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May 8, 2025

Upper Mill Creek Road Improvement Project Construction Update

Week of May 8, 2025

Construction is now underway. As a reminder, the roadway is closed beyond the Winter Gate, but most hiking and biking trails remain open. The Pipeline and Upper Pipeline trails will serve as the main routes between the upper and lower sections of the canyon, ensuring continued access to many favorite recreation spots.

Salt Lake County attends weekly construction meetings every Tuesday alongside the contractor, the U.S. Forest Service, and other project partners to review progress and preview what's ahead. Below is a summary of active and upcoming work.


Work Ongoing Throughout the Project Duration:

  • Clearing and Grubbing: Tree removal and general site preparation
  • Survey Work: Continues throughout the corridor


Work Anticipated Over the Next Two Weeks:

  • Construction work area has been staked from the Winter Gate to Elbow Fork
  • Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) is in place to manage and eliminate construction-related pollution sources
  • Soil nail wall construction below Elbow Fork is in progress
    • This technique stabilizes slopes by inserting steel bars (nails) into the soil and grouting them in place
    • The wall will have an architectural finish to blend into the canyon's natural surroundings
  • Installation of the Pipeline Trail Bridge at Elbow Fork is scheduled for Thursday, May 8, via crane. Trail users will be routed safely around the site
  • Traffic control devices are being finalized throughout the project zone
  • Access gates and field office trailers are being placed near the Terraces picnic area
  • Bird and botany surveys are being conducted per the NEPA documentation
  • Cast-in-place culvert construction will begin at the top of the canyon


Expect increased contractor presence, equipment movement, and staging activity throughout the corridor. Trail access remains open but may be routed around active work zones — please follow all posted signage for your safety.

Information for Firs Cabin Owners

The first scheduled roadway access for cabin owners will be Memorial Day weekend. Additional information about access logistics and gate coordination is forthcoming. Salt Lake County, the U.S. Forest Service, and the Federal Highway Administration are finalizing details and will communicate them directly to affected parties.

Questions?
Email: millcreekroad@saltlakecounty.gov
Hotline: 385-468-3527 or 385-468-FLAP

For weekly updates and project information, return to slco.to/FLAP