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Utah
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Utah
Northern Region
East Canyon State Park
East Canyon State Park East Canyon © hiroko primm
Early spring East Canyon reservoir
Gull © stateparks.com
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EAST CANYON STATE PARK
EAST CANYON STATE PARK
5535 South Highway 66
Morgan, Utah   84050
(lat:40.9011 lon:-111.5871) map location

Phone: 801-829-6866
Toll Free: 877-887-2757
Reservations: 801-829-6866
Email: park email button icon
East Canyon Reservoir is a 680-acre boating and year-round fishing delight nestled in the mountains northeast of Salt Lake City on state routes 65 and 66. Recreationists will find a wide concrete launching ramp, paved parking area, modern rest rooms, showers, fish cleaning station and 31-unit campground with a large overflow area. Two spacious, covered pavilions with electricity are available for groups. A concessionaire provides boat rentals and a refreshment stand.
History of the Area
East Canyon and the surrounding area are rich in pioneer history. The Donner Party, also called the Donner-Reed group, was a group of farmers from Iowa and Illinois going west to find fertile land for their crops. On their way to California, they passed through East Canyon in 1846, the first wagon train to pass through this way. Many obstacles, including high brush and rocky obstacles, slowed them down a great deal. Not realizing the harsh conditions they would encounter while on their trek, only 47 of the original 87 reached their destination.

One year after the Donner Party passed through East Canyon, Mormon pioneers followed that same trail, however, this time was much easier due to the trail work the Donner party had accomplished. Four days later, Brigham Young and his group of pioneers used this trail to get to the Salt Lake valley.

Many people used the Donner-Mormon route over the years, including the Overland Stage and the Pony Express.
FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW
Day-UseFishingyes
 Hiking Trailyes
 Picnickingyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
 Water/Electric Sitesyes
 Full Hookup Sitesyes
Swimming
1. East Canyon State Park offers a large reservoir for swimming.
2. The park's sandy beach area is perfect for sunbathing and building sandcastles before taking a swim.
3. Lifeguards are not on duty, so swimmers must exercise caution while in the water.
4. Swimming areas are clearly marked with buoys to ensure safety of boaters and swimmers alike.
5. Water visibility varies depending upon weather conditions but generally remains clear enough for safe swimming activities.
6. The temperature can be chilly early or late season; peak summer months offer warmer waters ideal for swimming.

Fishing
The park offers year-round fishing opportunities in a 680-acre reservoir. Anglers can catch rainbow trout, smallmouth bass and wipers. Ice-fishing is popular during winter months for hardy enthusiasts seeking large cutthroat or tiger trout. Fishing from boats is also allowed with various boat ramps available around the lake.


Location
East Canyon State Park is located near Bountiful, Centerville and Farmington

Picnicking
East Canyon State Park offers picnic areas with tables and grills, perfect for family outings. Some sites overlook the reservoir.
Bicycling
Biking enthusiasts can enjoy several trails within this park. However, caution is advised due to varying terrain and difficulty levels.

Mountain biking options are abundant but require advanced skills for steep inclines and rocky paths.

The Dixie Creek Trail offers a moderate challenge with its 5-mile loop through picturesque landscapes. Be careful of loose gravel though!

For beginners or families, the less strenuous East Canyon Reservoir Loop provides an easier ride along flat paved roads.

Always remember safety first: wear helmets, follow trail signs and respect wildlife when exploring on two wheels in these beautiful surroundings.

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Directions
Twelve miles south of Morgan on Highway 66, 28 miles from Salt Lake City

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