Big Cottonwood Canyon Classic
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Event Overview
The Big Cottonwood Canyon Classic is a mountain running event held at Brighton Ski Resort in Brighton, Utah. The event takes place on the trails of the Wasatch Mountains and features significant elevation changes and technical terrain. Participants travel through scenic areas including Twin Lakes, Lake Mary, and the Solitude Mountain Resort area.
Distances
Participants can choose from the following options:
- Half Marathon (approximately 12 miles with 3,500 feet of elevation gain)
- 5K (running course)
- 5K (walking course)
Course Details
The Half Marathon begins at the Crest ski lift. The route follows an access road to Twin Lakes, continues down the SolBright and Kruzer trails to the base of Solitude, and climbs via the Honeycomb Return Road. The path crosses into Little Cottonwood Canyon via the Silver Fork Canyon trail, traverses Grizzly Gulch, and passes the Twin Lakes dam before heading to Lake Mary and descending to the finish line.
The 5K route also starts at the Crest ski lift and heads toward Twin Lakes. At the Twin Lakes dam, participants traverse Mount Milly to reach Lake Mary. The final section follows the Lake Mary and Catherine's Pass Trail down to the finish area.
Amenities and Logistics
One aid station is available on the Half Marathon course, located at the base of the Twin Lakes Dam. This station is accessible at mile 1 and mile 6.5, providing water, electrolyte drinks, and various snacks such as fruit, chips, and sandwiches. Race registration includes a shirt, a finishers magnet, and entry into a raffle. Awards are presented to the top five male and female finishers in both the Half Marathon and the 5K. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
