The best traffic-free bike rides in Salt Lake County

Salt Lake County offers a selection of 4 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails. These routes provide a great way to explore the region's diverse landscapes without vehicle interference.

The no-traffic gravel bike trails in Salt Lake County traverse a variety of terrain, reflecting the region's unique geology. You'll encounter paths along ancient Lake Bonneville shorelines, through canyons, and potentially near the foothills of the Wasatch and Oquirrh Mountains. Expect a mix of gravel, dirt, and sometimes broken pavement, offering diverse riding experiences.

The komoot community highly rates the no-traffic gravel biking experience in Salt Lake County, with an average score of 4.5 stars from 8 ratings. Riders often praise the scenic beauty and the peacefulness of these car-free routes.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, Salt Lake County offers more difficult no-traffic gravel trails. The Corner Canyon Road – Peakview Trailhead loop from Crescent Highlands is a demanding route covering 18.9 km with over 450 meters of elevation gain. Another challenging option is the McPolin Barn – Swaner Nature Preserve loop from Awards bus stop, which spans 35.9 km with similar elevation.

Absolutely. For a more moderate and potentially family-friendly experience, consider the Union Pacific Rail Trail and Round Valley Loop. This 27.8 km route has a moderate difficulty grade and offers a gentler elevation profile, making it suitable for a wider range of riders. The Union Pacific Rail Trail itself is known for its extensive gravel stretches and scenic views.

Many no-traffic gravel trails offer access to stunning natural features. Depending on the route, you might encounter beautiful lakes such as Lake Blanche or Dog Lake. Some trails also lead to impressive waterfalls like Bells Canyon Lower Falls, or offer panoramic views from spots like the Living Room (Viewpoint). The region's canyons, like Little Cottonwood and Big Cottonwood, are also prominent features.

While the routes in this guide don't directly feature the Great Salt Lake, the region itself is home to unique gravel biking opportunities near the lake. Antelope Island, though not part of these specific no-traffic routes, is a popular spot for gravel riding with stunning views of the Great Salt Lake and its wildlife. The Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve is also an internationally important site for migratory birds, offering unique ecosystems.

Yes, parking is generally available near the trailheads for many gravel biking routes in Salt Lake County. Specific parking information for each route can usually be found on the individual tour pages on komoot, or by checking local park and trail websites.

Access to trailheads via public transport can vary. While some canyons like City Creek and Emigration are easily accessible from downtown Salt Lake City, direct public transport links to all no-traffic gravel trailheads might be limited. It's advisable to check the Utah Transit Authority (UTA) website for specific bus routes and schedules that might serve areas near your chosen trail.

The best time for gravel biking in Salt Lake County is typically spring, summer, and fall. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and generally clear trail conditions. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while fall showcases vibrant foliage in the canyons. Winter riding is possible, but conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice, especially at higher elevations.

Dog policies vary by specific trail and land management. While some areas, particularly in the canyons, have restrictions or require dogs to be on a leash, others may be more accommodating. For example, Millcreek Canyon has specific days for dog access. Always check local regulations for the specific trail you plan to ride to ensure it is dog-friendly.

Yes, all the no-traffic gravel bike trails featured in this guide are designed as loops. This includes the Union Pacific Rail Trail and Round Valley Loop, the Corner Canyon Road – Peakview Trailhead loop from Crescent Highlands, and the Swaner Nature Preserve – McPolin Barn loop from Awards bus stop, allowing you to start and end at the same point.