Oct 18, 2025

Best Family Bike Trails in Salt Lake City, Utah

Salt Lake City is a true mecca for cyclists. Perfectly positioned between the eponymous valley and stunning Wasatch Mountains, it offers a diverse range of biking experiences for all ages, preferences, and skill levels. From smooth kids-friendly paths with scenic views to adventurous hilly tracks through pristine wilderness, there’s something for every family member to enjoy. But before setting off for a memorable cycling trip with your loved ones, explore our selection of the best family bike trails Salt Lake City has to offer.

Featured Family Bike Trails

Here are the top 3 Salt Lake City bicycle trails to try out with your family:

Trail 1: East Canyon Mormon Pioneer Trail

The Mormon Pioneer Trail is one of the most scenic family routes located in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, about 20 miles from downtown Salt Lake City. It stretches for more than 20 miles from the Little Dell Reservoir to East Canyon State Park, following the historic path used by Mormon pioneers.

This trail is rated easy to moderate, which makes it suitable for beginner and intermediate cyclists alike. It starts quite smoothly and features a mix of wide gravel and dirt roads with a gradual elevation gain of about 3,200 feet. The terrain includes gentle slopes and occasional paved sections near East Canyon Reservoir, as well as some steady climbs that may test inexperienced riders.

All in all, the Mormon Pioneer Trail is great for family rides with children since it runs along picturesque mountain passes, forests, and historic landmarks, which allows for a fun and educational outing with your little ones. Please note that dogs are not allowed on the trail. Below are the key highlights to explore here:

Historic sights: Mormon Flat, the base of Big Mountain Pass, and Pony Express Station ruins.
Natural beauty: stunning views of the Wasatch Mountains, wildflower meadows, pine forests, aspen groves, and wildlife.
Recreational features: scenic picnic spots along East Canyon Reservoir, opportunities for fishing and swimming, camping areas near Affleck Park, Big Mountain, and East Canyon State Park.

Trail 2: Jordan River Parkway Trail

The Jordan River Parkway trail spans 45 miles along the eponymous river, starting from Utah Lake and extending to the Great Salt Lake in Davis County. It traverses portions of SLC and passes through a host of smaller towns and suburbs, which makes it easily accessible for locals.

With a fully paved surface (asphalt, concrete, and wooden boardwalk) and minimal elevation gain of around 692 feet, this family-friendly, multi-use trail is ideal for beginner cyclists and children. Furthermore, the paths are typically 5 feet wide so that you can ride comfortably on any bike, be it a regular commuter, MTB, hybrid, or large cargo cycle.

Another major beauty of the Jordan River trail refers to its impressive variety. Indeed, the route seems to have something for everyone since it weaves from the densely populated urban areas of Salt Lake City to grassy parks in the suburbs and serene wetlands near the Great Salt Lake. It’s also pet-friendly and has numerous amenities that cater to kids and parents alike. Here’s what makes it perfect for family rides:

Scenic features: riverfront views, distant panoramas of the Wasatch Mountains and Oquirrh range, diverse natural landscapes, and waterfall detours.
Family amenities: public parks, playgrounds, picnic tables, benches, restrooms, and parking lots.
Entertainment options: waterfront activities, wildlife spotting, canoeing, horse riding, and photography stops.

Also Read: Best Family Bike Trails in Colorado

Trail 3: Mountain Dell Reservoir to Little Dell Reservoir Trail

Last but not least, we must mention one of the best short routes in Utah for an advantageous family cycling trip. The trail connects Mountain Dell Reservoir and Little Dell Reservoir, located approximately 13-15 miles from downtown Salt Lake City in the western Wasatch Mountains.

It covers 4 miles one way with an elevation gain of around 850-1,200 feet, depending on the path you take along the Mormon Pioneer route connection. The trail features a mix of wide, rocky roads and narrower singletrack paths, transitioning from gravel to dirt and occasional paved surfaces. It also includes a few steep climbs and descents that exceed 25% grade in some sections. Therefore, the Mountain Dell to Little Dell trail is suitable for more experienced cyclists, e-bike riders, and families with older children. At the same time, no dogs are allowed there.

Stretching between the most picturesque water reservoirs in Utah, the trail has a lot to offer:

Natural highlights: lovely reservoir vistas, panoramic views of the Wasatch Mountains, and lush forest surroundings.
Family conveniences: shaded picnic areas, restrooms at recreation sites, parking lots, and nearby playgrounds.
Recreational activities: fishing, kayaking, canoeing, rafting, and wildlife observation.

Additional Family Bike Trails Salt Lake City Has to Offer

Salt Lake City and its surroundings boast hundreds of bike trails for unforgettable family rides. To make the choice easier for you, we have compiled a list of additional cycling routes you may want to explore with your dearest people:

City Creek Park to Memory Grove Trail
Millcreek Canyon Cycle Route
Sugar House Park Loop
Big Cottonwood Canyon Trail
Old Mill Bike Path
Parley's Trail
Emigration Canyon Cycle Route
Murray South Loop
Fairmont Park Loop

Safety Tips for Family Biking

Whatever trail you choose for family rides, safety always comes first. Therefore, bear these tips in mind to keep yourself and your little ones well-protected while cycling:

Make sure everyone wears a properly fitted helmet
Inspect bikes thoroughly before hitting the road, especially if you rent cycles in Salt Lake, Ogden, and Park City
Wear bright or reflective clothing
Equip bicycles with front and rear lights for better visibility in low-light conditions
Always follow the rules of the road
Choose trails according to the skill level of each family member
Carry water and snacks and take regular breaks, especially on longer rides

Conclusion

Salt Lake City is a true nature playground for anyone willing to get unforgettable cycling experiences. From scenic canyon roads with Instagram-worthy mountain views to riverfront lanes and peaceful reservoir trails surrounded by lush forest, SLC offers a diverse range of biking opportunities you cannot miss.

No bike? No problem! Ferla offers a wide selection of family-focused models for different cycling needs, including electric cargo bicycles adapted to various terrains and payloads. So, choose a bike that suits you and head out on a memorable family adventure in Salt Lake!