When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Jordan River Parkway Trail
Why Jordan River Parkway Trail is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Jordan River Parkway Trail offers a unique outdoor experience stretching through Salt Lake County, connecting Utah Lake to the Great Salt Lake. Spanning approximately 45 miles, it presents a multi-use corridor that invites friends and families to explore diverse terrains, from urban neighborhoods to natural wetlands. This trail exemplifies an ideal meeting spot for friends seeking both recreation and natural beauty all year round. The Murray section alone features a five-mile paved trail with mile markers every 0.1 miles, catering to walkers, joggers, and cyclists. For equestrian enthusiasts, there’s a parallel equestrian trail, ensuring varied options for group activities. Visitors appreciate the trail’s accessibility, including barrier-free areas suitable for disabled users, picnic spots, canoe launches, and well-maintained park facilities. Different pavilions along the trail accommodate gatherings, enhancing its appeal as a social and recreational hub. Wildlife sightings, including deer, coyotes, and various bird species, add to the authentic nature experience. This trail’s combination of natural beauty, varied recreational options, and easy access from city streets makes it an excellent location for meetups and outdoor adventures.
Here's what people think of Jordan River Parkway Trail
As of recent, Jordan River Parkway Trail holds a 4.2-star rating based on 27 reviews.
Users generally rate the Jordan River Parkway Trail positively, appreciating its broad accessibility and natural diversity. Many reviews highlight the well-marked trail with accurate mile markers and the variety of landscapes encountered along the route—ranging from marshy wetlands to urban parks and golf courses. Positive feedback emphasizes the trail’s versatility for both casual outings and more active pursuits, such as biking or hiking, along with convenient amenities like picnic areas and canoe launches. Reviewers often praise the trail's well-maintained condition and safe environment for families and groups. On the other hand, some users express concerns about incomplete trail segments in certain areas, uneven maintenance due to jurisdictional differences, and occasional industrial or less scenic stretches that detract from the overall experience. A few reviewers note the need for improved signage in some parts and better connectivity between municipalities. Despite these concerns, the trail's extensive length and natural variety keep public sentiment generally favorable. Overall, the reviews depict the Jordan River Parkway Trail as a worthwhile and accessible destination for outdoor enthusiasts and social groups, offering both scenic beauty and practical amenities, with some room for enhancements in trail continuity and management consistency.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Chad Candland
Great trail. 52 miles long and joins with legacy. Multiple points bring in water from the various tunnels under the city. Also a great flood marker.
Angela Wright
We spent a couple of hours walking around this trail area. It’s nice and level so it’s an easy hike, plus there is a wide concrete path that you can walk on. There are also many other unpaved paths, if you want to get off of the man pathway. There are some areas where you can walk down to the edge of the Jordan River. My granddaughter and I searched for some rocks and she learned to skip rocks, while we were there. In some areas there were mallard drakes and hens, as well as, some wood ducks. There were also some Canadian geese in the water, so it was fun to watch them navigate in the water’s current. I gave a 4 star because the park bathroom was so bad, it was not even useable. Thankfully, there’s a Maverik first stop gas station a couple of minutes away.
Sam Brown
This trail has a lot of potential but is a mess. Trash, homeless camps, more trash in the rivers. I’ve gotten two flat tires on two different bike rides from large cracks in the pavement. The trail is nice through the neighborhood of rose park, it gets pretty bare and not much shade to the north and south and goes through some industrial areas. Hopefully officials will continue to monitor and keep a better eye on this area. Water on the river is pretty gross.
Jeff Rollins
Nice place for a walk or bicycle ride. Just stay north of 1000 N for now.
Dwight Collins
The trail is good north and south of Salt Lake City. But when the trail goes through Salt Lake City proper it is filthy, trash everywhere, homeless drinking and doing drugs. Going north I stopped at the Utah State Fair facility and turned around. I felt unsafe and the homeless where drinking, harassing people and smoking pot. (something needs to be done)
How to reach Jordan River Parkway Trail
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Why Jordan River Parkway Trail may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Jordan River Parkway Trail with your friends?
The Jordan River Parkway Trail stands out as a premier gathering spot for friends seeking both recreation and relaxation amid the natural beauty of Utah's urban and suburban landscapes. This trail is not just a path but an immersive experience that connects diverse environments—from bustling cityscapes near Salt Lake City to serene wetlands and parks farther south. The sheer length of the trail, extending over 60 miles along the Jordan River, makes it a versatile destination where groups of any size can find a perfect spot to meet, explore, and enjoy. The trail’s accessibility, with multiple trailheads offering parking, restrooms, picnic areas, and playgrounds, simplifies logistics for group outings. Moreover, the variety of activities supported—from hiking and biking to equestrian trails and canoe launches—caters to different interests within a group, ensuring everyone finds something enjoyable. Safety features like well-maintained paved paths and mile markers every 0.1 miles add to the appeal by providing structure and ease of navigation. The natural scenery interspersed with recreational facilities makes the Jordan River Parkway Trail a rewarding environment for bonding with friends through outdoor adventure or simple social moments in nature.
What activities can you do along the Jordan River Parkway Trail with a group?
The Jordan River Parkway Trail offers a wide array of activities perfect for groups, ensuring that everyone can engage in something fun and stimulating. At its core, the trail is ideal for hiking, walking, and jogging, with a paved surface that stretches around 5 to 60 miles depending on the section, which allows groups to tailor the length and intensity of their outing to their preferences. The trail is also favored by cyclists and rollerbladers who enjoy the relatively safe and scenic paved surfaces, enabling energetic meetups focused on fitness or leisure rides. Equestrian trails run parallel to the main paved path, offering horse riding opportunities for groups interested in this unique outdoor experience. For water enthusiasts, canoe launches along certain sections provide avenues for paddling and exploring the Jordan River itself, adding a water-based dimension to gatherings. Picnic areas and park facilities scattered along the trail invite groups to pause and enjoy communal meals or celebrations in nature, with pavilion rentals available for a more organized gathering setting. Additionally, golf enthusiasts benefit from the proximity to a golf course near Murray’s portion of the Parkway, catering to groups looking for a mix of physical activity and socializing. Overall, the variety of activities ensures the trail accommodates diverse tastes, making it a vibrant hub for friends and family meetups.
Why is Jordan River Parkway Trail perfect for group meetups?
Jordan River Parkway Trail’s design and amenities make it exceptionally well-suited for group meetups. First, the trail’s extensive length and multiple access points spread across various municipalities allow groups to select convenient meeting spots with ease. Many trailheads come equipped with parking, restrooms, and water fountains, reducing logistical hassles for groups arriving by car or public transit. The availability of picnic areas and rentable pavilions enhances the hosting possibilities, providing shelter and seating for social meals or celebrations. The mixed-use nature of the trail—integrating walking, biking, equestrian paths, and canoe launches—means groups can split up to pursue different activities and then regroup, making it inclusive for participants with varying energy levels or interests. Accessibility features such as barrier-free areas also accommodate members with disabilities, ensuring no one is left out. The natural setting alongside a flowing river and diverse terrain creates an atmosphere that fosters connection and relaxation. Additionally, proximity to urban centers allows quick access for attendees while still offering an escape from city noise and bustle. This combination of convenience, variety, and scenic appeal establishes the Jordan River Parkway Trail as an outstanding venue for memorable group gatherings.
What should groups know about safety and trail conditions?
While the Jordan River Parkway Trail is generally safe and well-maintained, groups should be mindful of some considerations to ensure a secure experience. The trail is used extensively, contributing to a well-populated environment that enhances safety through visibility and community presence. However, certain sections have reported issues like transient camps or other occasional disturbances, particularly after dark. Hence, groups are advised to avoid using the trail alone or during nighttime hours to minimize risk. The trail features mile markers every 0.1 miles and clear signage, which helps groups stay oriented and communicate meeting points effectively. Temporary closures may occur in segments undergoing environmental or safety upgrades, so checking current conditions before planning a visit is recommended. Additionally, the trail passes through a mix of urban and natural areas, so travelers should prepare for varied terrain, including paved surfaces and nearby marshy regions, by wearing appropriate footwear and carrying necessary supplies like water. Staying aware of surroundings and traveling together enhances safety and enjoyment for all group members. Overall, proper preparation and awareness enable safe, worry-free gatherings on this beautiful trail.
How accessible and convenient is Jordan River Parkway Trail for various types of groups?
Jordan River Parkway Trail is highly accessible and convenient for a wide range of groups thanks to its thoughtful amenities and location. The trail includes numerous trailheads with ample parking, restrooms, and water fountains, accommodating families, casual walkers, athletic clubs, and community groups alike. The multiple access points along the trail mean groups can plan short or extended outings as suits their schedules and abilities. For those with mobility challenges, the trail offers barrier-free sections and is fully accessible for people with disabilities, ensuring inclusive participation. The proximity of the trail to residential neighborhoods and urban centers like Salt Lake City makes it easy for friends or family to convene without lengthy travel. Public transportation options to some trailheads further ease access for those without cars. The availability of picnic pavilions for rent offers the convenience of a dedicated meeting space equipped for food and socializing. The diverse terrain—from city parks to natural wetlands—also provides varied environments that keep outings interesting. Combined, these features make the Jordan River Parkway Trail a flexible and welcoming destination for almost any group planning to rally outdoors.
What unique natural and cultural features can a group explore along the trail?
Beyond physical activities, the Jordan River Parkway Trail boasts an enriching blend of natural and cultural highlights that enhance group experiences. The trail meanders through different environments, including wetlands teeming with birds and wildlife such as deer, coyotes, and pheasants, making it an excellent spot for groups interested in nature watching and photography. The scenic views of the looming Wasatch Mountain range add stunning backdrops for casual strolls or group hikes. Many public parks along the route provide educational displays and historical landmarks that reveal the region’s heritage and connection to the Jordan River. Areas like the Jordan Narrows offer wide vistas and unique terrain changes that invite exploration and discovery for visitors of all ages. Cultural sites near the trail reflect local history and community life, adding depth to the outdoor experience. These natural and cultural elements make each group outing not only recreational but also an engaging opportunity to learn and connect with Utah’s environment and history.
How does Jordan River Parkway Trail support physical and mental wellness in group settings?
Hosting a meetup at the Jordan River Parkway Trail naturally promotes both physical and mental wellness, making it an ideal choice for groups wanting to combine social interaction with healthy living. The trail’s expansive, safe, and well-maintained paths encourage physical activity such as hiking, biking, jogging, or horseback riding, which help improve cardiovascular health, strength, and endurance. The variety of terrain and outdoor setting also support enhanced mental wellbeing by reducing stress and providing a calming connection with nature. Group activities on the trail foster community and social bonds, which are crucial for emotional health. Opportunities for picnics, leisurely walks, or simply relaxing by the river allow for restorative downtime that complements the more active pursuits. Access to fresh air and green spaces invigorates participants and can uplift mood. Whether a group aims to workout, unwind, or simply enjoy time together, the Jordan River Parkway Trail creates an environment conducive to overall wellness and happiness in a communal setting.
What provisions make Jordan River Parkway Trail environmentally friendly and sustainable for gatherings?
Environmental stewardship is a key focus along the Jordan River Parkway Trail, ensuring that group meetups occur in a setting that respects and preserves local ecosystems. The trail’s design integrates natural wetlands, riverbank habitats, and green spaces that support native wildlife populations. Efforts to maintain clean, litter-free areas and to educate visitors on responsible use help protect these fragile environments. Some sections are temporarily closed for environmental restoration to sustain the trail’s health and beauty. Facilities along the trail, from restrooms to picnic areas, are often designed with sustainability in mind, promoting waste reduction and water conservation. Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles during their visits. By providing a well-managed space where nature and community activities coexist responsibly, the Jordan River Parkway Trail supports sustainable recreation that future groups and generations can enjoy. This makes it a conscientious choice for gatherings that value environmental care alongside fun and friendship.