When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Parleys Trail
Why Parleys Trail is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Parleys Trail in Salt Lake City, Utah, is an exceptional outdoor destination perfect for meeting up with friends for hiking, biking, or a leisurely nature walk. Stretching approximately 8 miles, this well-maintained trail connects the Bonneville Shoreline Trail to the Provo-Jordan River Parkway, offering beautiful views of Parley's Canyon and the majestic Wasatch Mountains. Its diverse ecosystems include riparian zones, scrub oak forests, and lush vegetation throughout Parley’s Historic Nature Park. Along the trail, visitors can encounter local wildlife such as squirrels, rabbits, and red-tailed hawks, as well as an array of wildflowers, which add color especially in spring and early summer. The trail is family-friendly, popular among dog walkers, and includes off-leash zones for pets. Beyond natural beauty, the trail also features notable historical sites including a mid-1800s tollhouse, a wine cellar from 1864, and the remains of an 1888 aqueduct, providing an enriching experience for history enthusiasts. Parleys Trail’s well-marked paths and various access points make navigation easy and enjoyable, catering to a range of abilities from moderate hikers to casual strollers. Its strategic location in Salt Lake City makes it easily accessible and a rewarding place to connect with nature and friends.
Here's what people think of Parleys Trail
As of recent, Parleys Trail holds a 5-star rating based on 3 reviews.
User reviews for Parleys Trail highlight its scenic views, historical significance, and family-friendly environment as major positives. Reviewers appreciated the well-maintained paths, the opportunity to experience diverse natural settings, and the presence of historical landmarks that provide context to the region’s past. Many reviewers found the trail suitable for all skill levels, noting that the moderate elevation gain is manageable and the trail’s multiple access points and clear signage contribute to a pleasant hiking and biking experience. The trail's dog-friendly policy with off-leash areas was also frequently praised, making it a favorite spot for pet owners.
Positive reviews often mention the trail’s combination of natural beauty and historical features, the friendly atmosphere for families and pets, and the well-organized layout that connects different neighborhoods and local businesses. The accessibility through parking areas and public transit options creates convenience for visitors. In contrast, some negative remarks touched on occasional crowd levels, especially on weekends, which might affect the tranquility of the experience. A few users recommended that trail safety could be enhanced with more regular patrols or maintenance in some sections, although these concerns were not widespread.
Overall, the reviews indicate that Parleys Trail is a well-loved recreational area by the local community and visitors alike, praised largely for its scenic charm, historical interest, and suitability for social meetups and outdoor activities.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
scott stirling
Nice bike ride
Vicki Hiddleson
So crowded in that area. Business, condos and restaurants.
Taylor Thorpe
Love this trail!
How to reach Parleys Trail
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Website: None
Why Parleys Trail may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Parley's Trail with your friends? When looking for an outstanding venue to gather with friends or family, Parley's Trail stands out as a natural, vibrant, and accessible destination. This 8-mile continuous corridor offers more than just a pathway — it is a dynamic social and recreational hub that seamlessly connects urban life with scenic outdoor beauty. Imagine sharing moments while biking, walking, or simply exploring a trail that threads through eclectic neighborhoods like Sugar House and South Salt Lake, providing a refreshing breeze of nature amid cityscapes. The trail’s accessibility and multi-use design make it perfect for groups with diverse interests and fitness levels, allowing everyone to join in comfortably. Socializing while moving, enjoying the fresh air, and witnessing the blend of historical and cultural landmarks create a backdrop that naturally sparks conversation and shared memories. Furthermore, with recent enhancements including new bridges and connections completed in 2023, the trail is now safer and more contiguous than ever, ideal for a hassle-free, extended meet-up. For groups seeking an active, picturesque, and inclusive hangout spot, Parley’s Trail is truly unparalleled.
What activities can you enjoy together at Parley's Trail? Parley’s Trail offers a broad spectrum of activities tailored for groups, enhancing its appeal as a meetup spot. Primarily designed as a multi-use walking and biking path, it invites cycling enthusiasts to ride alongside each other, whether on casual rides or more intense fitness outings on its smooth paved surface. Those who prefer walking can enjoy leisurely strolls, allowing plenty of time to chat and enjoy each other’s company while taking in the views that accompany the trail—from urban murals and unique neighborhoods to glimpses of natural greenery. Additionally, the trail's connection to both the Bonneville Shoreline Trail and the Jordan River Parkway means groups can extend their adventure into nearby interconnected trails for a longer day out. The trail is well-suited to a variety of fitness levels, with mostly flat terrain that invites wheelchair users and families with kids or strollers to join. Seasonal activities also come into play, such as winter snowshoeing or fat tire biking on nearby groomed trails like Parley’s Lane Loop, widening options for those who like meeting year-round.
Why is Parley's Trail perfect for a group meetup? What sets Parley’s Trail apart for group gatherings is its thoughtful integration into the community and urban environment. The trail traverses diverse neighborhoods, allowing meetups to easily incorporate nearby cafes, restaurants, parks, and cultural spots into the itinerary, making it not just a trail walk but a multi-faceted social experience. The newly constructed bridges and tunnels provide continuous, safe access, eliminating gaps that previously fractured the path and reducing crossing hazards, which is a huge benefit for groups with varying ages and capabilities. Its urban proximity means transit and parking are convenient, lowering barriers for everyone involved. Throughout the trail, ample benches and rest stops create natural places for groups to pause, picnic, or simply soak up the atmosphere together. The trail’s design deliberately supports both recreation and commuting, encouraging spontaneous meetups for friends passing through for exercise or a scenic shortcut. Moreover, Parley’s Trail is surrounded by rich cultural and historical elements that make each visit educational as well as fun—perfect for groups who appreciate meaningful backdrops to their social time.
What are the key features and amenities available along Parley’s Trail? The trail stretches 8 miles from the Bonneville Shoreline Trail to the Jordan River Parkway, featuring a mostly paved surface that is easy for biking, walking, and running. It passes through neighborhoods like Sugar House and South Salt Lake, making urban amenities close at hand. Important recent developments include dedicated bridges and separated pathways that increase safety and accessibility, ensuring groups aren’t forced onto busy roads. The trail uses connections with transit lines like the S Line streetcar, enhancing access without driving. Several trailheads offer parking and restrooms, and benches placed strategically along the trail support group gatherings and rest breaks. The Parley’s Trail Alliance actively keeps the trail well-maintained and current, offering maps and updates that help groups plan outings tailored to their preferences. In winter months, nearby trails connected to Parley’s Lane Loop offer groomed options for Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, and fat-tire biking, making the area a year-round destination. Dog owners will appreciate that dogs are allowed on-leash, making it easy to include four-legged friends.
How can Parley's Trail accommodate diverse group interests and needs? One of the great strengths of Parley’s Trail is its inclusivity. The trail’s terrain is relatively flat, with a mix of separated paths and bike lanes, making it accessible to cyclists, walkers, joggers, and wheelchair users alike. The proximity to urban neighborhoods means groups can divide activities, for example some members might choose to bike while others take a casual stroll or explore community spots nearby. E-bikes are allowed on designated sections, enabling groups who want an assisted ride to participate fully. Families with kids will find the safe, low-traffic environment ideal for teaching young ones to bike or simply letting them roam safely. For groups interested in fitness, the trail presents a great option for running clubs or casual fitness walks. For more adventurous members, the nearby Parley’s Lane Loop offers winter multi-use trails with packed gravel and groomed areas for Nordic skiing and fat-tire biking. By providing facilities and connectivity for urban and nature-themed outings, Parley’s Trail offers something for every type of group.
What makes the social atmosphere on Parley’s Trail so engaging? Parley’s Trail is more than just a path — it’s a community gathering place. As the trail links vibrant neighborhoods, it naturally functions as a social artery connecting people from different backgrounds and interests. The presence of nearby cafes, cultural centers, and parks invites groups to extend their meetups beyond the trail into moments of food, art, and conversation. The trail hosts occasional community events, ribbon-cutting celebrations, and volunteer clean-up days that encourage interaction and bonding. Those seeking quiet conversations or lively chatter will find spaces conducive to both alongside the diversity of trail users. The natural views interspersed with urban environments offer a stimulating setting that elevates social experiences, providing memorable context for meetups with friends or family. Whether pausing at a park bench or crossing one of the new bridges, these shared experiences foster connection.
How does Parley’s Trail integrate safety and convenience for groups? Safety has been a prime focus in the trail’s recent upgrades. Major work completed by 2023, such as dedicated bridges at 900 West and the Jordan River, eliminates the risks associated with on-street crossings and helps groups feel secure. The continuous 8-mile paved trail reduces the need to navigate busy roads, while intersections with traffic are carefully managed. The trail features good lighting in some sections and clear signage, supporting both daytime and limited evening use. Convenient parking areas at multiple trailheads make group arrivals and departures easy, with public transit options reducing car dependency. The trail also prohibits motorized vehicles and enforces leash rules for dogs, contributing to a calm and controlled environment suitable for children and pets. These factors make Parley’s Trail a well-rounded choice for worry-free social outings.
What nearby attractions can enhance your visit to Parley’s Trail? Beyond the trail itself, the neighborhoods it connects offer a rich array of destinations to enrich your meetup. In Sugar House, for instance, you can explore boutique shops, eateries, and cozy coffee houses perfect for a post-walk treat. South Salt Lake provides cultural experiences including murals and community centers that reflect local heritage. Nearby parks and green spaces invite picnics or informal ball games, perfect for family gatherings. Access to transit and city amenities means your group can easily plan a multi-stop day combining the trail with urban exploration. For the outdoor enthusiasts, the closer proximity to the Bonneville Shoreline Trail offers mountainside hiking, and the Jordan River Parkway offers waterside walking. This variety means that Parley’s Trail is not simply a stand-alone location, but a gateway to a broader social and recreational adventure.
Why is Parley’s Trail an ideal choice for year-round group activities? Unlike many outdoor spaces that suffer from seasonal limitations, Parley’s Trail and its surrounding network can accommodate a wide range of weather and activity preferences. In warmer months, the paved trail shines as a biking and walking corridor surrounded by greenery and urban life. As temperatures drop, nearby snow-groomed trails at Parley’s Lane Loop invite activities like Nordic skiing and fat-tire biking, expanding the scope for winter meetups. Amenities such as restrooms and parking remain accessible year-round, and the urban connectivity helps groups adapt their plans based on the season. This versatility makes Parley’s Trail a dependable destination whether you want to plan a sunny-day picnic ride or a winter snowshoe outing. For groups that want reliability and diversity in their meet-up locations, this trail serves all seasons with equal grace.
In sum, Parley’s Trail offers an unmatched setting for group meetups with friends and family, combining accessibility, safety, diverse recreational options, and a vibrant social atmosphere. Its extensive urban and natural integration makes it a perfect place to rally, connect, and create shared memories throughout the year.