Upper Mill Creek Road Improvement Project Construction Update

Salt Lake County, UT — Salt Lake County and all project partners are urging canyon visitors to respect road closures in the Upper Mill Creek Canyon construction area. Despite repeated warnings, a rising number of cyclists have been observed entering the closed roadway, putting themselves and construction crews at serious risk.

The Upper Mill Creek Canyon Road beyond the Winter Gate is an active construction zone and closed to all public access, including pedestrians and cyclists, through the summer and fall seasons. Crews are operating heavy machinery in steep, narrow areas with limited visibility, and unauthorized entry can create life-threatening situations.

"This isn't just a road closure, it's an active construction zone," said Salt Lake County Sheriff Rosa M. Rivera. "Our deputies are patrolling the area daily to ensure public safety and support enforcement efforts. While we're focused on educating the public, citations will be issued when necessary. Our goal is to keep everyone safe and prevent accidents before they happen."

Why the Issue is Occurring

Project partners worked hard to maintain trail access throughout the upper canyon, even creating new connections to allow recreationists to continue enjoying Mill Creek Canyon safely. One of these connections includes a trail crossing over the construction roadway that allows hikers and bikers to reconnect with the trail on the other side.

This short crossing must remain open to allow construction vehicles and crews to move up and down the canyon. Despite clear signage directing users to rejoin the trail, some cyclists have instead turned onto the closed road, weaving between equipment and workers.

"While staff are often stationed at the crossing to help guide users, they can't have someone there 24/7," said Helen Peters, Director of Salt Lake County Planning and Transportation. "Every time someone enters the work zone, it delays progress, endangers lives, and puts the long-term access we've worked so hard to preserve at risk."

Looking Ahead

The County and its partners are working diligently to meet construction goals before the winter season. The Upper Mill Creek Canyon Road will reopen for non-motorized winter recreation this December, when the road is groomed for skiing and other winter activities.

For updates, maps, and information about trail access, visit slco.to/FLAP.