1.
Silver Quinn Trail loop from Highland Drive Trailhead Parking
20.1km
01:40
260m
260m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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The best traffic-free bike rides in Morgan County
By Fede from komoot
·
Updated May 27, 2026
If you've ever tried to plan gravel biking in Morgan County, you know how quickly the options can become overwhelming. It's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has ridden, mapped, and reviewed these trails, saving you the guesswork and pointing you straight to the best gravel biking in Morgan County.
Morgan County offers a fantastic mix of river parkways, natural preserves, and varied wooded terrain, making it a diverse playground for gravel riders. You'll find everything from easy, scenic paths to more challenging routes with significant elevation changes, often on traffic-free gravel bike trails. The landscape here truly feels like an escape, with open spaces and mountain backdrops defining the experience.
If you're looking for a challenge that's also the most popular no traffic gravel bike trail, we'd start with the Silver Quinn Trail loop from Highland Drive Trailhead Parking, a difficult 12.5 miles (20.1 km) route with significant climbing. For a more relaxed, easy gravel bike trail that still offers beautiful scenery, the Ice Tunnel – Swaner Nature Preserve loop from Kimball Junction Transit Center is a fantastic 9.2 miles (14.7 km) option. With an average 5.0-star rating from our community, you can trust these routes are worth exploring.
If you only do 3 of these routes
Compare these routes at a glance
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silver Quinn Trail loop from Highland Drive Trailhead Parking | 20.1 km | 260 m | Hard |
| McPolin Barn – Hat Trick Trail loop from Sunny Slopes Trailhead | 40.6 km | 390 m | Moderate |
| Ice Tunnel – Swaner Nature Preserve loop from Kimball Junction Transit Center | 14.8 km | 100 m | Easy |
| Weber River Parkway – Ogden River loop from Uintah | 44.9 km | 380 m | Moderate |
| McPolin Barn – Swaner Nature Preserve loop from Awards bus stop | 35.9 km | 450 m | Hard |
2.
McPolin Barn – Hat Trick Trail loop from Sunny Slopes Trailhead
40.6km
02:37
390m
390m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
3.
Ice Tunnel – Swaner Nature Preserve loop from Kimball Junction Transit Center
14.8km
00:55
100m
100m
If you're seeking a tranquil and accessible gravel biking experience near Park City, the Ice Tunnel – Swaner Nature Preserve loop delivers a delightful ride. This easy 9.2-mile (14.8 km) route, with a modest 313 feet (95 metres) of elevation gain, guides you through the scenic Swaner Nature Preserve, offering glimpses of wetlands, sagebrush, and diverse wildlife like sandhill cranes. You'll enjoy a mix of paved and gravel paths, providing a smooth and engaging journey that takes approximately 54 minutes to complete.
Starting conveniently from the Kimball Junction Transit Center, this route is perfect for those looking for family friendly gravel biking near Kimball Junction. Parking is available at the transit center, and public transport options make it easy to access the trailhead. While the trails are maintained year-round, consider visiting in the fall for spectacular views of changing leaves, and be mindful that you'll be sharing the path with walkers and other users.
The Swaner Nature Preserve is a true natural gem, showcasing valuable wetlands and sagebrush shrubland that support a rich ecosystem. Beyond the cycling, the preserve also features the EcoCenter, an educational hub where you can learn more about the local environment and wildlife. This area is celebrated for its extensive and well-maintained trail system, seamlessly connecting urban convenience with natural beauty, making it a notable destination for gravel biking enthusiasts in the region.
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4.
Weber River Parkway – Ogden River loop from Uintah
44.9km
02:51
380m
380m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.
McPolin Barn – Swaner Nature Preserve loop from Awards bus stop
35.9km
02:27
450m
450m
This gravel biking loop connects two of Park City's most iconic landmarks, the historic McPolin Barn and the expansive Swaner Nature Preserve, offering a dynamic ride through varied landscapes. You'll traverse open fields, pass through critical wetland habitats, and enjoy panoramic mountain views, with the striking white barn providing a picturesque backdrop. Expect a mix of paved and gravel paths, with some sections offering a more rugged feel, making it a rewarding journey for those who appreciate diverse terrain.
Starting from the Awards bus stop, this route is easily accessible via Park City's public transit, which accommodates bikes. The 22.3-mile (35.9 km) loop features 1493 feet (455 metres) of elevation gain and takes approximately 2 hours and 26 minutes, rated as difficult. Be prepared for varied surface conditions, as some areas might be looser gravel or even muddy depending on recent weather. Fall is an especially beautiful time to ride, with vibrant autumn colors enhancing the scenery.
The Swaner Nature Preserve is a 1,200-acre sanctuary protecting vital wetlands and sagebrush uplands, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting, particularly birds and even moose. The McPolin Barn, built in the 1920s without nails, stands as a testament to the region's agricultural heritage. This loop provides a fantastic way to experience Park City's world-class trail system, blending natural beauty with historical significance.
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Tips from the Community
City Park is beautiful, with ample green space, art displays, and breathtaking views. The park includes several large lawns that are ideal for a lovely picnic. There are also ball fields, basketball and volleyball courts, and restrooms, making it an excellent afternoon spot on a sunny day.
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mtm05005
May 16, 2025, Union Pacific Rail Trail
The Union Pacific Rail Trail is an almost 27-mile trail that runs from Park City to Echo. While it is a popular spot for hiking and biking, but there is a good chance you will have the trail to yourself. The trail is mostly gravel, but this section in Park City is paved.
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maniboyflex
January 19, 2025, Park City Murals Tunnel
Park City Ski Resort is a top destination for both mountain biking and bike touring. The resort offers a mix of lift-served trails for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced, as well as scenic routes that connect to the extensive bike network in the area. It’s a great base for exploring the stunning mountain landscapes, whether you’re tackling challenging singletrack or enjoying a touring adventure through the surrounding terrain. Check trail conditions and lift schedules ahead of your visit.
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mtm05005
December 23, 2024, Hat Trick Trail
The Hat Trick Trail is a great trail through Round Valley. The trail is compacted gravel and is wide, so it is perfect for a gravel bike. There is some elevation change, but the inclines are well graded.
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mtm05005
December 23, 2024, Silver Quinn Trail
The Silver Quinn Trail is a paved trail that runs north of Park City. It is almost 4 miles long and connects with some off-road trails if you want to extend your ride.
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Bridger
September 25, 2024, 21st Street Pond (Goode Ski Lake)
This is a great option for a walk and even bringing fishing equipment. You have access to the pond as well as the river. The path is getting a little older, so be prepared for bumps and cracks, but still in decent condition. A great location to take a break for 30 minutes or even a few hours.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available in Morgan County?
Our guide features 3 carefully selected no-traffic gravel bike trails in Morgan County, offering a range of experiences from moderate to difficult. These routes are designed to keep you away from vehicular traffic, providing a peaceful and immersive ride.
Are there any beginner-friendly no-traffic gravel bike trails in Morgan County?
While our current selection leans towards moderate and difficult routes, the region of Morgan County, particularly in West Virginia, is known for its diverse trail networks. Some areas, like sections of the C&O Canal Towpath within Green Ridge State Forest, offer more beginner-friendly, crushed cinder rail trails. For routes in this guide, the Swaner Nature Preserve – McPolin Barn loop from Awards bus stop is a moderate option that provides a good challenge without being overly technical.
What about more challenging no-traffic gravel routes in Morgan County?
For those seeking a more demanding ride, Morgan County offers several challenging no-traffic gravel routes. The Silver Quinn Trail loop from Highland Drive Trailhead Parking and the McPolin Barn – Swaner Nature Preserve loop from Awards bus stop are both rated as difficult, featuring significant elevation changes and longer distances to test your endurance.
Can I find circular no-traffic gravel bike routes in Morgan County?
Yes, all the no-traffic gravel bike trails in this guide are circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Silver Quinn Trail loop from Highland Drive Trailhead Parking (20.1 km) and the Weber River Parkway – Ogden River loop from Uintah (45 km).
Are these trails suitable for families?
The trails in this guide are generally rated moderate to difficult, which might be challenging for younger children or less experienced family members. However, Morgan County, Indiana, for instance, has parks like Burkhart Creek Park with gravel surface trails that wind through prairies and wetlands, which could be more suitable for a family outing. Always check the specific route details and difficulty before heading out with your family.
Where can I park when visiting these no-traffic gravel trails?
Parking availability varies by trail. For instance, the Silver Quinn Trail loop explicitly mentions starting from "Highland Drive Trailhead Parking," indicating a designated parking area. For other routes, it's advisable to check the tour details on komoot for specific parking information or look for public parking near the listed starting points.
Are there any interesting sights or landmarks along these routes?
Yes, Morgan County offers several points of interest. Along or near some of these routes, you might encounter highlights such as Big Mountain Pass, which offers scenic views, or sections of the historic Mormon Pioneer Trail. These provide a glimpse into the region's natural beauty and history.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Morgan County?
The diverse landscapes of Morgan County make it enjoyable across seasons. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with wildflowers in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. Summer can be warm, so early morning rides are recommended. Winter riding is possible, especially on well-maintained gravel roads, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potential snow or ice, particularly in more rugged areas like those found in Morgan County, West Virginia.
How do other gravel bikers rate the experience in Morgan County?
The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Morgan County, with an average score of 5.0 stars based on user reviews. Riders often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the trails and the beautiful natural surroundings, making for a truly immersive outdoor adventure.
Are there options for accessing these trails via public transport?
Some routes, like the Swaner Nature Preserve – McPolin Barn loop and the McPolin Barn – Swaner Nature Preserve loop, are listed as starting from an "Awards bus stop," suggesting public transport access is available for those specific routes. For other trails, public transport options may be limited, and it's best to check local transit schedules and routes in advance.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on these no-traffic gravel trails?
Morgan County offers a varied landscape. In areas like Morgan County, West Virginia, you'll find rugged, heavily wooded terrain and extensive trail networks, often through Appalachian forests. Morgan County, Indiana, features trails winding through prairies, wetlands, and forests, known for wildflowers and diverse wildlife. Expect a mix of dirt and gravel roads, and sometimes crushed cinder paths, providing a true backcountry feel.
Can I bring my dog on these gravel trails?
While many outdoor enthusiasts enjoy bringing their dogs, policies can vary by specific trail or park. For example, some state parks or nature preserves may have leash requirements or restrictions on certain trails. It's always best to check the specific rules and regulations for the particular trail or park you plan to visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both you and your dog.
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