The best road cycling routes around Emigration Canyon

Emigration Canyon offers a diverse road cycling experience. The main stretch features 8 miles of smooth asphalt road, starting with a gentle, steady incline for the first 6 miles, which is great for warm-ups or beginners. The final 2 miles to Little Mountain Summit present a steeper grade for a more intense workout. Routes often pass through oak brush and evergreen forests, providing scenic views of the Salt Lake Valley and the Wasatch Mountains.

Yes, Emigration Canyon is welcoming for newer cyclists. The initial 6 miles of the canyon road offer a slight but steady incline, making it a manageable challenge. For a moderate ride, consider the Utah's Hogle Zoo – Parleys Canyon loop from South Campus, which is 16.2 miles long with less traffic and scenic sections.

Emigration Canyon's proximity to downtown Salt Lake City and the University of Utah allows many riders to start directly from home or school. For those driving, parking is typically available near the mouth of the canyon or at various points along the route, though specific parking lots are not detailed. Public transport options to the canyon's entrance are also available from Salt Lake City.

The canyon is generally accessible for road cycling for much of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with autumn showcasing vibrant oak brush and evergreen colors. Summer mornings are also popular to avoid the heat. It's always a good idea to check local conditions, especially during winter months, as higher elevations might experience snow or ice.

While the main canyon road has varying inclines, the initial 6 miles with a slight grade can be suitable for families looking for a manageable ride. The canyon generally has less car traffic and lower speed limits compared to other popular canyons, contributing to a safer experience. Always assess the specific route's difficulty and traffic conditions for your family's comfort level.

Road cyclists in Emigration Canyon are treated to picturesque views of the Salt Lake Valley to the west and the Wasatch Mountains. From Little Mountain Summit, you can see Mill Creek Ridge and Lookout Peak. The route also passes through the Wasatch National Forest. Historically significant sites include the route taken by early pioneers and the Pony Express. Near the canyon mouth, This is the Place State Park offers historical context.

Yes, Emigration Canyon offers a few notable establishments.

Ruth's Diner, a historic converted trolley car, is known for its creek-side dining. Additionally, Crompton's Roadside Attraction occasionally features live music. These spots provide convenient options for refreshments or a meal before or after your ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 10 reviews. Reviewers often praise the accessible canyon roads, the scenic vistas of the Salt Lake Valley, and the varied terrain that caters to both newer cyclists and experienced riders looking for intense workouts. The less crowded nature compared to other canyons is also frequently appreciated.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes can extend past Little Mountain towards Parley's Canyon, passing Little Dell and East Dell Reservoirs, or even push on to Big Mountain Summit, adding significant elevation gain. The Little Mountain Summit – Utah's Hogle Zoo loop from South Campus is a difficult 68.9-mile route with substantial elevation gain, while the Little Mountain Summit – Big Mountain Pass loop from University of Utah covers 54.2 miles through the Wasatch Mountains.

There are over 60 road cycling routes available in Emigration Canyon, offering a wide range of distances and difficulties. This includes 27 easy routes, 30 moderate routes, and 8 difficult routes, ensuring options for all skill levels.

Yes, Emigration Canyon offers several loop options for road cyclists. For example, the Utah's Hogle Zoo – Little Mountain Summit loop from South Campus provides a 33.9-mile loop, while the more challenging Big Mountain Pass – Little Mountain Summit loop from South Campus extends to 76.6 miles, offering extensive views and elevation.