A Million Trees: Hike around the 1900s Spruces Nursery and Vicinity in Big Cottonwood Canyon

This is a 2-Part free special event. You may join us at either or both locations.

Part 1: Reynolds Flat. The Meeting of the Glaciers is a grand geologic event that shaped our beautiful Wasatch Front from about 30K to 15K years ago. Several geologic features remain from this ice-age event to pique our interest as well as the creation of our primary culinary water source for the Wasatch Front. A leisurely 1 hour or less walk (an uneven dirt trail, 25' elevation gain).

Part 2: Spruces Campground. Regroup for picnic/snacks here about 11:00. Millions of tree seedlings were grown here in the Spruces Nursery from 1905 to 1921 and then planted by hand to reforest the denuded mountainsides of Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons. Learn the inspiring story of community and cooperation to restore our beautiful canyons. A .35 mile flat walk for one hour (mostly paved and flat, some uneven dirt trail).

Altitude is 7500 feet. No pets or support animals. Bring a filled water bottle or two (no water onsite!), snacks and/or picnic lunch, sturdy shoes, sunhat, sunblock, bug spray and (optional) hiking poles. Your leaders are Julie Myers and David Anson, Osher members and naturalists.

Summer 2026

08-05-2026, Wednesday

10:00 AM-1:00 PM

Location: Reynolds Flat and The Spruces

Sorry, this special event is full. To be added to wait list, please fill out our online form or call 801-585-5442.

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Questions? Call Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at 801-581-6461 or use our online form.