City Creek Trail

The main paved route is about 6.6 miles one-way. Given its moderate difficulty and consistent uphill grade, jogging the full out-and-back route (13.2 miles) could take around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and fitness level. The Komoot tour data suggests an average duration of about 1 hour and 17 minutes for a 10.3 km (6.4 miles) jogging segment.

The trail offers a mix of surfaces. The primary jogging route follows the paved City Creek Canyon Road, which is ideal for long-distance running. Parallel to this, you'll find natural, singletrack dirt trails that provide a more traditional trail running experience. These natural sections can have rocks, roots, and some small steep grades, while the paved road has a steady uphill climb into the canyon.

The trail is highly accessible directly from downtown Salt Lake City. You can reach the trailhead by walking through Memory Grove Park from the State Capitol. Parking is available in the downtown area, though specific trailhead parking within the canyon itself is limited, especially on days when the road is open to vehicles.

As you jog, you'll quickly transition from urban surroundings to a beautiful canyon with lush foliage and grassy meadows. Keep an eye out for secluded spots like 'The Grotto' and the 'Hobbit Fountain,' a warm spring. As you ascend, the terrain becomes shadier and more wooded. You might also spot wildlife such as deer and moose. The trail itself is a highlight: City Creek Trail.

While the paved surface is generally easy, the trail is rated as moderately difficult due to a consistent uphill grade as it climbs into the canyon, with a significant elevation gain over its length. Beginners should be prepared for a steady climb, but the accessible nature and scenic views make it a rewarding challenge. Consider starting with shorter sections or the natural singletrack trails which are rated easy/intermediate.

The trail is generally accessible year-round. However, for the most pleasant jogging conditions, consider visiting between May and October when the weather is milder. During this period, the paved Canyon Road is closed to motor vehicles on odd-numbered days, offering a car-free environment. From November to March, parts of the trail can be snow-covered and icy, requiring appropriate gear.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the City Creek Trail for jogging. It is freely accessible to the public.

Yes, the trail offers connections to other running options, including sections of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail. This allows for varied routes and opportunities to extend your run beyond the main canyon path.

City Creek Canyon is a protected watershed, serving as a primary source of drinking water for Salt Lake City. Due to its status as a protected watershed, specific regulations regarding dogs may apply to maintain water quality. It's best to check local signage or the Salt Lake City Public Utilities website for the most current rules on pet access.

The paved Canyon Road is closed to motor vehicles on odd-numbered days between May and October, making it particularly appealing for runners and cyclists seeking a car-free environment. On even-numbered days when cars are allowed, pedestrians should always stay on the creek side of the road for safety. Be aware of ongoing construction for water treatment plant upgrades, which may impact access to certain sections, especially on weekdays, until early 2027.

During winter months (November to March), sections of the trail can become snow-covered and icy. If jogging during this time, it's advisable to wear appropriate footwear with good traction, such as trail running shoes with aggressive lugs or even microspikes, especially on shaded or higher elevation sections. Layered clothing is also recommended to adapt to changing temperatures.