The best traffic-free bike rides around Midway

This guide features 6 challenging no-traffic touring cycling routes around Midway. These routes are designed for experienced cyclists seeking significant elevation gains and immersive natural experiences.

Yes, all the no-traffic touring routes in this guide are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end your ride in the same location. For example, consider the Empire Pass Climb from Midway – Empire Pass Viewpoint loop from Midway, which offers a challenging circular journey.

The routes traverse diverse and scenic landscapes, including the foothills of the majestic Wasatch and Uinta Mountains, offering views of snow-capped peaks and dense forestland. You'll experience the panoramic vistas of the Heber Valley, with trails winding through aspen groves and open meadows. Routes also offer glimpses of natural features like Deer Creek Reservoir and historic orchards.

While the routes themselves offer continuous scenic beauty, you'll find stunning natural highlights nearby. Keep an eye out for views of Lake Catherine and Lake Martha. The routes also approach significant climbs like Empire Pass Climb from Midway and Guardsman Pass, which provide expansive vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

While the routes in this specific guide are rated as difficult, Midway does offer easier, traffic-free options suitable for families. The easy 7.5-mile "Sunset Deer Creek Bike Tour" provides gentle riding along Deer Creek Reservoir, and the Huber Grove Loop is an easy 3-mile ride through historic orchards. The Park City Rail Trail also offers a moderate, mostly flat 13-mile experience along a wetland nature preserve.

Midway is a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer provides warm, sunny days ideal for long rides. Even morning rides along Deer Creek are popular. For higher alpine routes, summer and early fall are generally best before snow arrives.

Dog policies vary by specific trail and land management. Generally, dogs are permitted on many outdoor trails in the Midway area, especially in national forest lands, but they should always be kept on a leash and you must clean up after them. Always check local regulations for the specific trail you plan to ride.

Parking is typically available at various trailheads and access points around Midway. For routes like the Cascade Springs – Deer Creek Overlook loop from Midway, you can often find designated parking areas near the start of the loop. It's advisable to check specific trailhead information or local visitor guides for the most convenient parking options.

Midway and the surrounding Heber Valley offer a variety of cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options ranging from hotels to vacation rentals. Many establishments are cyclist-friendly, especially in the main town areas, providing convenient stops before or after your ride.

Yes, bike rentals are available in Midway. Companies like Midway Adventure Company offer bike rentals, including e-mountain bikes, making it accessible for visitors to explore the area even without bringing their own equipment.

The routes in this guide primarily involve road cycling on paved surfaces, often on less-trafficked mountain roads. However, the broader Midway area also features diverse trail surfaces, including singletrack for mountain biking and paved rail trails like the Park City Rail Trail, offering varied experiences depending on your chosen route.

The no-traffic touring routes in this guide feature significant elevation gains, making them challenging. For instance, the Hardy Lake – Midway Reservoir loop from Midway involves over 800 meters of ascent, while the Cascade Springs – Deer Creek Overlook loop from Midway climbs over 1300 meters, providing substantial workouts and rewarding views.