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Fort Union Boulevard Trail

FreeAdventure
🕑 1-2 hours👶 Best for all ages. Toddlers enjoy riding in bike trailers or balance bikes on the smooth pavement, while older kids (6+) can build confidence riding independently on the protected pathway. It's also perfect for families with mixed ages since the flat terrain accommodates different skill levels.

About

The Fort Union Boulevard Trail offers families a safe, smooth paved pathway that's ideal for introducing young children to biking, teaching them to ride without training wheels, or enjoying leisurely family strolls. This well-maintained multi-use trail winds through Cottonwood Heights neighborhoods, providing a car-free environment where kids can safely practice their cycling skills while parents enjoy scenic mountain views.

Highlights

  • Smooth, flat paved surface perfect for beginner cyclists and balance bikes
  • Safe, car-free environment for kids to ride independently
  • Beautiful mountain views throughout the ride
  • Connects to neighborhood parks with playgrounds for combination activities
  • Wide pathway accommodates families riding side-by-side

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Access the trail from Fort Union Boulevard Park (7200 S Fort Union Blvd) which has parking, restrooms, and a playground for a play break mid-ride
  2. 2.Visit on weekday mornings for the quietest experience,weekends can get busy with cyclists and joggers
  3. 3.Bring sidewalk chalk for kids to decorate sections of the trail, and pack water since there are limited facilities along the route
  4. 4.The trail connects to other neighborhood paths, so bring a phone with GPS if you plan to explore beyond the main route
  5. 5.Rent bikes or grab helmets beforehand from local shops since there are no rentals directly at the trail

Best Time to Visit

Spring through fall on weekday mornings (8-10 AM) or early evenings (6-8 PM) offer the most comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer mornings are ideal before the afternoon heat sets in.

What to Know

The trail is completely free to use with multiple access points throughout Cottonwood Heights. Street parking is available at various neighborhoods along the route, with the best facilities at Fort Union Boulevard Park.

Seasonal Notes

Best enjoyed spring through fall (April-October). The trail is technically open year-round but can be icy in winter months. Fall offers stunning mountain foliage views. Summer mornings are ideal to beat the heat.

Nearby Eats

Stop at Chick-fil-A (6965 S Union Park Ave) just minutes from the trail for a quick kid-friendly meal, or grab pizza at Pieology (7050 S Union Park Center) where kids can customize their own personal pizzas.

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