Bonneville Shoreline Trail, Dry Creek, and Bobsled Loop

The full loop, combining the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, Dry Creek, and Bobsled sections, generally takes around 4 hours and 20 minutes to complete for hikers. This can vary based on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.

While the overall physical rating is moderate, the loop includes sections that are quite challenging. The climb up Dry Creek is strenuous, and the Bobsled Trail is a steep, technical downhill section primarily designed for mountain bikers. Beginners might find the sustained climbs and the steep, winding descent of the Bobsled section difficult. It's best suited for hikers with some experience and good fitness.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll experience a steady, stiff climb on singletrack up Dry Creek, offering expansive views. The Bonneville Shoreline Trail sections feature a mix of singletrack and double-track with some steep ascents and descents. The Bobsled Trail is known for its very steep, washboard beginning, followed by fast, sharp, banked turns, and winding singletrack through a creekbed. Expect significant elevation changes throughout.

This loop offers spectacular views of Salt Lake City, especially from the Dry Creek climb and sections of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail. You'll also encounter unique features like the historic ancient shoreline of Lake Bonneville and the distinctive 'bobsled-style' turns of the Bobsled Trail. Don't miss the Sunset View Over Suburban Salt Lake City and the View of the Wasatch Mountains from Salt Lake City.

The trail is easily accessible from Salt Lake City. Specific parking information for the trailhead is not provided in the available data, but being located right in Salt Lake City, it's a popular spot for a quick outing. It's advisable to check local Salt Lake City trail resources for the most current parking options near the Dry Creek or Bonneville Shoreline Trail access points.

This trail is located within the Foothills Natural Area. Generally, trails within natural areas like this do not require specific permits for hiking, nor are there typically entrance fees. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Salt Lake City Parks and Recreation website for any updated regulations or fees related to the Foothills Natural Area before your visit.

Yes, trails in the Foothills Natural Area, including sections of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, are generally dog-friendly. However, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure the safety and enjoyment of all trail users. Please remember to pack out all pet waste.

Spring and fall are generally the best times to hike this loop, offering pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer can be very hot, especially on exposed sections, so an early morning start is recommended. Winter hiking is possible, but conditions can be icy or snowy, particularly on the steeper sections, making it more challenging and potentially hazardous.

Yes, this route incorporates several well-known paths. It includes significant sections of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, specifically the Bonneville Shoreline Trail - Twin Peaks Section, the Bonneville Shoreline Trail - Dry Creek Section, and the Bonneville Shoreline Trail - Valleyview Section. It also features a substantial portion of the Bobsled Trail and crosses parts of 19th Avenue (Upper).

The Bobsled Trail is famous for its thrilling downhill experience for mountain bikers, characterized by steep descents and sharp, banked turns. While hikers can descend it, be aware that it's considered a 'black diamond' trail for its technical features and steepness. Hiking uphill on the Bobsled Trail is generally not recommended due to its design for downhill flow and potential conflicts with fast-moving bikers. Exercise caution and yield to bikers, especially on blind turns.