Parley's and Bonneville Shoreline Trail Loop

The terrain on this loop is quite varied. You'll experience smooth, paved surfaces on much of Parley's Trail, which is a multi-use path. However, when you transition to sections of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, expect natural surfaces like hard-packed dirt, occasional stones, roots, and even some easy rocky sections. Some parts might be singletrack or doubletrack, so be prepared for a mix of surfaces.

While Parley's Trail is generally easy and family-friendly, the overall loop is rated as moderate due to the inclusion of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail. The BST has sections with significant elevation changes, varied surfaces, and some stiff climbing pitches. Beginners should be comfortable with mixed terrain and some climbing, or consider riding only the paved sections of Parley's Trail.

A popular starting point for this loop is near Sugar House Park, which offers ample parking. The route is highly accessible, with many trailheads near urban areas throughout the Salt Lake Valley, making it easy to join at various points.

The full loop is approximately 19.5 kilometers (12.1 miles) long with about 312 meters (1024 feet) of elevation gain. For touring cyclists, it typically takes around 1 hour and 19 minutes to complete, though this can vary based on your pace, stops, and specific sections of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail you choose to ride.

The loop offers a diverse range of scenery. Parley's Trail transitions from urban neighborhoods like Sugar House to more natural settings along Parley's Creek. The Bonneville Shoreline Trail provides panoramic views of the Salt Lake Valley, the Wasatch Mountains, and the Oquirrh Mountain Range. You'll pass through rolling hills with scrub oak and wildflowers, especially beautiful in spring.

Yes, the route passes by Sugar House Park, a well-known local amenity. The entire Bonneville Shoreline Trail itself is a significant landmark, tracing the ancient shoreline of prehistoric Lake Bonneville, offering unique geographical context and expansive views.

Yes, both Parley's Trail and sections of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail are generally dog-friendly. However, leash laws apply, and it's always best to check specific local regulations for each segment, especially in natural areas, to ensure compliance and safety for all trail users.

No, there are generally no permits or entrance fees required to cycle the Parley's Trail or the Bonneville Shoreline Trail. These are public multi-use trails accessible to everyone.

Spring and fall are generally the best times to cycle this loop, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. In spring, wildflowers bloom, and in fall, the foliage can be vibrant. Summer can be hot, especially on exposed sections of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, so an early morning or late afternoon ride is recommended. Winter cycling is possible but be prepared for snow and ice, particularly on the unpaved BST sections.

Yes, this route is a key connector. Parley's Trail is an important east-west link, connecting to the Jordan River Parkway Trail. The Bonneville Shoreline Trail itself is part of a larger vision to connect communities along the Wasatch Front for hundreds of miles. The route also passes through sections of the Parley's Trail, Kensington Avenue Neighborhood Byway Phase 2, Stratford Neighborhood Byway, Bonneville Shoreline Trail - I-80 Overpass Section, Foothill Drive Access, Bonneville Shoreline Trail Connector, Jack's Peak Alternate Trail, Old Parley's Road Trail, Bonneville Shoreline Trail - Parley's Pointe Section, 1300 East Multi-Use Path, Jack's Peak Trail, South Loop Trail, and Bonneville Shoreline Trail - Grandeur Peak Section.

Given the mixed terrain, a touring bicycle with good tire clearance or a gravel bike would be ideal. While Parley's Trail is paved, the unpaved sections of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail can be rough with dirt, rocks, and roots, making a road bike less suitable. A mountain bike would also work well, especially for the more rugged BST segments.