Salt Lake City has created a new self-guided tour of the city for visitors and residents, a route of 13.5 miles that loops through downtown Salt Lake City, Liberty Park, and the Peace Gardens. It is anticipate to take about half a day to traverse the entire route. The new Green Bike Share program that provides bikes at convenient locations around downtown is perfect for tourists to ride the “Cycle The City” route. One can rent a bike for 24 hours for $5 and ride the fully signed route, enjoying some of the best that Salt Lake City has to offer.
The route passes near Gilgal Sculpture Garden (www.gilgalgarden.org) , at 749 E. 500 South, just four blocks east of the official route), a highly recommended stop. It drops down around Liberty Park and then heads west out to the Jordan River Parkway. The Parkway has become my favorite easy day ride, with no traffic and lots of birds.
An optional extra loop goes up and around City Creek Canyon, along a lovely creekside trail with spectacular views of the city. This extra loop also goes by the State Capitol before it returns downtown next to Temple Square. This signed trail promises to be a fine addition during the current “Year of the Bike” proclaimed by Salt Lake City Mayor Ralph Becker.
More information and a map is available at https://www.slc.gov/transportation/bike/cycle-the-city/ or by scanning the QR code found on route signs.
