by Anna Ratliff
Summer usually means early runs to beat the heat. We’re lucky to have quick access to a lot of paths and running trails in the Salt Lake area. To escape the heinous heat during the summer months, I usually hit the trails. Here are some of my favorites, and a few tips to make sure you have the best experience.
The view from Dry Creek to City Creek
(Click on the links to get additional info and details via utah.com, saltlakemagazine.com, bonnevilleshorelinetrail.org, sltrib.com, cornercanyontrails.com, sugarhousepark.org, and slcgov.com)
Running Trails in the Salt Lake Area
Dry Creek: off Bonneville Shoreline trail area
Park at northeast JCC lot
Trail shaded in the evening until you reach the upper rim
Watch for bikers
Dogs allowed
Dog Lake: top of Millcreek Canyon
Dogs allowed
Canyon fee upon exiting
Difficulty: Moderate
Lamb’s Canyon: up Parley’s Canyon
Access into Millcreek Canyon
Mid-Mountain: trails around Deer Valley Resort
Difficulty: Difficult
Pipeline Trail: all along the north side of Millcreek Canyon
Access through Rattlesnake Trail, or the parking lot just below the gate
Dogs allowed
Canyon fee upon exiting
Corner Canyon: Draper
Gets crowded, watch for bikers
Weekly trail races with Wasatch Trail Run Series
Bell’s Canyon: Mouth of Little Cottonwood Canyon
Crowded, especially on weekends
Leads up to a waterfall
No dogs
Non-trail runs
Earlier or later in the day Sugarhouse Park and Liberty Park are both fantastic places to get some miles. Both have drinking fountains as well.
Jordan River Parkway: cooler in the mornings, a nice breeze of the river makes this run very enjoyable.
City Creek Canyon: a good mix of hills and flat stretches, also has a trail along the side.
*Regardless of the time of day, make sure to carry water and ID, and be sure to let someone know where you are.
Here’s a supplemental list of where to run in Salt Lake City.
Happy running!