The best gravel rides in Davis County

Davis County offers a variety of gravel biking experiences, with over 7 routes currently available on komoot. These routes cater to different skill levels, ranging from moderate to difficult.

Gravel biking in Davis County features diverse terrain, from the unique island environment of Antelope Island State Park to the foothills of the Wasatch Range and the expansive Great Salt Lake shoreline. You'll encounter a mix of mountain, island, and lakeside environments, offering varied elevations and surfaces.

Yes, for a more relaxed ride, the Legacy Parkway Trail is a flat, 12.6-mile paved trail that runs from Farmington to North Salt Lake, suitable for families. While not strictly gravel, it offers a great family-friendly cycling experience in the area. For gravel-specific options, some sections of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail might be suitable for older children or those with more experience.

Davis County offers numerous scenic viewpoints and natural features. On Antelope Island, you can visit Buffalo Point or Ladyfinger Point for stunning views of the Great Salt Lake and the Wasatch Mountains. The Antelope Island State Park – Bear Sighting loop from West Point offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, including bison. The Bonneville Shoreline Trail also provides beautiful landscapes and views of the lake.

While most gravel bike trails don't lead directly to waterfalls, several scenic canyons in Davis County feature them and are popular for hiking. These include Adams Canyon, Davis Creek Trail, Farmington Creek Trail, Parrish Creek Trail, and Deuel Creek Trail. The Adams Canyon Waterfall is a notable highlight.

The spring and fall seasons generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in Davis County, with milder temperatures. Summer can be hot, especially on exposed trails like those on Antelope Island, so early morning or late afternoon rides are recommended. Winter can bring snow, particularly in higher elevations, making some trails inaccessible or requiring specialized gear.

Yes, Davis County offers several challenging routes. The City Creek Trail – City Creek Park loop from North Temple Bridge/Guadalupe is rated as difficult, featuring significant elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Park City Downtown – Little Mountain Summit loop from South Campus, which is a much longer and more strenuous ride with substantial climbing.

Many of the gravel biking routes in Davis County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Antelope Island State Park – Antelope Island State Park loop from Buffalo Point and the Antelope Island views – White Rock Loop loop from Backcountry Trailhead, both offering comprehensive tours of the island's landscapes.

Parking is generally available at trailheads and state parks. For trails within Antelope Island State Park, parking is accessible at various points, including Buffalo Point and the Backcountry Trailhead. For trails like the Legacy Parkway Trail or sections of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, look for designated parking areas near access points in towns like Farmington or Layton.

The gravel biking routes in Davis County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 2.5 stars from over 2 reviews. Over 30 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the unique landscapes of Antelope Island and the scenic views of the Great Salt Lake and Wasatch Mountains.

While popular spots like Antelope Island can see visitors, exploring routes during off-peak hours (early mornings or weekdays) can offer a more solitary experience. Additionally, some sections of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail or less-trafficked routes in the Wasatch foothills might provide a quieter ride compared to the main attractions.

The length of gravel bike trails in Davis County varies significantly. You can find shorter loops, such as the Antelope Island views – White Rock Loop loop from Backcountry Trailhead at 7.7 miles (12.4 km), to much longer and more challenging routes like the Park City Downtown – Little Mountain Summit loop from South Campus, which spans over 78 miles (125 km).