Emigration Canyon Cycle Route

The route is easily accessible from downtown Salt Lake City and the University of Utah area. You can typically find parking near the canyon's entrance, which is close to the city. There is also a state park at the canyon's entrance that commemorates its historical significance, which may offer parking options.

The route is considered

moderate

The route is suitable for cycling for most of the year, as the road is regularly plowed and maintained. Only extreme snow events cause temporary closures. For a quieter experience with less vehicular traffic, Sunday mornings are often recommended.

There is no mention of permits or entrance fees required to cycle the Emigration Canyon Cycle Route itself. However, if you park in a specific state park area at the canyon's entrance, standard park fees might apply.

The Emigration Canyon Cycle Route is primarily an out-and-back route. It spans approximately 8 miles from the canyon mouth to the Little Mountain Summit, making it about 16 miles round trip.

The scenery evolves as you ascend. The lower sections pass through residential areas, gradually transitioning to views of the open Wasatch Mountains. The upper switchbacks and the summit offer scenic vistas of the canyon, Salt Lake City to the west, and the View of Mountain Dell Reservoir to the east. You might also spot some wildlife.

Yes,

Ruth's Diner

Emigration Canyon is a very popular cycling route, and motorists are generally accustomed to the high volume of cyclists. It typically experiences less car traffic and has lower speed limits compared to other canyons like Big Cottonwood, and offers a better shoulder than Little Cottonwood Canyon, contributing to a safer cycling experience. Sunday mornings are often the quietest for vehicular traffic.

The canyon holds significant historical importance as the path taken by Mormon settlers, led by Brigham Young, when they first entered the Salt Lake Valley in 1847. A state park at the canyon's entrance commemorates this event. It was also part of the historic Pony Express route.

Yes, for those seeking a longer and more challenging ride, the route can be extended past the Little Mountain Summit towards Parley's Canyon, or even further to the Big Mountain Summit, which adds another 1,600 feet of elevation gain over 7 miles.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Donner Reed Party and Mormon Pioneer Trail, Wagner Spring Trail, Bonneville Shoreline Trail - Mount Wire Section, Emigration East Access, and Little Mountain Trail.