The best cycling routes in Jordanelle State Park

Jordanelle State Park offers over 30 touring cycling routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find options ranging from easy, paved paths to more challenging doubletrack trails with significant elevation changes.

The park features diverse terrain. You can enjoy smooth, paved sections like the Jordanelle Parkway, which is ideal for a relaxed ride. Other routes, such as the Perimeter Trail, include doubletrack sections with varied surfaces, including loose gravel and occasional steep climbs, particularly on the eastern side. The western section of the Perimeter Trail is generally groomed and wider.

Yes, the newly constructed Jordanelle Parkway is an excellent option for families. It's a wide, paved path offering scenic views and a smooth ride, suitable for all ages and even e-bikes. For other easy options, there are 8 routes classified as easy within the park's network.

Many routes offer continuous lake and mountain views. The Jordanelle Parkway provides stunning vistas as it winds through the area. The Perimeter Trail, which encircles the northern and eastern shores of the reservoir, also offers breathtaking views of the Jordanelle Reservoir, Mount Timpanogos, and the Uinta Mountains throughout its length.

While cycling, you'll be surrounded by the majestic Wasatch and Uinta Mountains and the expansive Jordanelle Reservoir. Keep an eye out for impressive geological formations like red sandstone cliffs. The Rock Cliff Nature Area is also a certified International Dark Sky Park, offering unique natural beauty, especially at dusk.

Jordanelle State Park is generally dog-friendly, but specific rules may apply to different trails or areas. It's always best to check with park regulations directly or look for signage on individual trails regarding pet policies to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

The park is generally accessible for cycling during spring, summer, and fall. Summer offers warm weather perfect for combining cycling with water activities on the reservoir. Spring and fall provide cooler temperatures and beautiful scenery, though some higher elevation or less maintained trails might have varied conditions. Winter cycling is possible on some trails, but conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice.

Jordanelle State Park has two main recreation areas, Hailstone and Rock Cliff, both offering access points and parking. Hailstone is more developed with full amenities, while Rock Cliff provides a quieter experience. Parking fees typically apply for entry into the State Park.

Yes, Jordanelle State Park offers 12 routes classified as difficult. For instance, the McPolin Barn – Little Mountain Summit loop from Deer Valley is a challenging 107.4 km route with significant elevation gain. The Perimeter Trail also includes sections with steep climbs that can be demanding for touring cyclists with hybrid or gravel bikes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 19 reviews. Cyclists often praise the continuous lake and mountain views, the diverse terrain options, and the opportunity to spot wildlife like mule deer, moose, and bald eagles along the trails.

Yes, many routes in Jordanelle State Park are designed as loops. For example, the Town Lift – City Park loop from Deer Valley is a popular moderate circular path. The Hat Trick Trail loop from Quinn's Recreation Complex also offers a shorter, difficult loop option.

Jordanelle State Park is home to abundant wildlife. Cyclists often spot mule deer, moose, elk, beavers, bald eagles, and ospreys, particularly along the trails near the reservoir. It's a great opportunity to connect with nature while you ride.