The best traffic-free bike rides around Draper

There are 6 dedicated traffic-free road cycling routes around Draper featured in this guide, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. These routes offer a great way to explore the area without vehicle interference.

Draper is nestled at the foot of the Wasatch Mountains, providing stunning views and varied terrain. The region boasts over 117 miles of scenic trails and 5,000 acres of open space, including extensive paved paths like the Jordan River Parkway and Draper Canal Trail, which are ideal for traffic-free road cycling. This infrastructure, combined with the natural beauty, creates an excellent environment for cyclists seeking quiet rides.

Yes, there are several easy options perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. For example, the Riverfront Parks – View of the Jordan River loop from Draper is an easy 41.9 km route with minimal elevation gain. Another great choice is the Riverfront Parks – Riverfront Parks loop from Draper, which is a shorter 17.8 km easy ride.

While this guide focuses on traffic-free routes, some offer a moderate challenge. The Jordan River Parkway Trail – Jordan River beach loop from Draper Town Center is a moderate 63 km route with over 400 meters of elevation gain, providing a longer and more demanding experience while remaining free of vehicle traffic.

Many routes offer captivating views of the Wasatch Range and the Jordan River. You might encounter natural features like the Bells Canyon Lower Falls or cross the impressive Bear Canyon suspension bridge. The North Canyon Road area also provides scenic climbs and panoramic vistas, though specific traffic-free routes may vary in their proximity to these exact points.

Yes, all the traffic-free road cycling routes in this guide are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. This includes routes like the Galena Soónkahni Preserve – Soónkahni Monument loop from Maverik and the Galena Soónkahni Preserve – Soónkahni Monument loop from Draper.

Many of the traffic-free routes utilize sections of the Jordan River Parkway Trail and other city trails. Parking is generally available at various access points along these parkways and at local parks in Draper. For specific parking information, it's advisable to check the Draper City Parks and Trails website: draperutah.gov.

Draper's trail networks, particularly the Jordan River Parkway, connect urban areas, making some sections accessible via public transport. While direct access to all trailheads might vary, Utah Transit Authority (UTA) services operate in the Salt Lake Valley. Cyclists can often combine public transport with short rides to reach trail starting points. Check UTA schedules and bike-on-bus/train policies for the most current information.

The spring and fall months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Draper, with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be hot, especially in the middle of the day, so early morning or late afternoon rides are recommended. While some paved trails may be accessible in winter, conditions can vary with snow and ice, so always check local weather and trail reports.

Absolutely! Many of the easy, paved routes are perfect for families. The shorter Riverfront Parks – Riverfront Parks loop from Draper is an excellent choice, offering a gentle ride through scenic park areas without the worry of vehicle traffic, making it safe and enjoyable for all ages.

While popular routes like the Jordan River Parkway are well-known, exploring sections that connect to smaller preserves or less-traveled park areas can feel like a hidden gem. The Galena Soónkahni Preserve – Soónkahni Monument loop from Maverik offers a unique experience through a preserve, providing a sense of discovery away from busier areas.