When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Popperton Park Trail
Why Popperton Park Trail is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Popperton Park Trail, nestled in the upper Avenues area of Salt Lake City, Utah, offers a versatile outdoor experience ideal for meeting friends and enjoying nature together. The trail system features a combination of beginner-friendly mountain biking loops, easy hiking paths, and open grassy areas that create a welcoming environment for all skill levels. The park includes about 0.9 miles of mountain bike trails with mellow berms, rollers, and two downhill routes, making it an excellent choice for kids, novices, and those looking to develop biking skills in a safe, scenic locale. For walkers and hikers, the West Popperton Hiking Loop provides a gentle one-mile circuit through open space on the west side of Spring Gulch, perfect for casual strolls and jogging. Beyond trails, the park offers amenities such as shade and benches, drinking fountains, restrooms, and a community garden, enhancing comfort during visits. Its accessibility—with parking available on Popperton Park Way near Shriner's Hospital—and the connection to the larger Foothills trail system boost its appeal as a social meeting spot. Whether gathering for exercise, nature appreciation, or beginner mountain biking, Popperton Park Trail accommodates diverse group activities amid peaceful surroundings.
Here's what people think of Popperton Park Trail
As of recent, Popperton Park Trail holds a 3.5-star rating based on 6 reviews.
Reviews of Popperton Park Trail reflect a moderate overall rating of 3.5 stars from six users, indicating mixed experiences with the venue. Positive reviews often highlight the trail's suitability for beginner mountain bikers and families, praising the well-maintained flow trails such as Hop on Pop, Big Pop, and Lil Pop loops, which provide gentle climbs and fun descents. Visitors appreciate the trail's natural beauty, its shaded benches, and the community garden, noting that the park offers a safe, welcoming environment for newcomers to biking and hiking. The convenient parking and proximity to urban amenities also receive favorable mention. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to the trail's limited length and relatively modest challenge level, which may not satisfy more advanced bikers seeking extensive or technical singletrack riding. A few users also comment on occasional congestion or limited parking spots during peak times, as well as concerns about trail signage clarity. Despite these critiques, many agree that Popperton Park Trail serves its purpose as an accessible and enjoyable urban outdoor spot for beginners and casual visitors alike. In summary, while not a premier destination for experienced riders or hikers looking for long or difficult routes, Popperton Park Trail remains a valued community gem for light recreation and social meetups in Salt Lake City.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Mason Hulsberg
This west portion is the hiking only trail. This is a great, short trail to take the family on, and dogs are allowed on-leash only. I love how the trails weave in and out of small gullies. Most of all, you can see the entire Salt Lake Valley from here! I do not recall seeing any restrooms.
Steve Salazar
Horrible. Garbage and dog poop everywhere. Homeless camps. Trails are awful, no views. Avoid at all costs!
Sydney Hoffman
There is a parking lot I assume for hikers to use but it's outside the gates of the hill top community. There are no trees from the parking lot to the base of the trail. Extremely hot to travel uphill. Bring a lot of cold water.
Niels W
There's a separate hiking only and mountain bike only loop. Both are on trailforks. Good way to burn an hour, warmup for bobsled, or ride dry singletrack in the shoulder season.
K W
How to reach Popperton Park Trail
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Why Popperton Park Trail may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Popperton Park Trail with your friends? Popperton Park Trail offers an inviting mix of nature, recreation, and social opportunity that makes it an ideal gathering spot for friends and family. This park, nestled in Salt Lake City’s scenic Avenues neighborhood, provides a welcoming environment where everyone, from beginners to those more experienced, can enjoy outdoor activities together. Its blend of beginner-friendly mountain bike trails, gentle hiking routes, and open grassy areas encourages group participation without intimidating newcomers. Whether you are looking to bond through light exercise, share a picnic on the lawn, or simply relax outdoors in a shaded setting, Popperton Park Trail delivers a balance of activity and tranquility. The easy access and parking near Shriner’s Hospital add convenience, making it simple to coordinate group meetups. Aside from physical pursuits, the park’s community garden and benches offer opportunities for quieter moments and social conversations. In sum, Popperton Park Trail’s inclusive layout and diverse recreational options foster memorable experiences with your friends that strengthen relationships in a natural, friendly setting.
What activities are available at Popperton Park Trail?
Popperton Park Trail features a variety of activities tailored especially for small to medium groups looking for active yet accessible outdoor experiences. The mountain biking trails are a highlight, with beginner-friendly loops like South Pop and East Popperton trails — including “Hop on Pop,” “Big Pop,” and “Lil Pop.” These roughly one-mile loops include mellow berms, rollers, climbs, and descents that are perfect for riders new to the sport or families with children eager to learn biking skills in a supportive setting. Downhill routes add gentle thrill without overwhelming novices, encouraging everyone to challenge themselves while keeping the emphasis on fun and safety.
For groups who prefer hiking or walking, the West Popperton Hiking Loop offers about one mile of easy terrain through open space and mild elevation changes. This trail is foot-traffic only, ensuring a peaceful atmosphere for walkers, joggers, or those wanting to bring along pets on leash. The trail winds thoughtfully through natural surroundings while connecting with larger trail systems like the Foothills trail, providing options for extending your outing.
Beyond the trails, the park’s grassy lawn areas are ideal for socializing, lawn games, or picnics. Benches and shaded areas invite guests to rest and chat comfortably after physical activity. The presence of a community garden enriches the green environment, presenting a serene place to explore nature’s details or learn about local plants. Facilities such as restrooms and drinking fountains add convenience for longer stays.
How does Popperton Park Trail enhance group meetups and social gatherings?
Popperton Park Trail is perfectly suited for hosting group meetups because it offers versatile spaces and activities that naturally facilitate connection and engagement. The variety of trail types—biking, hiking, and flat walks—allows everyone from different fitness levels and interests to participate simultaneously, fostering inclusion. Group members can cycle together on the beginner mountain bike loops while others opt for hiking or relaxing on the lawn, then regroup easily at designated shaded benches or picnic areas.
The park’s layout with multiple trail options and open grassy spaces helps groups avoid crowding and noise, enhancing comfort and allowing conversations without competing with bustle. Ample shade and seating encourage lingering social interactions and casual conversations, perfect after a trail adventure or during a family picnic.
For groups with children or beginners, the gentle terrain and educational aspects of the biking trails invite shared learning moments, encouraging teamwork and mutual encouragement. The park’s rules banning electronic dirt bikes and emphasizing stewardship provide a calm, respectful atmosphere that benefits group cohesion.
Additionally, the park’s location near residential areas and parking on Popperton Park Way makes it accessible for spontaneous or planned meetups without the hassle of long travel or parking challenges. This ease encourages more frequent gatherings with friends, neighbors, or family, strengthening community ties.
What unique features make Popperton Park Trail stand out from other parks?
What truly distinguishes Popperton Park Trail is its intentional design focused on beginner and intermediate outdoor enthusiasts, creating an inclusive environment for those new to mountain biking and hiking. The specialized bike loops like “Hop on Pop” and “Big Pop” offer features such as berms and rollers that help riders build skills progressively, which is rare in many urban parks. This trail system also integrates with the larger Foothills trail network for those who want longer excursions.
The combination of open spaces and natural wooded ravines like Spring Gulch provides visitors with diverse ecological environments to explore, from grassy slopes to shaded forested segments. This diversity enriches the outdoor experience and supports wildlife sightings, including local birds and small mammals, adding a naturalist’s interest to your visit.
The park’s focus on stewardship and environmental education through programs like Be W.I.L.D. encourages groups not just to enjoy but also to care for the space, fostering a deeper connection to the community and nature. This blend of recreation, education, and conservation makes meetings at Popperton Park Trail meaningful beyond leisure.
How can groups plan their visit to Popperton Park Trail for the best experience?
To maximize your group’s enjoyment at Popperton Park Trail, consider planning activities that match the interests and abilities of your attendees. Begin by parking on Popperton Park Way near the east end of 11th Avenue, then utilize the paved path eastbound as a meeting point or starter route. Establish a meeting time early in the day to take advantage of the park’s hours—from sunrise to sunset—allowing plenty of daylight for activities.
For cycling groups, start with the beginner loops to warm up and build confidence, then decide if more adventurous members want to integrate sections of the Foothills trail for longer rides. Hiking groups or mixed-ability walkers should consider the West Popperton Hiking Loop or opt for shorter explorations in Spring Gulch.
Bring along essentials like water bottles (though the park offers a drinking fountain), sunscreen, snacks, and suitable clothing for variable weather. Plan breaks at shaded benches or the lawn for rest, conversation, and refreshments.
Finally, check the local weather and park rules beforehand, respecting guidelines such as the prohibition of electronic dirt bikes and ensuring pets are controlled. This preparation helps your group have a smooth, enjoyable day focused on friendship and outdoor fun.
What amenities support comfort and convenience at Popperton Park Trail?
Popperton Park Trail is equipped with valuable amenities that enhance comfort for groups and families. Restrooms on site allow visitors to stay longer and attend to needs without disruption. Drinking fountains provide hydration options, a key element for outdoor activity days. Shaded seating areas and benches are scattered throughout the park, offering convenient rest stops where groups can regroup or relax after cycling or hiking.
The park also has a community garden, which adds aesthetic beauty and serves as a conversation point or educational feature for visitors interested in local flora. The open grassy lawn space is ideal for setting down picnic blankets, hosting small games, or simply socializing in a casual atmosphere.
These amenities, combined with easy trail access and parking close by, create a visitor-friendly environment that supports group comfort and convenience, making Popperton Park Trail a reliable choice for a successful meetup.
Popperton Park Trail serves as a community treasure where social connection and nature-based recreation flourish side-by-side. Its beginner-friendly bike loops, scenic hiking paths, amenities, and accessible location draw diverse groups looking for natural fun and relaxation. Whether you want to rally friends for an active outing or a laid-back picnic, this park delivers options and spaces perfect for making lasting memories together.