Top Mountain Biking Trails in the Salt Lake Valley
In Salt Lake City, a playground for outdoor enthusiasts all year round, mountain biking is a popular activity once the snow melts. There are some of the best mountain biking routes in the country in the Salt Lake Valley, with options for riders of all experience levels. Whether your objectives are wide-ranging views, difficult terrain, or a relaxed day out, these top picks will have you ready and on the trails in no time!
1. Bonneville Shoreline Trail
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Distance: Varies (over 100 miles total)
Why You’ll Love It: For mountain cyclists in SLC, the Bonneville Shoreline Trail is a mainstay. This trail offers beautiful views of the Wasatch Mountains and Salt Lake Valley from several access locations around the valley. With portions that range from gentle, undulating trails to more difficult technical areas, it's a fantastic choice for cyclists of all skill levels.
2. Corner Canyon (Draper)
Difficulty: All levels
Distance: Multiple interconnected trails, covering around 40 miles
Why You’ll Love It: Draper's Corner Canyon is renowned for its numerous routes and well-kept trails. Favorites include the Ghost Falls Trail, which winds through shaded woods and across creeks, and the Rush Flow Trail, which is a swift, flowing downhill with lots of berms and jumps. This area is a favorite among locals because of the well-kept and convenient pathways.
3. Millcreek Pipeline Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 13 miles out-and-back
Why You’ll Love It: With breathtaking vistas of the Salt Lake Valley and Millcreek Canyon below, the Pipeline Trail provides a good exercise. It's a fantastic place for intermediate cyclists who like to practice endurance without encountering too many challenging difficulties because it's not too technical. For a decent ascent and satisfying vistas, the Rattlesnake Gulch section of the path is a local favorite!
4. Wasatch Crest Trail
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 20 miles point-to-point
Why You’ll Love It: A must-do for any serious mountain cyclist in the area is the Wasatch Crest Trail. This difficult route, which begins at the summit of Big Cottonwood Canyon, comprises the well-known "Spine" portion, an exhilarating ridge with rocky features and technical descent. This track is as demanding as it is rewarding, offering a variety of climbs, descents, and unparalleled vistas of the Wasatch Mountains.
5. Flying Dog (Park City)
Difficulty: Intermediate
Distance: 17-mile loop
Why You’ll Love It: Flying Dog, which is located in the Glenwild area, is worth the short drive to Park City! This trail offers expansive views, aspen forests, and meadows. Intermediate riders will like the trail's blend of smooth singletrack, swift descents, and uphills. On hot summer days, it's also the ideal spot to catch some refreshing breezes.
6. North Canyon Trail (Bountiful)
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Distance: 4.5 miles to Rudy’s Flat
Why You’ll Love It: This less well-known trail in Bountiful provides stunning mountain views along with a short but difficult ride. Although there are some difficult parts in the slow ascent to Rudy's Flat, the serene wooded regions and abundant foliage make for a nice ride. For those seeking a more sedate trail and a good workout, it's a fantastic choice.
Tips for Mountain Biking in Salt Lake City
Check Trail Conditions: Before leaving, verify trail reports because conditions might change quickly.
Wear Proper Gear: Gloves, protective clothes, and a decent helmet are necessary.
Pack the Essentials: Pack a bike pump, a repair kit, snacks, and lots of water.
Respect the Environment: Reduce your environmental effect and stick to established trails.
With its mix of scenic beginner paths, challenging technical trails, and jaw-dropping views, Salt Lake’s mountain biking scene has something for everyone. So grab your bike, hit the trails, and experience the valley from two wheels—you won’t be disappointed!
