Salt Lake City Sports & Outdoors Tips by Segolily Top 5 Page for this destination

Jordan River Parkway

I wish there could be more options for activities. Because along the Jordan River Parkway you can do it all....biking, running, skating, kayaking, baby walking, dog walking, birding.

The Jordan River runs from Utah Lake through the "Jordan Narrows" into Salt Lake Valley, then north through Salt Lake Valley to empty into the Great Salt Lake. It effectively cuts Salt Lake Valley in half with the East and West sides defined partly by the river and partly by State Street and I-15, that run parallel.

The Parkway includes trails, bridges, parking areas, playgrounds and boat launching areas. It runs the length of the Valley and has entryways at numerous spots along the way. It is a level trail so not strenuous at all.

If you are looking for a nice running path or bike trail, this might work for you.

Theme: Biking

Website: http://www.parks.slco.org/jordanRiverParkway/

Hiking/biking the Bonneville Shoreline trail Hiking, Rock Climbing Review

The Salt Lake Valley (and much of northern Utah) was once the home of the huge freshwater Lake Bonneville. This lake left behind benches on the mountain sides where once it lapped the shore. There are several distinct levels that are slowly being built on and are no longer as easily seen as they once were. The highest level is known as the Bonneville shoreline. It was the highest lake level at 5100 ft.
Since the mountainsides above the Bonneville shoreline are much steeper this generally is where the houses stop. As the buildings began to obliterate the natural landscape there were many who called for trails before it was too late. The Bonneville Shoreline trail grew slowly but has gathered steam as more people agree on its value and use. The vision is that one day it will be a continuous trail from Idaho to past Nephi all along the same level as the ancient lake.

Salt Lake City and Draper at either end of the Salt Lake Valley have been the first to have a complete trail. It is favored by mt bikers, but hikers are welcome as well.

I've been exploring the Draper trail section by section and I have to say I am impressed. The trail is easy to follow if narrow. There are great views, and the mountains it traverses while seeming lifeless from further away become full of animal and bird life up close. I've found little pockets of woodland I would never have imagined. Once you find a trail head it is easy enough to follow the trail.
As with many other long distance trails you can do a small section or long.

Theme: Biking

Website: http://www.bonnevilleshorelinetrail.org/index.htm