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Print Friendly MapThe Porter Rockwell Trail runs between Pioneer Avenue in Sandy and Minuteman Drive at Point of the Mountain. The paved trail follows an abandoned rail corridor through the suburbs south of Salt Lake City and provide an important link for neighborhoods, schools, businesses, shopping and recreation.
There is one short break in the trail between E 12300 S and Park Road. Heading southbound, the trail picks up again at Park Road at Draper City Park (behind the library). Use Pioneer Road (E 12400 S) and S 970 E to link the disjointed segments.
From north to south, park at the train station lot between E 8800 S and E 8960 S; at the South Towne Exposition Center (9575 South State St. restrictions may apply); at Dewey Bluth Park (Sego Lily Dr @ 115 E); at Sandy City Dog Park (300 East 9980 South St.); or at Draper City Park (12500 South 1300 East).
I've ridden this trail on numerous occasions. I have a lot to say about it. First, let me say that I'm speaking to bikers; the trail would be too much for walkers and joggers. I've tried starting on the Porter Rockwell trail at the Northern most point, but, after several tries, I've concluded that the best spot to start is at Draper Park. There's good parking, bathrooms and an easy to find starting-out point. From the Park, of course it is a shorter route, but DON'T stop at the end of Porter Rockwell! Just continue straight ahead. The trail takes on a different name, and shortly thereafter, it moves away from Rte I-15 and gives you an awesome view of the activity on top of Point of the Mountain. The trail then continues along new housing on your left, and expansive views on the right. But again, don't stop. The trail goes past a relatively new tech building, and then, when it says End of Trail, turn right, go down the hill (go slowly, it is pretty steep), and follow the path to a new bridge (for bikes, etc., but not for motor vehicles) that crosses the #92 highway, and connects with the Murdock Canal Trail (for those of you who'd like to do another 18 miles one-way). Try it, I guarantee you'll love it. One more thing; the path is paved all the way, and is in excellent condition.
I saw some comments about cracks in the trail, and there certainly are. I ride a Mountain Bike - Ebike. The trail is significantly better than riding on the rocks and dirt. I like that once I am across 13th East and join the trail I don't have to cross a road and face auto traffic until after I am into Lehi. Great connecter to Utah County. There are streets to cross in the first mile or two, but once you are passed those, there is a lot to ride along.
Winds into Utah county (heading south) can be pretty strong, so just be aware, but when you ride back, you probably won't feel them.
I have enjoyed the rides and it is nice to see the Valley from a slightly elevated view. I also appreciate the 1/4 mile markings on the road to keep my brain engaged. Is it perfect? Not really, do I like it...well yes I do. Is it a good way to stay out of traffic? Yes it is.
Would I ride it on a recumbent bike, I don't think I would, pretty hard to be seen crossing 13200 south and then eventually 1300 East.
Back breaking cracks every 50 ft or so. Terrible street crossing that are nearly impossible to negotiate on a recumbent. This trail needs some serious maintenance and upgrades.
I didn't attempt the north section because in involves multiple street crossings and heavy traffic areas. I rode out-n-back only the south section (8.2 miles total). The first couple of miles southeast from Draper City Park are very pleasant with significant shade and gentle hills. The extreme south end has no shade and ends with a long steep uphill on a narrow concrete walkway rather than an asphalt multi-use trail. It's a good workout, but won't be counted among my favorites.
Too many streets to cross and Trax crossings
I went exploring to discover the Porter Rockwell trail now continues into Lehi. One can make their way to the Murdock Canal Trail though there is still construction and I can't find any updates. Since the frontage road is so dangerous, I'm very happy to see the extension. Hoping it's completed soon.
This is a really great family trail. We usually start at Draper Park at the trailhead across 1300 E. There are great shade trees and fun things to see, including a real life zebra, emus, and peacock. It’s a great trail for walking, scooters, and bikes. The last part of the trail, starting on the south side of 1300 E (near Highland Drive) has some fun rolling hills. We like to complete the ride by taking the Draper Canal trail for a complete loop. Lots of fun!
We started at Dewey Bluth Park in Sandy with our thee kids (5,4, and infant). The park was a great place to park with lots of shade, bathroom and playground. We left at 1p which was fine because it's October, but if it was midsummer it would be best to do this trail in the morning or evening hours. Awesome trail with some shade along the way.
We rode this for the first time from the train station on 700 to the dog park in Sandy. We were impressed with the trail and just as impressed with the park. We will be doing this trail again soon. looking forward to doing some of the other trails in Utah as well.
Trail is 1.9 miles along active UTA/TRAX & 3.2 miles along seldom used Tracks. Surface in good condition. Most Street crossings require going to nearest crosswalk, some with signals, some not. Between 11800 & 11900 a small gap requires using a Bike Lane on a none busy street. Trail very active. Noel Keller 27 Sep 2010
Trail is along RR right away but is not RR grade as it has many up and downs, two steep grades to street crossing N40.50389 W111.85284 & at Bangerter Pkwy. Trail continues 2 miles past Bangerter Pkwy. Surface in excellent condition. Great views . Follow the sign at Bangerter Pkwy to return on the Draper Canal Trail, an even grade with great views of Salt Lake Valley. Several connector trails between the two trails. Draper City Park has water & Comfort Stations. Noel Keller 27 Sep 10
Trail update June 2010: the trail now continues southwest and terminates at point of the mountain, near minute man drive(gravel pit), making the total length of park(starting at Draper Park) 12 miles round trip. Great skating with smooth rolling terrain with some hills, watch traffic at street crossings.
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