The best road cycling routes in Davis County

Embark on a road cycling adventure to Antelope Island State Park from Syracuse, a route that promises expansive views of the Great Salt Lake and abundant wildlife. The journey across the 7-mile causeway is a flat, scenic start, leading to the island's rolling hills and moderate climbs on well-paved roads. You'll navigate around the island's shores and mountains, with the chance to spot bison and pronghorn antelope grazing in their natural habitat, making for a truly unique experience.

This moderate 45.7-mile (73.6 km) ride, with 1104 feet (337 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 59 minutes. You can start near the causeway's guard house, where parking and facilities are available, allowing you to avoid urban traffic. Remember there's an entrance fee for the park, though it's reduced for cyclists. Be aware that midges and gnats can be present in spring and early summer, so plan your visit accordingly.

Antelope Island is renowned for its stark, beautiful landscapes and serves as a natural escape close to urban areas. The island's east side, particularly around Fielding Garr Ranch, is a prime location for observing large herds of bison. This route offers unparalleled opportunities for wildlife viewing and stunning vistas, making it a top choice for cyclists seeking a blend of natural beauty and a rewarding physical challenge.

Cycle an easy 25.7-mile loop on the Legacy Parkway and D&RGW Rail Trail, offering views of the Wasatch Mountains and Great Salt Lake marshes

Cycle the moderate 13.5-mile Bountiful Utah Temple loop for panoramic Great Salt Lake views and beautiful temple gardens.

Cycle the easy 22.3-mile Denver and Rio Grande Western Rail Trail Loop, gaining 297 feet, with scenic views of the Wasatch Mountains.

Cycle the challenging 93.7-mile East Canyon loop, gaining 5564 feet of elevation through scenic canyons and historic trails.

This moderate 59.3-mile road cycling loop offers scenic views of the Great Salt Lake and Wasatch Mountains near North Salt Lake.

The Denver and Rio Grande Western Rail Trail Loop offers a pleasant road cycling experience, tracing a historic railway line through a mix of suburban landscapes and natural areas. You'll enjoy consistent views of the majestic Wasatch Mountains to the east, particularly from Layton, and might even catch glimpses of wetlands near the Farmington Bay Waterfowl Management Area on the southern stretch. This easy 26.3-mile (42.3 km) loop, with just 771 feet (235 metres) of elevation gain, is mostly flat and paved, making it a comfortable ride that takes roughly 1 hour and 48 minutes.

Planning your ride on this trail is straightforward, as it's easily accessible and suitable for all skill levels. The main logistical consideration is the frequent street crossings, some equipped with gates and zig-zag barriers, which will require you to slow down or stop. These interruptions are part of the experience, so factor them into your pace. The trail's paved surface is ideal for road bikes, and it's a great option for a relaxed outing.

This route isn't just a standalone loop; it's a segment of the extensive Golden Spoke network, connecting to over 100 miles of paved trails from Ogden to Provo. This connectivity allows for longer adventures by linking up with trails like the Legacy Parkway Trail and the Jordan River Trail, or even combining your ride with a trip on the FrontRunner commuter rail. The trail's heritage as a former Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad corridor adds a unique historical dimension to your journey.

The Farmington loop offers a focused road cycling experience for those in the Layton area looking to put in some miles. This route is designed for racebikes, providing a consistent paved surface for a smooth ride. While specific natural features are not detailed, you can anticipate a straightforward journey through the local landscape, ideal for a dedicated training session or a brisk outing.

Planning your ride on the Farmington loop is relatively simple. As a road cycling route, it's generally open year-round, though checking local weather conditions is always wise, especially for summer heat or winter cold in Davis County, Utah. Parking can typically be found in the Farmington area, making access convenient for cyclists.

This moderate 22.1-mile (35.6 km) loop features 1026 feet (313 metres) of elevation gain, making it a good challenge that can be completed in approximately 1 hour and 37 minutes. It's a popular choice for cyclists seeking a reliable route to maintain fitness and enjoy the open road without complex navigation.