The best cycling routes in Salt Lake County

Salt Lake County offers a wide range of touring cycling routes suitable for various skill levels. You'll find over 60 easy routes, more than 70 moderate routes, and over 40 challenging routes. This diverse terrain includes everything from gentle, paved paths to demanding mountain climbs in the Wasatch Mountains.

Yes, Salt Lake County has numerous easy and family-friendly options. The Jordan River Parkway Trail – Riverfront Parks loop from Historic Gardner is an easy route that follows the Jordan River, connecting parks and urban areas. Another great option is the General Holm Park loop from Murray Central, which is also rated as easy. These routes provide a mix of natural beauty and city views, ideal for a relaxed ride.

Touring cycling in Salt Lake County offers stunning panoramic views. Routes like the Emigration Canyon Cycle Route provide consistent climbs with expansive vistas. The Parley's and Bonneville Shoreline Trail Loop offers rugged yet picturesque terrain with rewarding valley and peak views, especially along the ancient shoreline of glacial Lake Bonneville. You can also find viewpoints like Living Room (Viewpoint) and Emigration Canyon Viewpoint.

Absolutely. The Wasatch Mountains offer some of America's best canyon cycling experiences with significant elevation gains. Routes like the Utah's Hogle Zoo – Little Mountain Summit loop from South Campus and the Little Mountain Summit – Big Mountain Pass loop from South Campus are rated as difficult, featuring substantial climbs. Big Cottonwood Canyon and Little Cottonwood Canyon are also known for their challenging ascents, often featured in races.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 50 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from flat valley paths to steep canyon climbs, and the well-developed network of trails. Many appreciate the accessibility of routes from urban centers and the stunning natural beauty encountered along the way.

Yes, Salt Lake County offers several excellent circular routes. The Parley's and Bonneville Shoreline Trail Loop is a popular moderate option. For a more challenging ride, consider the Little Mountain Summit – Bonneville Shoreline Trail loop from Congregation Kol Ami, which combines climbs with scenic shoreline sections.

Many trails are just minutes from downtown Salt Lake City, with dedicated bike lanes and accessible public transit options to trailheads. The region is recognized as a 'Bicycle Friendly Community,' making it easy to start your ride. The Jordan River Parkway Trail, for example, is easily accessible and connects numerous parks and urban areas.

Salt Lake County's routes often pass by or offer access to beautiful natural features. You can find stunning lakes like Lake Blanche and Lake Catherine, or even waterfalls such as Bells Canyon Lower Falls. Many routes traverse canyons like Parleys Canyon, offering dramatic scenery.

Yes, for those looking for longer rides, the Jordan River Parkway and Legacy Parkway Trail is a moderate 38.1-mile (61.3 km) path that follows the Jordan River, connecting numerous parks and urban areas. Another substantial route is the Mountain View Corridor and Jordan River Parkway Trail, covering over 40 km.

Salt Lake County offers diverse cycling experiences throughout the year. While specific 'best times' can depend on the route and your preference for weather, the region's varied terrain allows for cycling in many seasons. Lower elevation paths like the Jordan River Parkway are often enjoyable for much of the year, while higher canyon routes are best explored when free of snow, typically from late spring through fall.

Absolutely. Many cycling routes in Salt Lake County connect to cultural sites and urban green spaces. You can plan rides that pass by landmarks such as the Utah Museum of Fine Arts, Red Butte Garden, and Temple Square. Historic neighborhoods like The Avenues and Sugar House are also accessible by bike, offering a blend of outdoor activity and cultural exploration.