Murdock Canal and Provo River Parkway Trails

Both the Murdock Canal Trail and the Provo River Parkway offer numerous parking options. The Murdock Canal Trail has established trailheads with parking approximately every three miles. For the Provo River Parkway, you'll find parking available at many of the parks it weaves through, from Utah Lake State Park up to Vivian Park in Provo Canyon.

Yes, dogs are permitted on the Provo River Parkway Trail, provided they are kept on a leash. While not explicitly stated for the Murdock Canal Trail, multi-use paths in the area generally require dogs to be leashed.

The Murdock Canal Trail is generally accessible year-round, with some sections even plowed in winter. For the Provo River Parkway, spring and fall are particularly scenic, with changing leaves in autumn offering beautiful views. Summer is also popular, but be prepared for warmer temperatures.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access or cycle on the Murdock Canal Trail or the Provo River Parkway Trail.

The Murdock Canal Trail is mostly flat with gentle inclines and descents, entirely paved with asphalt or concrete. The Provo River Parkway is also paved and generally easy, with a gradual incline when heading upstream into Provo Canyon and mostly flat or downhill towards Utah Lake. Some sections closer to Utah Lake on the Parkway have been noted for rougher asphalt.

Along the Murdock Canal Trail, you'll enjoy scenic views of the Wasatch Mountains and Utah Lake, as well as the unique experience of cycling over an enclosed canal. The Provo River Parkway offers continuous views of the Provo River and surrounding mountains, with a major highlight being Bridal Veil Falls in Provo Canyon. You'll also pass by Utah Lake State Park at the southern end of the Parkway.

Yes, both trails are well-equipped with amenities. The Murdock Canal Trail has established trailheads, restrooms, drinking water, and picnic areas approximately every three miles. The Provo River Parkway also weaves through numerous parks that offer restrooms, water, and picnic facilities.

While generally easy to moderate, some sections of the Murdock Canal Trail, particularly out of Lehi, include steeper descents and climbs. On the Provo River Parkway, the gradual climb into Provo Canyon is noticeable, and some older sections closer to Utah Lake have rougher asphalt and ruts, though improvements are ongoing.

Yes, this route is part of the larger 'Golden Spoke' network. The Murdock Canal Trail connects to the Jordan River Parkway Trail at its northern end and can link to the Provo River Parkway Trail at its southern end. The Provo River Parkway also integrates into this broader system, allowing for longer rides.

Yes, both trails are generally considered family-friendly. The Murdock Canal Trail features wide, paved paths, and the Provo River Parkway is also paved and considered wheelchair and stroller-friendly, making it suitable for various ages and abilities.

Along the Murdock Canal Trail, you might spot deer, rabbits, and various bird species amidst the native flora. The Provo River Parkway, following the river, offers opportunities to see associated wildlife, especially birds, and potentially other small animals in the more natural canyon sections.