The best cycling routes around Ogden

There are over 20 touring cycling routes available around Ogden, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find everything from easy river parkway loops to more challenging mountain ascents.

Ogden's touring cycling routes feature diverse terrain. You can enjoy flat, paved paths along the Ogden and Weber Rivers, rolling hills at the base of the Wasatch Mountains, and more challenging climbs with significant elevation gain in areas like the North Ogden Divide. Many routes offer scenic views of the mountains, Pineview Reservoir, and even the Great Salt Lake.

The best time for touring cycling in Ogden is typically from spring through fall (roughly April to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, and most trails are free of snow. Summer offers warm temperatures, while spring and fall provide cooler rides and beautiful seasonal foliage.

Yes, Ogden offers several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners. For example, the Ogden River loop from Wildlife Rehabilitation Center is an easy 12.9-mile (20.8 km) path with shaded sections and parks. Another great option is the Ogden River Parkway loop from Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, which is just over 9 miles (14.5 km) and very accessible.

For more challenging touring cycling, consider routes that venture into the Wasatch Mountains. The Ogden River Parkway loop from Ogden, for instance, is a difficult 17.3-mile (27.9 km) route with over 1,700 feet (540 meters) of elevation gain. The North Ogden Divide is also known for its steep gradients and rewarding descents, often incorporated into longer, more demanding rides.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Ogden are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is the Ogden River – Weber River Parkway loop from Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, which combines two major river parkways for a scenic 20-mile (32.1 km) ride.

Ogden's touring cycling routes offer access to numerous landmarks and natural features. You can ride along the scenic Ogden River Parkway and Weber River Parkway, which pass through parks and natural wetlands. Higher elevation routes provide stunning views of the Wasatch Mountains, Pineview Reservoir, and the Great Salt Lake. The Bonneville Shoreline Trail also offers panoramic vistas.

Absolutely. The paved river parkways, such as the Ogden River Parkway and Weber River Trail, are excellent for family-friendly touring cycling. These routes are generally flat, well-maintained, and pass by attractions like the George S. Eccles Dinosaur Park and the Ogden Botanical Gardens, making them enjoyable for all ages.

The touring cycling routes around Ogden are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from the serene river parkways to the dramatic mountain backdrops, and the variety of routes suitable for different ability levels.

While specific touring cycling routes may not lead directly to the base of waterfalls, many trails in the Ogden area offer views of the surrounding canyons where waterfalls like Waterfall Canyon, Adams Canyon Falls, and Taylor Canyon Waterfall are located. The scenic Ogden Canyon itself is home to beautiful natural features.

Many touring cycling routes in Ogden, especially those along the river parkways, have accessible parking areas at trailheads or nearby parks. For routes starting from the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, there is usually parking available. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route pages or local city park websites.

Ogden has a public transportation system (UTA) that serves various parts of the city. While direct access to every trailhead via public transport might vary, many routes, especially those within the city like the Ogden River Parkway, are often within reasonable proximity to bus stops. It's advisable to check the UTA schedule and route maps for specific access points.

While the river parkways are well-known, exploring the rural western portion of Weber County offers a different kind of 'hidden gem' experience. These lightly trafficked, flat roads provide a peaceful ride through farm country, away from the more popular mountain trails, perfect for spinning your legs and enjoying the quiet countryside.