Emigration Canyon Miners Trail

The Emigration Canyon Miners Trail offers a dynamic mountain biking experience, starting with gentle grades before progressively challenging you with loose rocks and steep, rough sections. As you climb this difficult 7.0-mile (11.3 km) route, you'll pass through changing landscapes, from scrub oak to forested areas, and enjoy scenic overlooks of Red Butte Canyon and distant views of Salt Lake City. With 2038 feet (621 metres) of elevation gain, it's a workout that rewards you with varied terrain and impressive vistas.

Planning your ride on this trail is straightforward, given its proximity to downtown Salt Lake City. It's a popular spot, and you can bring your dog along, as some areas allow off-leash activity. While accessible year-round, the best time for Emigration Canyon mountain biking is from spring through fall; winter rides might require special gear due to snow. The trail's progressive difficulty means you can choose how far to push yourself, making it adaptable for different skill levels, though the full 1 hour and 34 minutes ride is a significant effort.

Beyond the ride itself, the Emigration Canyon area is rich in history, serving as a significant route for pioneers and the Pony Express. The Miners Trail specifically follows an old jeep trail used to access now-gated mines, with an old mine entrance still visible if you know where to look. This blend of natural beauty, historical context, and a challenging ride makes it a notable destination for mountain bikers in the Salt Lake City area.