City Creek Canyon
A stunning 5.9-mile paved road offering breathtaking city vistas and a popular escape for biking and hiking.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Car-free for cyclists!
City Creek Canyon
Best Time
Car-free for cyclists!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning 5.9-mile paved road offering breathtaking city vistas and a popular escape for biking and hiking.
"Escape the city and conquer the climb for incredible views in City Creek Canyon!"
🚗 Bike Days are Best
Prioritize visiting on City Creek Canyon Bike Days for a car-free biking experience.
⬆️ Prepare for the Climb
The road is a steady uphill. Be ready for a challenging but rewarding bike ride.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
City Creek Canyon Road
Main canyon road
A scenic 5.9-mile paved road offering stunning city vistas and a challenging climb.
Memory Grove Park
Entrance of City Creek Canyon
A tranquil park with memorials, perfect for a peaceful stroll or picnic.
Fall Colors
Throughout the canyon
Experience vibrant autumn foliage painting the canyon walls in breathtaking hues.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Know Before You Go: Road Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Bike Days are Best
Prioritize visiting on City Creek Canyon Bike Days for a car-free biking experience.
⬆️ Prepare for the Climb
The road is a steady uphill. Be ready for a challenging but rewarding bike ride.
🍂 Fall is Magical
The autumn colors are stunning, making it a prime time for photography and scenic drives.
💧 Trail Past Water Plant
The asphalt is rideable past the water plant, though slightly rougher.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Bike Days are Best
Prioritize visiting on City Creek Canyon Bike Days for a car-free biking experience.
⬆️ Prepare for the Climb
The road is a steady uphill. Be ready for a challenging but rewarding bike ride.
🍂 Fall is Magical
The autumn colors are stunning, making it a prime time for photography and scenic drives.
💧 Trail Past Water Plant
The asphalt is rideable past the water plant, though slightly rougher.
🚶♀️ Walk or Run
Popular for walkers and runners, offering great city views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about City Creek Canyon's accessibility from Salt Lake City, its stunning scenic beauty, and the exhilarating experience of biking on car-free days. The fall colors are a major draw, offering breathtaking views. Some find the uphill climb challenging, and parking can be limited during peak times.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
City Creek Canyon is conveniently located just west of downtown Salt Lake City. You can access the main road from the entrance near Memory Grove Park. It's a short drive or a longer walk from the city center.
Yes, there is parking available at the base of the canyon, particularly near Memory Grove Park. However, it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during Bike Days.
While there isn't direct public transportation into the canyon itself, you can take a bus or TRAX to downtown Salt Lake City and then walk or bike to the canyon entrance.
The main paved road is the primary access for hikers and bikers. For a more rugged experience, explore some of the side trails, but be aware of their conditions.
Yes, it's very close to downtown Salt Lake City attractions like Temple Square and the State Capitol. It's also a great starting point for exploring the Wasatch Mountains.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, City Creek Canyon is a public park and does not require an entrance ticket. Access is free for all visitors.
The canyon road is generally open year-round, but hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check local park information for the most up-to-date hours, especially for specific events like Bike Days.
City Creek Canyon Bike Days are special events where the road is closed to vehicles, allowing cyclists and pedestrians to enjoy it freely. These typically occur on select days during the summer. Check the official Salt Lake City Parks website for the schedule.
Parking at the base of the canyon is generally free, but it's advisable to confirm any temporary changes or event-specific parking fees.
There are no reservations for picnic spots within City Creek Canyon. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The main paved road is a steady uphill climb, making it moderately difficult for biking and strenuous for running. The terrain is paved and well-maintained for most of the 5.9 miles.
You might spot various birds, squirrels, and other small mammals. Keep a respectful distance and do not feed the wildlife.
Restroom facilities are available at the beginning of the canyon, near Memory Grove Park. There are limited facilities further up the canyon.
The paved road is generally suitable for strollers, especially in the lower sections. However, the incline can make pushing a stroller challenging.
Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes. If biking, ensure your bike is in good condition. Layers are recommended as temperatures can change.
📸 📸 Photography
The sweeping city vistas from higher elevations are fantastic. The changing light throughout the day creates beautiful scenes, especially during sunrise and sunset. Memory Grove Park also offers picturesque memorial shots.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. The golden hour can be particularly stunning.
Drone usage is typically restricted in city parks and natural areas to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check with Salt Lake City Parks and Recreation for specific regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive city views and canyon landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting.
Yes, Bike Days offer a unique opportunity to capture cyclists and families enjoying the car-free road, creating dynamic and lively photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water, as amenities within the canyon are limited. Consider a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the natural beauty. While the full 5.9-mile road might be a bit much for very young children to bike or walk, families can explore the lower sections and enjoy the scenery. The cooler temperatures in the canyon, especially during summer, can also be a welcome relief for families.
🚴 Cyclists
Even on days when the road is open to vehicles, many cyclists still enjoy the challenge. The road past the water plant is noted as being rideable, albeit slightly rougher.
🚶♀️ Walkers & Runners
Runners often use it for interval training or long-distance runs, while walkers enjoy the fresh air and the evolving city views as they ascend. Memory Grove Park at the base offers a gentler introduction, perfect for a warm-up or a less strenuous walk. The canyon's natural beauty, especially during the fall, adds an extra layer of enjoyment to any walk or run. Be mindful of cyclists and vehicles on days when the road is open to traffic, and always stay aware of your surroundings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Biking City Creek Canyon
Many cyclists find the ride to be a great workout, with a consistent incline that tests endurance. The road is generally well-maintained, though some users note that sections past the water treatment plant can be slightly rougher but still perfectly rideable on road bikes with skinny tires.
For those looking to extend their ride, the road continues beyond the main paved section, offering a more rugged, unpaved experience. This part of the trail is described as steeper but more shaded and enjoyable by some riders.
Experiencing City Creek Canyon in the Fall
The crisp autumn air adds to the pleasant atmosphere, making it perfect for hiking, biking, or simply enjoying a leisurely drive through the canyon. While the Bike Days are primarily a summer event, the fall colors can make even a drive with vehicle traffic a memorable experience. The contrast between the colorful foliage and the rugged canyon walls is particularly striking.
It's a popular time for locals and visitors alike to seek out the beauty of the changing seasons. Remember that fall weather can be unpredictable, so dressing in layers and checking the forecast is advisable. The vibrant colors typically peak in late September to mid-October, so plan your visit accordingly to catch the best of the autumn display.
Memory Grove Park: A Peaceful Start
The park itself is beautifully landscaped with mature trees, walking paths, and the gentle sound of the creek, making it a lovely spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. Many visitors enjoy spending time here before or after their canyon adventure, appreciating the tranquility and the patriotic tributes. It's a popular spot for families and individuals looking for a moment of calm amidst the natural beauty.
For photographers, Memory Grove Park offers a different kind of beauty compared to the sweeping vistas of the canyon. The intricate details of the memorials, the reflections in the water, and the park's natural greenery provide ample opportunities for creative shots. It's a well-maintained and accessible area that adds significant value to the City Creek Canyon experience.
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