
Bonneville Shoreline Trail
A scenic trail tracing ancient lakebeds, offering stunning valley views and diverse terrain for hikers and bikers.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Bonneville Shoreline Trail
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic trail tracing ancient lakebeds, offering stunning valley views and diverse terrain for hikers and bikers.
"The best hike for non-hikers, offering adjustable distances and beautiful views!"

Adjustable Distance
This trail is perfect for any time commitment; easily adjust your distance to fit your schedule. :running:
Beginner Friendly Options
Head south from the museum for a mellow ride, or north for more challenging terrain. :bike:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Lake Bonneville Views
Various points along the trail
Trace the ancient shoreline of a prehistoric lake, offering stunning vistas of Cache Valley and surrounding mountains.

Salt Lake City Sunsets
South Davis County sections
Catch breathtaking golden hour views of Salt Lake City from this easily accessible trail. Perfect for a peaceful evening stroll.

Newly Developed Sections
Mueller Park Canyon
Explore recently added single-track and a new bridge, creating exciting new loops for bikers and runners.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Access & Regulations
Trail Conditions & Difficulty
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Adjustable Distance
This trail is perfect for any time commitment; easily adjust your distance to fit your schedule. :running:
Beginner Friendly Options
Head south from the museum for a mellow ride, or north for more challenging terrain. :bike:
Wildlife Management Areas
Be aware that a license might be needed for certain sections. Check regulations! :memo:
Great for All
Ideal for hikers, bikers, dog walkers, and anyone seeking nature. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
Adjustable Distance
This trail is perfect for any time commitment; easily adjust your distance to fit your schedule. :running:
Beginner Friendly Options
Head south from the museum for a mellow ride, or north for more challenging terrain. :bike:
Wildlife Management Areas
Be aware that a license might be needed for certain sections. Check regulations! :memo:
Great for All
Ideal for hikers, bikers, dog walkers, and anyone seeking nature. :dog:
History Buffs Rejoice
Learn about ancient Lake Bonneville as you traverse this historic path. :scroll:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Bonneville Shoreline Trail for its stunning views, accessibility, and versatility for various activities like hiking and biking. Many appreciate the ability to customize their experience by choosing different trail lengths and difficulty levels. Some users note that certain sections can be steep or rocky, and advise checking for specific regulations in Wildlife Management Areas.
"Steep trail. Beautiful view above USU."
shelove reyes
""
Jerad Peck
""
Sree P
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bonneville Shoreline Trail is a long, linear trail system that runs along the ancient shoreline of Lake Bonneville, primarily in Utah. It has numerous access points across different cities and canyons, including areas near Salt Lake City, Logan, and Highland.
Popular trailheads include the one near the Natural History Museum of Utah for city views, and various access points in Logan Canyon and Mueller Park Canyon. The best trailhead often depends on the specific section you want to explore.
Access via public transport can be limited depending on the trailhead. Some sections near urban areas might be reachable with a bus or TRAX connection followed by a walk or short ride to the trailhead. It's best to check local transit routes for specific access points.
Yes, most trailheads have parking available, though it can fill up, especially on weekends. Driving is the most common way to access the various sections of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail.
The Bonneville Shoreline Trail is extensive, stretching for many miles across different sections. You can choose to hike or bike a short segment or a longer portion depending on your desired distance and time.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, no ticket is required for general access to the Bonneville Shoreline Trail. However, be aware that some sections pass through Wildlife Management Areas where a hunting or fishing license might be necessary for entry.
Most of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail is free to access. Parking at some trailheads might be subject to local park fees, but the trail itself is typically open without charge.
The Bonneville Shoreline Trail is an outdoor public space and is generally accessible from dawn until dusk. There are no official operating hours, but it's advisable to be off the trail before dark for safety.
Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check local signage at trailheads for specific pet regulations.
Yes, many sections of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail are suitable for children, especially the flatter, more accessible parts. It's a great place for families to enjoy nature.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The terrain varies significantly. You'll find relatively flat and smooth sections ideal for easy walks and beginner biking, as well as steeper, rockier, and more technical parts that offer a challenge.
Expect stunning panoramic views of the Salt Lake Valley, surrounding mountain ranges, and the ancient shoreline bench. Some sections offer excellent vantage points for watching sunsets over the city.
Absolutely! The Bonneville Shoreline Trail is a popular spot for mountain biking, with many sections offering challenging single-track and varied terrain. New segments have also been added for enhanced biking experiences.
You might encounter various birds, including magpies and hummingbirds, as well as dragonflies. Keep an eye out for other local fauna, but always maintain a safe distance.
Restroom availability varies greatly depending on the trailhead. Larger, more developed trailheads might have facilities, but it's wise to come prepared or plan your stops accordingly.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for elevated points offering panoramic views of the Salt Lake Valley, especially during the golden hour for stunning sunset shots. The ancient shoreline bench itself provides unique geological backdrops.
Early mornings and late afternoons/evenings are ideal for photography. The soft light during these times enhances the landscape and city views, and can create beautiful golden hour effects.
Drone usage regulations can vary by location and park. It's essential to check with local authorities or park management regarding drone operation rules before flying your drone.
Popular shots include expansive valley views, sunset silhouettes, action shots of biking and running, and close-ups of the unique flora and fauna found along the trail.
While there aren't always distinct landmarks, the geological formations of the ancient lakebed and the sprawling cityscapes below serve as prominent photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for access points that lead to wider, smoother trails. The opportunity to see local wildlife like birds and dragonflies can also be a big hit with kids. Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, and consider a shorter, out-and-back route to keep the experience enjoyable for everyone.
🚴♀️ Mountain Bikers
Recent trail development has added even more exciting options, including new single-track and bridges that create fun loops. Whether you're a beginner looking for a mellow ride or an experienced rider seeking a challenge, you can find a section of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail to suit your skill level. Consulting a Bonneville Shoreline Trail map is highly recommended to plan your route and understand the terrain.
🏃♀️ Runners & Hikers
The trail's adjustable distance makes it ideal for all fitness levels. Early mornings are perfect for avoiding the heat and enjoying cooler temperatures, while evenings offer stunning sunset vistas over Salt Lake City. Be mindful of potential WMA regulations on certain sections, and always carry water.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geological Story of Lake Bonneville
Walking or biking along the Bonneville Shoreline Trail offers a unique opportunity to physically trace the history of this ancient body of water. You can observe the elevation changes and geological features that mark the different stages of the lake's existence. This makes the trail not just a recreational path, but also an outdoor classroom for understanding Utah's geological past.
Many visitors find it fascinating to imagine the vastness of Lake Bonneville while standing on these elevated benches. The trail provides a tangible connection to a time when the landscape was dramatically different, offering a sense of awe and perspective on the forces that shaped the region.
Navigating the Bonneville Shoreline Trail System
For those seeking a challenge, particularly mountain bikers and trail runners, there are steeper, more technical sections with varied terrain. Recent developments have added new single-track trails and bridges, creating exciting loops and expanding the riding and running opportunities. Always check a trail map before you go, as conditions and difficulty can change significantly between access points.
When planning your route, consider the Bonneville Shoreline Trail map to identify trailheads, parking, and the type of terrain you can expect. Some sections are known for their smooth, wide paths, while others are more rugged and require more careful navigation.
Wildlife and Regulations on the Trail
A crucial point for visitors to be aware of is that certain sections of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail pass through Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs). According to a new state law, accessing these WMAs may require a hunting or fishing license, even if you are simply hiking or running and not engaging in hunting or fishing activities. This has surprised some trail users.
Before heading out, it is highly recommended to check the latest regulations regarding WMA access. This ensures you are compliant with the law and can enjoy your time on the trail without any unexpected issues. Being informed helps maintain the integrity of these natural areas and ensures a positive experience for everyone.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit