Emigration Canyon Road was recommended by the local Trek shop in Salt Lake City - they said it's a classic training ride so I gave it a go in early spring 2021. It's super accessible from downtown - maybe a mile or two depending on where you're staying.
On to the ride...the climb is very gradual for the first ~6 miles (almost like a false flat) and then it picks up a bit but nothing too crazy. Shoulders are pretty wide but there are some tricky sections on the lower portion (before you reach the mountains). Probably best suited for warmer months to avoid black ice.
Beautiful views of the Wasatch Mountains and the Salt Lake Valley the whole way. If you want, you can pop down the back side (eastern side) of the climb and then come back up to add some more elevation to your ride. Equally as scenic on both sides.
The descent is fast. Take it slow on the first few corners then let it rip on the long downhill before easing on the breaks for the last bend that leads you back into SLC. The lower portion of Emigration Canyon Rd is a BLAST to ride back into the city - remember that false flat? Time to rip down it at 30+mph with minimal effort. Can't beat it!
Route details:
- 24.76 miles
- 2,275 ft elevation gain
Emigration Canyon climb details:
- 7.6 miles
- 1,297 ft elevation gain
- A pesky 3.2% avg grade
**Bonus**
For an amazing vegan sandwich (and cookie) - head over to Bud's - it'll taste even better after you crush Emigration Canyon.
Photos from Daniel Radel
Route by Daniel Radel