The best cycling routes around Draper

Draper offers a diverse mix of terrain for touring cyclists. You'll find mostly paved multi-use paths, such as sections of the Jordan River Parkway Trail, ideal for scenic, long-distance rides with manageable elevation. Other routes venture into the foothills of the Wasatch Mountains, providing varied elevation gains and more challenging sections. The region is characterized by river corridors, canyons like Corner Canyon, and extensive open spaces.

While the provided routes include moderate and difficult options, Draper's extensive trail network, including multi-use paths like the Jordan River Parkway Trail and the Draper Canal Trail, offers many sections suitable for families. These paths are generally flatter and provide a safe environment for cyclists of all ages. For a moderate loop, consider the Hiwassee River Bridge – New River Bridge loop from Draper, which is 13.0 miles (20.9 km) long.

Draper's routes often provide stunning views of the Wasatch Range, including iconic peaks like Lone Peak and Twin Peaks, as well as vistas of the Salt Lake and Utah Valleys. The Jordan River Parkway Trail follows the scenic Jordan River, offering a mix of natural beauty and urban views. You might also encounter features like the New River Bridge or the Hiwassee River Bridge, which are part of several touring routes.

There are 4 touring cycling routes detailed for the Draper area, ranging from moderate to difficult in intensity. These routes offer various distances and experiences, catering to different fitness levels and preferences.

Draper offers great cycling opportunities throughout much of the year. Spring and fall generally provide the most comfortable temperatures for touring. Summer can be warm, so early morning or late afternoon rides are often preferred. While winter cycling is possible, some higher elevation trails might be affected by snow, but paved multi-use paths often remain accessible.

Yes, several touring cycling routes in Draper are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the challenging Foster Falls – New River Bridge loop from Draper, which covers 38.8 miles (62.4 km), and the moderate Hiwassee River Bridge – New River Bridge loop from Draper, at 13.0 miles (20.9 km).

The touring cycling routes in Draper are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from a few reviews. Over 60 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Draper's varied terrain, often praising the scenic river corridors, mountain foothills, and extensive multi-use paths that define the area's cycling experience.

Yes, several routes incorporate significant bridges and landmarks. You might cross the New River Bridge or the Hiwassee River Bridge, which are prominent features on some of the loops. The Big Reed Trestle is another interesting bridge in the vicinity that adds to the scenic appeal of the area.

For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Draper offers routes with significant distance and elevation gain. The Foster Falls – New River Bridge loop from Draper is a difficult 38.8 miles (62.4 km) route with over 500 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Draper Mercantile Trading loop from Radford, which spans 70.7 km and features over 770 meters of climbing.

Draper is rich in outdoor attractions. Beyond the cycling routes, you can explore areas like Dimple Dell Regional Park, known for its scenic vistas and geological features. The Jordan River Parkway Trail connects to various parks and wetlands. For those interested in mountain biking, the Junction with Hoover Mountain Bike Complex is also nearby, indicating a robust trail infrastructure.

Draper is committed to outdoor recreation, boasting over 117 miles of scenic trails and 5,000 acres of open space. This includes extensive multi-use paths like the Jordan River Parkway Trail and the Draper Canal Trail, which are well-maintained and suitable for touring cyclists. The presence of mountain biking areas like Corner Canyon and the Draper Bike Park also points to a strong overall cycling infrastructure.