Ross Creek Recreation Area
Ross Creek is Jordanelle State Park's non-motorized area on the reservoir's north arm, off SR-248 between Park City and Kamas. It's a trailhead first: the Perimeter Trail runs through it, and two short loops, Wada Way (1.85 miles) and Keetley (1.69 miles), start here for hikers and mountain bikers. There are hitching posts for horses, vault toilets, 24 first-come cabanas, and shore access to the north arm, which Utah State Parks says is known for its bass fishing. The gate is open 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., and day-use fees apply.
Ross Creek at a Glance
The Trails
- Perimeter Trail: a non-motorized trail that links all three areas of the park, from Crandall Point near Hailstone through Ross Creek to Rock Cliff, 15.5 miles one-way on Utah State Parks' brochure map. Hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders all share it, and Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes are allowed.
- Wada Way: a 1.85-mile loop for hiking or biking.
- Keetley Loop: a 1.69-mile loop for hiking or biking.
All trails are non-motorized and shared, so practice trail courtesy and stay on the marked routes; making your own trail is unlawful (Hiking & Biking, Trail Map).
Paddling and Fishing
Ross Creek gives non-motorized access to the reservoir, and Utah State Parks lists kayaking and paddleboarding among its uses. There's no boat ramp or marina here; launch motorboats at Hailstone. Anglers use the trailhead to reach the shore of the north arm, which the park calls known for bass (Fishing).
Cabanas and Facilities
Ross Creek has 24 cabanas, all first-come, first-served: 12 sand cabanas and 12 on concrete pads with tables. The trailhead has parking, trash cans, two vault restrooms, hitching posts and an entrance booth where you pay the day-use fee ($20 per vehicle in peak season).
Getting Here
From Salt Lake City, take I-80 east to US-40, go south to exit 4 (Kamas/Park City), then east on SR-248. Utah State Parks puts it about 45 miles from Salt Lake City (Parking & Directions).
Ross Creek Recreation Area FAQ
Where is Ross Creek at Jordanelle?
Off SR-248 between Park City and Kamas, on the reservoir's north arm. Take US-40 to exit 4 (Kamas/Park City) and head east on SR-248.
What trails start at Ross Creek?
The Perimeter Trail, plus two loops: Wada Way (1.85 miles) and Keetley (1.69 miles). All are non-motorized and open to hikers, bikers and horseback riders.
Can you launch a boat at Ross Creek?
Not a motorboat. Ross Creek is non-motorized day-use access, suited to kayaks and paddleboards. The boat ramps are at Hailstone.
Is there a fee at Ross Creek?
Yes. Day-use is $20 per vehicle from May through October and $10 from November through April, paid at the entrance booth.
Is Ross Creek good for fishing?
Utah State Parks says the north arm, reached from the Ross Creek trailhead, is known for its bass fishing.