Wasatch Travel Helper FAQ
Answers to common questions about Little Cottonwood Canyon (LCC) and Big Cottonwood Canyon (BCC): traction laws, closures, parking, shuttles, and where data on this site comes from.
What is Wasatch Travel Helper?
A fast, glanceable dashboard for LCC/BCC that aggregates public data (UDOT, NOAA/NWS, UAC, UTA) to help plan safer trips. It’s community‑built and not affiliated with any agency or resort; always verify with official sources.
Is this official? Can I rely on it?
No—this is not an official site. Treat it as a helpful snapshot. For road closures, traction restrictions, and incident management, confirm on UDOT Traffic and follow posted signage.
Where do the data come from?
Road signs, cameras, and travel times come from UDOT Traffic. Weather observations from NOAA/NWS. Avalanche advisories from the Utah Avalanche Center. Ski bus and stops from UTA.
What is the traction law for the Cottonwood Canyons?
During storms, UDOT may activate traction restrictions (chains or 4WD/AWD with M+S/3PMSF tires). Review the official guidance on UDOT’s traction law page: UDOT Traction Law.
Are there avalanche no‑parking areas?
Where can I see snow plow routes?
UDOT publishes a high‑level snow plow routes map: Snow Plow Route Map.
What about shuttles, carpooling, and bus options?
For backcountry shuttles, see Wasatch Backcountry Alliance Shuttle. For carpooling, see the Wasatch Carpool Facebook Group. For Park & Ride lots and rules, see UTA Park & Ride.
Where can I find resort information?
UDOT’s resort resources page has links and basics: Cottonwood Canyons Ski Resorts. Always check individual resort pages for the latest parking and lift status.
Any safety tips before heading up?
Check UAC advisories, ensure your vehicle meets traction requirements, carry winter essentials, plan for parking and bus alternatives, and allow extra time during storms and avalanche mitigation.