6 Most Bike-Friendly Towns in Utah
Biking is one of the best forms of exercise. Not only is it an excellent way to improve your physical health while being cost-effective, it also boosts your mental health! A study showed biking outdoors boosted older adults' cognitive function and overall well-being. Now, imagine cycling in the Beehive State, where you can choose from 3,752 cycle routes. And the best part? Many of these tracks showcase Utah's breathtaking natural scenery with majestic mountains and awe-inspiring geological formations, in addition to towns boasting well-connected streets near vibrant commercial areas. This article will highlight the top six bike-friendly towns in Utah.
Moab
Moab is an outdoor lovers paradise and is considered a mecca for mountain bikers. Out of the many excellent options available, Lions Park and Bike Path Trailhead is regarded as the cream of the crop thanks to the stunning vistas it provides on miles of paved trails. The combination of riverfront views, colorful rock formations, and accessibility makes it an ideal choice to break a sweat and enjoy the outdoors. Other paths worth exploring include the Slickrock Moab Trail, Porcupine Rim Trail, and the Moab Rim Trail. Aside from top-notch tracks, there are other landmarks worth checking out, such as the Moab Museum, which sheds light on the rich history of the region through permanent and temporary exhibitions, as well as the 120-foot-tall Faux Falls, Morning Glory Arch, and Double Arch—each sculpted over millions of years through natural erosions.
Park City
With over 400 miles of diverse terrain, Park City provides a rich variety of adventurous routes. Farm Trail is particularly appealing since it's well-maintained and free from pesky vehicles and crowd disruptions, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride. Furthermore, it bestows stunning views of nearby slopes and lush woodlands, and you may even see local wildlife during your expedition. For a more controlled environment within town, test your skills at Creekside Bike Park—it's free to attend and offers all the hills and obstacles you need to push your limits and have fun. Unbeknownst to most, Park City earned the prestigious Gold Level Ride Center designation from the International Mountain Biking Association given the surplus of trails, so be sure to explore each one to see why this town was awarded such a prestigous title. Not to mention, this town's Main Street is home to tons of eateries, cafes, and art galleries that are easily accessible by walking or biking.
Logan
Love scenic skylines and towering mountains? Logan is calling your name. This vibrant college town is within proximity to Bear River Mountains and Logan Peak, which reaches a gigantic 9,710 feet—to put that in perspective, that's roughly 8.8 Empire State Buildings stacked on top of each other! Take advantage of Logan's natural beauty by embarking on the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, a four-mile trail frequented by runners, hikers, and mountain bikers. Based on several anecdotes, the trail is known for being peaceuful and offers access to the alluring Logan Canyon. Another popular trail nearby is the Ridgeline Trail, a challenging and rugged path for advanced riders that provides spellbinding views of Cache Valley. Aside from being blessed with mesmerizing mountains, Logan was regarded as the most educated town in Utah Insurify, so be sure to take advantage of the many local cafes visited by the town's brainiacs, including the highly-rated Caffe Ibis Gallery Cafe, Grounds for Coffee, and The Westside Coffee Company.
Cedar City
Cedar City draws visitors from all over the world. For starters, it is nicknamed "Festival City" thanks to the many cultural and artistic festivals it hosts, including the esteemed Utah Shakespeare Festival. Additionally, it serves as a gateway to multiple national parks and monuments, including Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and Cedar Breaks National Monument. But perhaps the most exciting aspect of Cedar City for bike lovers is the Three Peaks Mountain Biking Trailhead, where you can put your riding abilities to the test. This location grants a vast network of trails through the mountains, offering captivating views of Utah's natural beauty, with the added bonus of a supportive cycling community if you need any pointers. However, if you're seeking a more urban setting, Ann J. Gardner Canyon Park grants a tranquil environment to hit the pedals, with tons of shady spots underneath trees to relax and conveniently, it's three minutes from the nearest eatery, The Pizza Factory, to refuel after you're finished riding. Cedar City is also home to several famous landmarks and events, including the Southern Utah Museum of Art, Frontier Homestead State Park Museum, and the Utah Shakespeare Festival, which begins in June and concludes in October.
Heber City
Heber City stands out from other towns listed so far, as it offers a mix of natural beauty and a ton of historic spots to explore. Start your adventure at the charming Heber Valley Railroad, a historic railroad that attracts 110,000 passengers annually who embark on scenic train rides through Provo Canyon and Deer Creek areas. Afterward, hop on a bike and trek Heber's Main Street to Riverview Trail, a 5.2-mile-long trail that gives stunning views from 600 feet above, while being connected to other routes such as the Coyote Loop—a longer trail for seasoned veterans. And finally, since Labor Day is just around the corner, check out the Midway Swiss Days Festival! It's the second largest festival in Utah and offers countless avenues to meet locals and have fun by partaking in a 10k race, in addition to exploring outdoor crafts and vendors from the local area and beyond.
St. George
Last but certainly not least is St. George—a popular town among the cycling community and photography community for its dramatic sandstone formations and scenic canyons. Pedal your way through the landscape and explore New Bearclaw Poppy Navajo Trailhead, Virgin River Trail, and the Quail Creek Hiking and Mountain Bike Trail. The latter grants unreal views of the towering pines and the nearby blue waters of Quail Creek Campground. And minutes away, the Sand Hollow State Park sits on 20,000 acres and is home to awe-inspiring dunes that attracts the aforementioned communities. St. George also houses a plethora of historic buildings near the downtown area, including the Brigham and Amelia Young Home, Pioneer Courthouse, and Pioneer Cabin, which pay homage to the significant role early Mormon pioneers played in the early development of the town's history.
In conclusion, the Beehive State offers endless opportunities to get out on your bike and see its magical landscapes while breaking a sweat. Where it's touring the mesmirizing trails in Moab or the diverse trails in Park City, Utah has something to offer every biking enthusiast—as well as unique landmarks, historic sites, and amenities that comes with every town to ensure you have an enjoyable experience.
