The best traffic-free bike rides in Weber County

Our guide features 3 carefully selected no-traffic gravel bike routes in Weber County. These range from moderate to difficult, offering diverse experiences for gravel cyclists looking to avoid vehicular traffic.

The no-traffic gravel bike trails in Weber County offer a mix of surfaces. You'll encounter well-maintained gravel paths, double-track sections, and sometimes smooth singletrack, particularly on routes like those around the Weber River Parkway and Ogden River Parkway. Some routes, like the "Mantua Reservoir – Beaver Pond loop from Mantua", involve significant elevation changes, while others follow river corridors with gentler gradients.

While our current selection includes routes rated moderate to difficult, the Weber River Parkway – Ogden River loop from Uintah is rated moderate and offers a good starting point for those comfortable with longer distances. Generally, sections of the Weber River Parkway are known to be beginner-friendly with mostly gravel or smooth singletrack, suitable for gravel bikes with 40mm or larger tires.

Weber County's no-traffic gravel routes often showcase the region's stunning natural beauty. You can expect views of the majestic Wasatch Mountains, picturesque riparian environments along the Ogden and Weber Rivers, and serene landscapes around reservoirs like Mantua. The Ogden River Parkway – Weber River Parkway loop from Ogden, for instance, keeps you close to these scenic river corridors.

All three no-traffic gravel bike routes featured in this guide are loop trails, providing convenient starting and ending points without the need for shuttling. These include the Mantua Reservoir – Beaver Pond loop from Mantua, the Ogden River Parkway – Weber River Parkway loop from Ogden, and the Weber River Parkway – Ogden River loop from Uintah.

The best time for no-traffic gravel biking in Weber County is typically spring through fall. During these seasons, the weather is generally mild, and trails are clear of snow. While some lower elevation trails, like those on Antelope Island, can be ridden year-round, higher elevation routes in the Wasatch Mountains may be inaccessible due to snow in winter and early spring.

For families, sections of the Weber River Parkway and Ogden River Parkway are excellent choices. These parkways offer mostly flat, smooth gravel or paved surfaces, connecting various parks and providing a safe, car-free environment for riders of all ages. While our listed tours are longer, you can easily adapt shorter sections of these parkways for a family outing.

Parking is generally available at various access points along the river parkways and near trailheads. For routes like the Ogden River Parkway – Weber River Parkway loop from Ogden, you can often find parking in public parks or designated trail access lots within Ogden. For routes starting from smaller towns like Mantua or Uintah, local park facilities or street parking are usually available.

Access to some trailheads, particularly those within Ogden, may be possible via public transport options provided by Utah Transit Authority (UTA). You would need to check specific bus routes and schedules to see if they align with your desired starting points along the Weber River Parkway or Ogden River Parkway.

Given the varied terrain, a gravel bike with tires 40mm or wider is highly recommended for optimal comfort and traction. For routes with significant elevation, such as the Mantua Reservoir – Beaver Pond loop from Mantua, appropriate gearing will be beneficial. Always carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, and be prepared for changing weather conditions in the mountains.

Beyond the trails themselves, Weber County offers several attractions. You can visit the 21st Street Pond (Goode Ski Lake), explore the Birdsong Trail, or venture onto the Wheeler Creek Trail. The Ogden Nature Center and Fort Buenaventura also offer additional outdoor experiences. For more details, you can explore the Attractions in Weber County guide.