This is a Millcreek Canyon locals favorite ride. You can really start from any point in the canyon, just ride up the road to the trailheads. However, we recommend driving up to the top parking lot and starting on the Big Water trail.
The Big Water trail starts off fairly steep, with some rooty sections. Just get past the first .3 miles and the rest of the way is more gradual. You will eventually run into Dog Lake which is perfect to hangout and refuel for the Desolation Lake section. To get to Desolation Lake, stay on the left side of Dog Lake. Very soon, there is a fork in the trail: left for Desolation Lake, right for Mill D.
Take the Dog Lake to Desolation Lake connector trail. You will stay on the high side of the mountain. You will wind around some aspen groves and eventually get to a pretty rooty climb for a short distance. Then a hike-a-bike rocky section to finish the uphill to Desolation Lake.
Hang out for a minute, then enjoy the most scenic downhill back to your car.
**Importatant**
- This is a fee area (price is $5 as of 2021).
- Bikes only allowed on Even Numbered Days
- This is a high traffic trail with a lot of downhill bikes coming from the Crest Trail
