others including animals, plants, and minerals. We are not the only ones sharing these spaces.

1. Everyone will commit to showing up and staying sober throughout the activity. If you use a substance medicinally, that is fine. If you use a substance recreationally, then save it for another time.

2. No speakers are allowed on the trail. We are here to listen to each other, nature, and silence. You have plenty of time on your own to listen to music and podcasts.

3. Your pack is your responsibility. Different locations and different seasons might need different preparations. There is a good chance that someone will have something extra if you forget, but don't depend on it. If something is provided, it will be clearly stated.

Liability Statement

By attending this hike, you agree and acknowledge this is an at-will event, and you are in nature, subject to the elements. Erik Harding, any other involved leaders, and any involved companies are not liable for any injuries or lost items. These hikes are inherently dangerous and there will be times when scrambling may be required. Please exercise caution, take things slow, and be willing to stop if you need!