Utah is a playground for anyone who loves the outdoors, with its mix of wild red rock landscapes and quiet mountain valleys. It is packed with some top-tier paved bike trails perfect for both hardcore cyclists and those just looking to enjoy a leisurely ride. From riding under massive sandstone cliffs to coasting by relaxing rivers or taking a scenic city tour, Utah’s got trails for every type of biker. In this quick guide, we’re highlighting the 13 best Utah paved bike trails from all across the state, promising more than just a ride but a full-on adventure. Whether you’re after a family-friendly bike path in Utah or a route with stunning views that’ll test your legs, we’ve got you covered. Grab your bike, hit up these paths, and discover why Utah’s biking scene is unbeatable.
Red Canyon Bike Path
- Location: Highway 12 Near Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
- Length: Approximately 8.6 miles
- Difficulty: Easy to moderately difficult
If biking through incredible red rock scenery sounds like your idea of a good time, you’re going to LOVE the Red Canyon Bike Path. The Red Canyon Bike Path, located near Bryce Canyon National Park, provides a safe, paved route that feels like you’re cycling through a natural wonderland, because you basically are. This path has a gradual downhill, making it an easy shuttle ride to get dropped off at the top and picked up at the bottom, OR a making it a workout for the legs to climb back up. We started riding this trail when our youngest was just 3 years old and our kids ask to ride it every time we’re in Bryce Canyon. Along the way, you’ll find several spots to stop, explore, and snap that perfect family photo, our favorite being the Red Canyon Tunnels.
The trail is part of the larger Dixie National Forest, offering a glimpse into the area’s stunning geological formations without the crowds of Bryce Canyon. It’s a fantastic way for families to immerse themselves in Southern Utah’s iconic red rock scenery. The Red Canyon visitors center is really well done so plan a stop there. You can go in and learn about the local geology, or if you have a bike lock, you can take a short hike right there (there are several hikes under 0.5 miles here). When you ride the Red Canyon bike path you’re embarking on an unforgettable journey through some of the most breathtaking landscapes Utah has to offer. Here is an article about some of our favorite bike trails in Bryce Canyon National Park.
Pa-rus Trail in Zion National Park
- Location: Zion National Park, Utah
- Length: 3.5 miles one way
- Difficulty: Easy
The Pa-rus Trail is Zion National Park’s invitation to families to get off the shuttle and explore Zion Canyon at a slower pace. This paved trail follows the Virgin River, offering stunning views of towering cliffs and access to the park’s main attractions. It’s our absolute FAVORITE way to see Zion National park since it gets you away from most of the crowds and gives you some incredible viewpoints. Wildlife sightings, from mule deer to wild turkeys, add an element of excitement to the ride. The trail is also wheelchair and stroller accessible, ensuring everyone in the family can enjoy the beauty of Zion together. Plus, the gentle grade makes it perfect for young cyclists or those new to biking.
If you’re feeling like taking on more of a challenge, bikes are allowed all the way up to the Temple of Sinewava, which is such a good way to explore Zion National Park. After the Pa’rus trail ends, you’ll be put on the road up the canyon. While that can sound daunting, the road is only open to shuttle buses and the occasional Zion Lodge guest, so there’s hardly any car traffic. The entire route from the visitor center to the end of the road is 8 miles long with a gradual uphill. This can be a long day for kids, but if you’re in good shape, there is no better ways to see Zion National Park.
Moab Canyon Paved Path
- Location: Moab, Utah, stretching from the Colorado River to the junction with Highway 313
- Length: About 8.3 miles one way
- Difficulty: Easy to moderately hard
The Moab Canyon Paved Path offers a different way to experience the rugged beauty of Moab, away from the dusty trails and technical terrain that’s typically associated with biking Moab. This paved path stretches from the Colorado River, past Arches National Park, and up to the junction with Highway 313 which leads towards Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park. It’s a gentle incline going up, making the return trip a breezy downhill ride. The main exception to this is that the trail gets pretty steep just after you pass Arches National Park. The path provides cyclists with panoramic views of the surrounding red rock landscape, without the need for a mountain bike or technical riding. It’s an excellent option for families looking for a safe and scenic way to explore the Moab area together. Along the route, there are several points of interest and opportunities to connect with other trails, making it an easy way to spend a good chunk of your day. We especially like stopping at Lions Park to play on the bouldering walls and cool down in the fountains.
If you are feeling confident in your riding and want to try your hand at some of Moab’s legendary singletrack, you’ll have a perfect chance when the trail gets up to the Bar M Trailhead. The easiest trail, Rusty Spur passes just over the path, and a slightly more difficult trail Lazy EZ is nearby as well. These are our favorite trails to introduce our kids to biking singletrack in Moab and they’re a great introduction to riding mountain bike trails in Moab. Here are more of our favorite bike trails in Moab.
Jordan River Parkway Trail
- Location: Salt Lake Valley
- Length: Over 40 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
The Jordan River Parkway trail is one of the best paved trails in the Salt Lake Valley with over 40 miles of trail. It’s a great way to escape the busy pace of the city and suburbia that’s just out of sight. It’s a green corridor in the urban landscape, where you can spot birds, enjoy the cool breeze off the water in the Jordan River, and take breaks at various parks along the way. The trail is paved and flat, making it a great Utah bike path for kids or those just getting comfortable on two wheels. Along the route, there are playgrounds to stop and let the kids play, making it a full-day adventure. The Jordan River Parkway is a great connector for families that want to bike around the Salt Lake Valley while avoiding busy roads.
McLeod Creek Paved Trail
- Location: Park City
- Length: 5.8 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
Park City’s McLeod Creek Trail is a gem for families looking to combine a bit of exercise with stunning natural beauty, and is our favorite way to get from Kimball Junction into downtown Park City. As you pedal the McLeod Creek Trail, you’ll be treated to views of wetlands where ducks glide across the water, aspen groves that rustle softly in the breeze, and open meadows where you can have a picnic. It’s pretty flat and well-maintained, which means even the youngest bikers can enjoy a good ride without getting too tired. What’s great is you’re never far from the city, so you can finish your ride with a stroll through town or a tasty treat from a local café, or our kids favorite stop- Java Cow. The trail’s beauty in fall is unmatched, with golden aspens lighting up the path. The McPollen Barn makes a great stop to learn a little about history and to grab some water or use the bathroom if you need it. The McLeod Creek Trail offers that perfect mix of nature, accessibility, and family-friendly adventure. If you are looking for places to stay in Park City these are some of our favorite.
Other Things to Do in Park City:
- Visit Park City’s FREE Museums
- 23 Fantastic Summer Activities for Families in Park City, Utah
- 7 Fun Park City and Heber Bike Trails For Kids
Provo River Parkway
- Location: Utah County, from Utah Lake to Vivian Park in Provo Canyon
- Length: 15 miles
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
The Provo River Parkway weaves its way from the shores of Utah Lake up into the heart of Provo Canyon, offering a ride that’s as varied as it is beautiful. You’ll pass by the iconic Bridal Veil Falls, where the mist cools you off on a hot day, and follow the river as it flows beside the trail. This path is mostly gentle but has a few spots that’ll give your legs a bit of a workout, making it a great way to introduce kids to more varied biking terrain. The climb up the canyon isn’t steep, but has a gradual incline that can wear your legs out after a while, so plan to stop for a snack at one of the many picnic spots or dip your toes in the river on a warm day. The trail is well-shaded in parts, providing relief in the summer months.
If you’re looking for some singletrack riding, stop at the Mt Timpanogos park where there’s a bike park on the north end. It has a variety of small practice loops that range from beginner to advanced that are great for all ages and abilities of riders. The park is also a great spot to stop for a picnic or you can go fishing.
Murdock Canal Trail
- Location: Lehi to Orem, Utah County, Utah
- Length: 17 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
Stretching from Lehi to Orem, the Murdock Canal Trail offers 17 miles of paved, family-friendly biking that showcases the beauty of Utah County. This trail is a testament to community effort, transforming the covered canal into a recreational pathway. It’s well-maintained and provides a safe, continuous ride with underpasses at major roads, eliminating the need for stops. The trail passes through residential areas, open fields, and alongside the canal, offering a variety of landscapes. It’s especially beautiful in the spring and fall when the surrounding mountains and fields change colors. The Murdock Canal Trail is perfect for families looking for a longer ride that’s still easy and enjoyable, and equally appeals to more serious cyclists looking for a ride where they don’t have to deal with crowds and traffic stops. It’s a great way to spend a day exploring the area, with plenty of spots to stop for a picnic or just enjoy the nice weather.
Coal Creek Paved Bike Trail in Cedar City
- Location: Cedar City, Utah
- Length: Approximately 3.5 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
The Coal Creek Paved Bike Trail offers a tranquil escape into nature, right from the heart of Cedar City. This trail meanders alongside Coal Creek, providing a cool, shaded path perfect for those hot summer days. It’s an easy ride, with just enough gentle slopes to keep it interesting for kids and adults alike. The trail also features several parks and picnic areas along the way, making it ideal for a leisurely day out with the family. In addition to its natural beauty, the trail offers educational opportunities, with interpretive signs detailing the area’s ecology and history.
If you’re looking to ride some Cedar City mountain bike trails, the Coal Creek trail is an excellent connector between the Iron Hills and Thunderbird Canyon trail systems. The Iron Hills trail system is especially fun for kids since there is a bike park at the bottom with lots of fun features like bridges, berms, skinnies and rollers.
Virgin River Parkway in St. George
- Location: St. George, Utah
- Length: Over 7 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
Winding its way through St. George, the Virgin River Parkway is a verdant oasis in the desert, offering miles of paved paths for biking and exploring. This trail hugs the Virgin River, providing not only scenic views but also a cool respite from the desert heat. It’s dotted with parks, playgrounds, and rest areas, making it easy to find spots for a break or a picnic. The trail is overall flat and smooth, suitable for even young kids, making it a popular choice for family outings as well as for older riders out for a leisurely bike ride through St George. Along the way, the parkway connects to several other trails and points of interest, including the St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site at Johnson Farm. Summer can get incredibly hot while biking the path, so we recommend only biking it in the early morning during the summer. If you are looking for places to stay in St. George we have gathered some of our favorite places here.
Snow Canyon State Park Path
- Location: Snow Canyon State Park, Utah
- Length: Approximately 5 miles within the park
- Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Nestled within the red rock landscape of Snow Canyon State Park, this paved path offers cyclists a unique opportunity to bike through ancient lava flows, towering sandstone cliffs, and serene desert landscapes. The trail starts out easy, with minimal elevation changes, making it accessible for families with children of all ages. As the trail progresses, it gets steeper and more difficult, proving why it’s the preferred cycling route for the Ironman World Championship rave in St George. As you ride, you’ll get a close-up view of the park’s diverse geology, including volcanic cones, sand dunes, and unique rock formations. The path is separate from the main road so you don’t have to worry about car traffic except at road crossings. Along the way, there are several spots to stop, explore on foot, and even climb on some of the rocks, which we highly recommend. There is a good amount of volcanic rock in Snow Canyon, so keep your bikes on the trail to protect your tires from damage. The contrast of the red rock against the blue sky is simply breathtaking, making it a visually stunning experience.
Legacy Parkway Trail in Davis County
- Location: Davis County, Utah
- Length: Approximately 14 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
The Legacy Parkway Trail runs parallel to the Legacy Parkway in Davis County, offering a scenic and serene biking experience away from traffic. This well-maintained, paved trail stretches for approximately 14 miles, providing views of the Wasatch Front, open fields, and wetlands teeming with birdlife. It’s an excellent trail for families, offering a flat and smooth path that’s perfect for riders of all ages and skill levels. The trail is known for its quiet beauty, offering a peaceful ride with only the sounds of nature and the occasional passing cyclist. Along the way, there are several rest areas and connection points to other trails, making it a versatile option for longer rides or short jaunts.
Ogden River Parkway
- Location: Ogden, Utah
- Length: Approximately 9.6 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
The Ogden River Parkway is one of the best paved bike trails in northern Utah. This paved trail stretches for miles, connecting the bustling downtown Ogden area with some great natural areas. It passes by waterfalls, through botanical gardens, and fantastic views of the Wasatch Mountain Range. The trail is mostly flat, making it an easy ride for families and a perfect way to spend a day outdoors, exploring the area’s natural and urban landscapes. Some of the best stops along this Ogden bike path are the Ogden Botanical Gardens and the 21st Street pond.
Historic Union Pacific Rail Trail Park City
- Location: Park City, Utah
- Length: Approximately 28 miles, including the gravel section
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
The Park City Rail Trail is a picturesque pathway that was created from a historic railroad route into a recreational haven for cyclists, runners, and outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. Stretching approximately 28 miles, it connects Park City with the peaceful countryside of Echo Reservoir. While a good majority of the trail goes along Interstate 80, since it’s set well below the road, you actually don’t hear much traffic at all. The path is predominantly paved in Park City, transitioning to a softer, crushed limestone as you venture further out. The paved sections are suitable for all types of bikes and even strollers but the limestone gravel will need a mountain or gravel bike.
The trail’s gentle gradient is perfect for families and cyclists looking for a longer leisurely ride, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the views of the Wasatch Mountains and ski resorts across the valley. Take note that the trail gently slopes away from Park City and that any riding that you do back will be slightly uphill. Many biking families overestimate what they can do and ride farther away, not realizing that they’ll be going back on an incline making the ride back harder. In the winter, portions of the trail are groomed for cross-country skiing, showcasing the area’s year-round appeal. The Park City Rail Trail is not just a path but a gateway to exploring the greater Park City area, with connections to other trails for those seeking more adventure.
As you can see, it’s clear that the state of Utah offers an unmatched mix of adventure and scenery for cyclists of all stripes. These Utah paved bike paths not only serve as gateways to exploring Utah’s stunning landscapes but also highlight the joy and accessibility of cycling. Whether you’re in search of a leisurely family ride or a challenging solo journey, Utah’s trails beckon with open arms. So, next time you’re thinking of where to pedal off to, remember: Utah’s diverse and scenic routes promise to elevate your biking experience to new heights and help you love riding a bike a little more each time you get out.