Our Jordan River Parkway Trail guide covers practical planning for Jordan River Parkway Trail Utah — best time to visit, getting there, and what to do on the ground.
The Jordan River Parkway Trail Utah is a remarkable multi-use paved trail stretching nearly 50 miles along the Jordan River, offering unparalleled opportunities for walking, running, and cycling through a diverse tapestry of urban and natural landscapes. It seamlessly connects numerous parks and communities, providing a vital green artery through the heart of the Salt Lake Valley. Our team at Roam States has compiled this comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your visit to this exceptional recreational resource.
Is It Worth Visiting?
Absolutely, the Jordan River Parkway Trail is worth visiting for a multitude of reasons, making it a standout destination in Utah. This extensive trail offers a unique blend of accessibility, natural beauty, and urban convenience that caters to a wide range of interests.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the trail provides a flat, well-maintained surface perfect for long-distance cycling, leisurely walks, or invigorating runs. We find that the changing scenery, from bustling city parks to serene wetlands teeming with wildlife, keeps every journey engaging. It's a chance to connect with nature without venturing far from metropolitan areas, offering views of the majestic Wasatch Mountains in the distance.
Beyond recreation, the Jordan River Parkway Trail serves as an important community connector, linking various neighborhoods, cultural centers, and shopping areas. This makes it an excellent option for active transportation, allowing visitors to explore different facets of the Salt Lake Valley on two feet or two wheels. The trail's commitment to accessibility, with paved paths and barrier-free areas, ensures that nearly everyone can enjoy its offerings, from families with strollers to individuals using wheelchairs.
While some sections might be more urban than others, the overall experience of the Jordan River Parkway Trail is one of discovery and rejuvenation. It's truly worth visiting for its blend of recreation, natural beauty, and community integration.
Who It's Best For
The Jordan River Parkway Trail is a remarkably versatile destination, appealing to a broad spectrum of visitors. Our team consistently recommends it for:
- Cyclists of All Levels: With its extensive paved path and mostly flat profile, the trail is ideal for everyone from casual riders and families with young children to serious road cyclists looking for long-distance training. The ability to ride for miles without significant elevation gain is a major draw.
- Walkers and Runners: Whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll, a brisk power walk, or a marathon training route, the smooth surfaces and varied scenery make it an excellent choice. Many sections offer ample shade, especially during warmer months.
- Families with Young Children: The paved and generally flat terrain makes it perfect for strollers, scooters, and kids learning to bike. Numerous parks along the route offer playgrounds and picnic areas, providing convenient stopping points.
- Nature Enthusiasts and Birdwatchers: Despite its urban setting, the trail winds through wetlands and natural areas that are home to a surprising array of birds and other wildlife. It's a fantastic spot for quiet observation and photography.
- Urban Explorers: The trail connects to various cultural centers, shopping districts, and local attractions throughout the Salt Lake Valley, offering a unique perspective on the region.
- Individuals Seeking Accessible Recreation: The Jordan River Parkway Trail is largely paved and relatively flat, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, ensuring that people with mobility challenges can also enjoy the outdoors.
- Dog Owners: Dogs are welcome on the trail, provided they are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them.
How to Get There
Accessing the Jordan River Parkway Trail is straightforward, as it runs through numerous communities in the Salt Lake Valley, offering many entry points. When planning how to get to Jordan River Parkway Trail, consider which section you wish to explore, as this will dictate the most convenient trailhead.
The trail spans nearly 50 miles, from Utah Lake in the south to the Great Salt Lake in the north, passing through multiple cities across Salt Lake and Utah Counties. This extensive reach means there are nearly two dozen trailheads along its length.
For those arriving by car, parking is available at various designated trailheads and parks along the Jordan River Parkway. Popular access points with parking facilities include Jordan Park and Millrace Park in Salt Lake City, the Jordan River Rotary Park in Draper, Inlet Park in Saratoga Springs, and various points in Murray City like Winchester Park, Walden Park, and Germania Park. We recommend consulting a Jordan River Parkway Trail map to identify the parking areas closest to your desired starting point.
Public transportation can also be used to reach certain sections of the trail. The trail runs parallel to the FrontRunner transit train for much of its length, often within half a mile, allowing for convenient access to and from many locations without the need for a shuttle vehicle. Additionally, the Jordan River Parkway connects to other trails, such as Parley's Trail, offering alternative routes for cyclists. For detailed information on how to get to Jordan River Parkway Trail via public transport or connecting trails, we advise checking local transit maps and the Jordan River Commission's resources.
A note on closures: As of early 2026, a section of the Jordan River Parkway Trail in Lehi, specifically under the 2100 North underpass, has a temporary detour due to freeway construction. This closure is expected to last through June 2026, with a paved detour route provided. Additionally, a section in Salt Lake City between 500 and 800 North was closed through June 2026 for bridge repair. Another section in the Rose Park area of Salt Lake City, between Cottonwood Park and 700 North, was temporarily closed in April 2025 for safety and infrastructure concerns, with the closure expected to last until the end of summer 2025. We always recommend checking the Jordan River Commission's website for the most current information on trail conditions and any temporary closures before your visit.
Top Things to Do
The Jordan River Parkway Trail is a hub of activity, offering a diverse array of things to do at Jordan River Parkway Trail for every interest and energy level. Our team finds that the multi-use nature of the trail is its greatest strength, allowing for varied experiences along its extensive length.
- Cycling: This is arguably one of the most popular things to do at Jordan River Parkway Trail. The continuous paved surface makes it ideal for road biking, offering long stretches for leisurely rides or more intense training. You can rent bikes from various shops in Salt Lake City, some of which offer delivery to trailheads. The trail is part of the larger Golden Spoke network, connecting over 100 miles of paved trail between Ogden and Provo.
- Walking, Running, and Jogging: The smooth, flat path is perfect for pedestrians. Enjoy a quiet morning jog, a brisk walk, or a leisurely stroll with family. Many sections offer scenic river views and natural surroundings.
- Birdwatching and Wildlife Viewing: Despite its urban location, the parkway traverses wetlands and natural habitats that attract a variety of bird species and other wildlife, including deer, rabbits, and occasionally foxes. Bring your binoculars for a rewarding experience.
- Picnicking and Park Exploration: Numerous parks are integrated into the Jordan River Parkway Trail system, many offering picnic tables, restrooms, and playgrounds. These make excellent spots for a break, a family lunch, or simply enjoying the outdoors. Highlights include Jordan Park, Millrace Park, and the International Peace Gardens.
- Rollerblading and Scootering: The paved surface is also well-suited for rollerblading and scootering, providing a smooth and enjoyable experience for those on wheels.
- Equestrian Riding: In certain sections, separate equestrian trails run perpendicular or parallel to the paved path, offering opportunities for horseback riding.
- Canoeing and Kayaking: The Jordan River itself offers opportunities for water-based recreation, with canoe launches available in some park sections, such as in Murray City. The trail system is also planned to eventually include a water trail for boaters.
- Connecting to Other Attractions: The trail's strategic location allows easy access to various local landmarks and cultural centers, making it a great way to explore the broader Salt Lake Valley.
When enjoying the things to do at Jordan River Parkway Trail, remember to follow trail etiquette: stay to the right, announce yourself when passing ("on your left"), and be mindful of other users. Motorized vehicles, including most e-bikes and scooters, are generally prohibited on the trail, except where it merges with golf cart paths for short stretches.
Jordan River Parkway Hiking Trails
While the Jordan River Parkway Trail is primarily known as a multi-use paved path, it offers excellent opportunities for what we consider urban hiking and trail walking. The entire length of the Jordan River Parkway Trail hiking trails is paved, making it accessible and easy to navigate for pedestrians of all abilities.
The trail extends for nearly 50 miles, presenting a continuous, mostly flat surface for long-distance walks. This makes it ideal for those seeking a sustained walking experience without significant elevation changes. You can choose to walk short segments for a quick outing or embark on longer journeys, designing your own out-and-back routes or loops that incorporate city streets.
The beauty of the Jordan River Parkway Trail hiking trails lies in its varied scenery. Walkers will traverse urban parks, residential areas, and surprisingly serene natural wetlands, often with the stunning backdrop of the Wasatch Mountains. Specific sections, like the Murray section, are particularly noted as family-friendly and well-maintained. The Utah County portion, spanning about 9 to 10.4 miles through Lehi and Saratoga Springs, is rated easy with an average grade of just 0.1%, making it perfect for toddlers on balance bikes, those pushing strollers, and grandparents.
Along the Jordan River Parkway Trail hiking trails, you'll find numerous points of interest, including scenic viewpoints overlooking the river, small parks with amenities like restrooms and picnic tables, and opportunities to observe local flora and fauna. We recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes, water, and perhaps a hat and sunscreen, especially during warmer months. Maps are available online and at many trailheads to help you plan your route and identify amenities.
Best Time to Visit
The Jordan River Parkway Trail is accessible year-round, but our team finds that certain seasons offer more optimal conditions for enjoying its full potential.
- Spring (April to May): We consider spring one of the best times to visit. The temperatures are pleasant, and the landscape comes alive with vibrant wildflowers. It's an excellent season for walking, running, and cycling before the summer heat sets in.
- Fall (September to October): Autumn is another prime season, offering comfortable temperatures and beautiful fall foliage along the riverbanks. The cooler weather is ideal for longer rides and walks.
- Summer (June to August): Summer is popular, but it can get quite warm, especially in July and August. We recommend planning activities for early mornings or late evenings to avoid the midday heat. Many sections offer shade from cottonwood trees and willows, which can provide some relief. Hydration is key during summer visits.
- Winter (November to March): While the trail remains open, winter conditions can vary. Snow and ice may be present, particularly after storms, making some sections slippery. However, on clear days, a winter walk or ride can offer a peaceful and unique perspective of the trail, often with views of snow-capped mountains. Be prepared for colder temperatures and dress in layers.
Ultimately, the "best" time depends on your preferred activities and tolerance for weather. For general outdoor recreation, spring and fall offer the most comfortable and scenic experiences.
Where to Stay Nearby
Given the Jordan River Parkway Trail's extensive length through the Salt Lake Valley, there are numerous options for Jordan River Parkway Trail lodging, catering to various budgets and preferences. Our team recommends considering hotels in areas that offer convenient access to the trail and other local attractions.
For those looking for Jordan River Parkway Trail lodging with easy access to the southern sections of the trail, particularly near the Lehi or Saratoga Springs portions, hotels in **South Jordan** or **Sandy** are excellent choices. These areas often provide a good balance of amenities and proximity to both the trail and major highways. For instance, the Embassy Suites by Hilton South Jordan Salt Lake City, Home2 Suites by Hilton Salt Lake City/South Jordan, and SpringHill Suites by Marriott Salt Lake City-South Jordan offer comfortable accommodations and are often close to dining and shopping. The Hilton Garden Inn Salt Lake City/Sandy and Hampton Inn Salt Lake City/Sandy are also popular choices in Sandy.
If your focus is on the central or northern parts of the trail, or if you plan to explore Salt Lake City's downtown attractions, staying in **Salt Lake City** itself or nearby **West Valley City** is ideal. Hotels in downtown Salt Lake City provide access to cultural sites like Temple Square, while still being a short drive or bike ride to various trailheads. Options like Spark by Hilton Salt Lake City Central, Comfort Inn & Suites Salt Lake City I-80, and Staybridge Suites Salt Lake in West Valley City are good considerations. Many hotels in West Jordan, such as My Place Hotel-Salt Lake City-West Jordan and Hampton Inn & Suites Salt Lake City-West Jordan, also offer quick access to the parkway and other local amenities.
When selecting your Jordan River Parkway Trail lodging, we suggest checking the hotel's proximity to specific trailheads you plan to use and considering amenities like bike storage if you're bringing your own equipment. Many hotels in these areas are well-versed in accommodating outdoor enthusiasts.
Sample 2-Day Itinerary
This 2-day itinerary focuses on experiencing the diverse offerings of the Jordan River Parkway Trail and its surrounding areas, balancing outdoor activity with local exploration. This is a great way to experience the Jordan River Parkway Trail Utah.
Day 1: Southern Charm & Nature
- Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Explore the Southern Trailhead & Wetlands.
Start your day at Inlet Park in Saratoga Springs, one of the southernmost access points to the Jordan River Parkway Trail. This section is known for its flat, paved paths and family-friendly atmosphere. We recommend a leisurely bike ride or walk north towards Lehi, enjoying the views of Utah Lake to the south and the Wasatch Mountains to the east. Keep an eye out for diverse birdlife in the wetlands.
Activity: Cycling or walking (5-10 miles, out-and-back).
Lunch: Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the trailside parks, or visit a local eatery in Saratoga Springs or Lehi. - Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Thanksgiving Point & Gardens.
Just a short drive from the Lehi section of the trail, Thanksgiving Point offers a variety of attractions, including expansive gardens, museums, and farm experiences. We suggest visiting the Ashton Gardens for a beautiful botanical stroll.
Activity: Garden exploration, museum visits. - Evening: Dinner in South Jordan. Head to South Jordan for dinner. The area offers a range of dining options, from casual to upscale.
Day 2: Urban Green & Cultural Connections
- Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Central Parkway & International Peace Gardens.
Begin your second day in the central Salt Lake City section of the Jordan River Parkway Trail. A good starting point is Jordan Park, which offers parking and easy access to the trail. From here, you can cycle or walk to the International Peace Gardens, a unique collection of themed gardens representing different countries.
Activity: Cycling or walking (5-8 miles, out-and-back), exploring the gardens.
Lunch: Grab a bite at a cafe near Jordan Park or head towards downtown Salt Lake City. - Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Salt Lake City Highlights.
After your trail excursion, venture into downtown Salt Lake City. We recommend visiting Temple Square, the headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere. You could also explore the Great Salt Lake, or visit the Utah State Capitol Building for panoramic city views. For art lovers, the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art is a great free option.
Activity: Cultural sightseeing, exploring downtown Salt Lake City. - Evening: Dinner & Relaxation. Enjoy dinner in downtown Salt Lake City, which boasts a vibrant culinary scene. Consider a relaxing evening after your active two days.
This itinerary provides a solid framework, but feel free to adjust it based on your interests and energy levels. Remember to check for any current trail closures or event schedules before your visit.
Last updated: 2026-07-13 by the Roam States team.