The best traffic-free bike rides in Salt Lake County

Salt Lake County offers over 60 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, with more than 30 easy, 20 moderate, and 10 challenging options to explore.

For easy, paved, and car-free touring, the Jordan River Parkway Trail is an excellent choice, offering over 45 miles of scenic riding. Another great option is the General Holm Park loop from Murray Central, which provides a gentle ride along the Jordan River. The Legacy Parkway Trail also offers a smooth, easy experience.

Yes, for a moderate challenge with elevation, consider the City Creek Canyon Road. This route offers a good climb on mostly paved surfaces within a beautiful canyon setting. Another moderate option is the General Holm Park – View of the Jordan River loop from 600 South.

Salt Lake County's no-traffic routes offer diverse scenic views. You can enjoy panoramic vistas of the Great Salt Lake and the Wasatch Mountains, especially from trails like the Bonneville Shoreline Trail. Routes along the Jordan River Parkway provide lush green spaces and riverfront scenery, while canyon roads offer dramatic mountain backdrops.

The komoot community highly rates the no-traffic touring routes in Salt Lake County, with an average score of 4.2 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the extensive network of paved, car-free paths, the diverse scenery ranging from riverfronts to mountain views, and the accessibility of routes for all skill levels.

Absolutely. The Jordan River Parkway Trail is highly recommended for families due to its flat, paved, and car-free nature, connecting numerous parks and amenities. The Legacy Parkway Trail is another excellent choice for a safe and enjoyable family outing.

Along many routes, especially those following the Jordan River, you'll find parks, wetlands, and urban areas. For broader scenic points, you can find highlights like View of Salt Lake City from Mount Wire or View of Salt Lake City from Ensign Peak, offering stunning city and mountain panoramas. The Parleys Canyon area also offers unique natural features.

The best time to cycle in Salt Lake County is typically from spring through fall (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 foliage.

Yes, many of the no-traffic routes offer loop options. For example, the Jordan River Parkway Trail – Riverfront Parks loop from Historic Gardner is a popular choice for a car-free circular ride. These loops allow you to start and end at the same point, often with convenient parking.

Many popular no-traffic routes, such as the Jordan River Parkway Trail and Legacy Parkway Trail, have designated parking areas at various access points. Salt Lake County also has an extensive public transport system (UTA) that can provide access to trailheads, particularly within urban areas. Check local UTA schedules and bike-on-bus/train policies for specific routes.

Yes, the Jordan River Parkway Trail itself offers over 45 miles of continuous paved, car-free path, making it suitable for longer touring rides. Additionally, the broader Golden Spoke network connects over 170 miles of multi-use trails across the Wasatch Front, providing extensive options for long-distance, traffic-free cycling.