our mission
Who We Are
Friends of Little Cottonwood Canyon is a coalition of Utah residents, outdoor enthusiasts, and conservationists bound by our love for the extraordinary and unique landscape of Little Cottonwood Canyon We are wholly committed to protecting its stunning beauty and access to it—not just for skiing, climbing, and hiking, but for the canyon itself and its inhabitants. More than a recreation spot, the canyon is a sanctuary of wild spaces, pristine watersheds, and untouched alpine backcountry.
We champion common-sense, affordable, sustainable solutions to managing canyon recreation and visitation that enable meaningful human connection with these lands while fiercely protecting their ecological integrity. For this reason we are fighting against building an 8-mile long gondola to bring more crowds into the canyon at an accelerated pace.
Generations of Utahns have cherished Little Cottonwood Canyon’s nature trails and pristine vistas—we are determined that countless future generations will inherit this same profound experience. Protecting this canyon isn’t just a cause; it’s our responsibility.
“More people in Little Cottonwood Canyon will cause more damage. It’s that simple.”
A Gondola Scars Little Cottonwood Canyon Forever
UDOT’s proposed gondola system is not a transportation solution—it’s an enormous 8-mile long, permanent, taxpayer-funded tourist attraction that benefits ONLY two private ski resorts at the expense of the canyon’s natural beauty and ecosystem balance.
- The will dominate the landscape. The canyon’s breathtaking views will be replaced by 22 massive towers 200 foot tall towers and 40 bus-sized gondolas running overhead.
- It is an irreversible, taxpayer-funded project. The cost? $1.4 billion and counting—while ignoring more practical, less destructive solutions and using funds that could be allocated to real transportation needs in Utah.
- It does not solve congestion. The gondola primarily serves skiers at two privatee resorts—not the many other visitors who hike, climb, bike, and enjoy LCC year-round. In addition, it will move congestion to Wasatch Blvd and neighboring communities.
We Advocate for a Common-Sense Solutions
Before spending billions on an unnecessary gondola, proven solutions should be implemented first.
Enhanced Ski Bus Service
Improve range, frequency, reliability, and access.
Variable Tolling
Reduce peak-hour rush with a demand-based fee system
Carpool Incentives
Encourage ride-sharing and manage vehicle flow
Avalanche Sheds
Increase road safety in winter by protecting key areas
Why The Gondola Fight Really Matters
The more people crammed into Little Cottonwood Canyon, the greater the damage to both its delicate watershed and the outdoor experience. This canyon isn’t just a recreation spot—it provides drinking water to thousands, supports diverse wildlife, and offers a rare escape into untouched wilderness. Overcrowding and excessive development will strain these resources beyond repair.
More people mean more pressure on water sources, more destruction of fragile ecosystems with trash, sewage and pollutions, and more congestion that diminishes the experience for everyone. The canyon has a natural carrying capacity, and exceeding it will destroy the very things that make it special. We must find solutions that protect its beauty, not compromise it.
Get involved in the fight against the gondola
- Donate to lawsuits
- Contact lawmakers
- Spread awareness
- Attend events
