Fort Union Boulevard Trail
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.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.Visit on weekday mornings for the quietest experience,weekends can get busy with cyclists and joggers
- 3.Bring sidewalk chalk for kids to decorate sections of the trail, and pack water since there are limited facilities along the route
- 4.The trail connects to other neighborhood paths, so bring a phone with GPS if you plan to explore beyond the main route
- 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.
More Activities Near Cottonwood Heights
Bengal Boulevard
Bengal Boulevard offers families a beautiful paved trail system perfect for biking, scootering, and stroller walks through Cottonwood Heights. With gentle terrain that's ideal for beginners and stunning mountain views, it's an excellent spot for families looking to enjoy Utah's outdoor beauty without tackling difficult trails.
Little Dell Recreation Area
Little Dell Recreation Area offers an ideal introduction to mountain trails for families with young adventurers. This accessible spot features gentle paths around a picturesque reservoir where kids can spot wildlife, skip stones, and explore nature without the challenge of steep climbs. The easy-access trailhead means less time coaxing tired toddlers and more time enjoying the stunning Wasatch Mountain scenery.
Butler Elementary School
Butler Elementary School features a community park that's a hidden gem for local families in Cottonwood Heights. The park offers well-maintained playground equipment, open grassy areas perfect for picnics and free play, and sports facilities that make it ideal for active kids looking to burn energy after school or on weekends.
Cottonwood Country Club
Cottonwood Country Club offers families an accessible gateway to Utah's stunning foothills with easy trails perfect for little legs and open green spaces for picnics and play. The combination of maintained paths and natural mountain terrain makes it an ideal spot for introducing kids to hiking while keeping the adventure manageable and close to home.