Utah Trails Network set to link communities, parks, and colleges across Utah

Bike path bridge underpass on the trail that runs along SR-224 Photo: TownLift

Utah — A new statewide trail system is set to link more than 200 towns, 33 colleges, and dozens of transit stations, Governor Spencer Cox announced at the Utah Transportation Conference.

The Utah Trail Network will utilize 500 miles of existing trails while designating 2,600 miles of new paved trails. Along with connecting communities, the network will link six national parks and 25 state parks.

Once complete, 95% of all Utahns will live within one mile of the Utah Trail Network, according to the Utah Department of Transportation.

“We need to spend more time outside, more time connecting with people and more time exercising, and the way we do that is through our trail system,” Cox said during his announcement. “The Utah Trail Network helps every Utahn commute, recreate and enjoy Utah. It’s a great way to build for future generations.”

Cox has championed the idea of the Utah Trails Network since 2022, and in 2023 the state legislature created the Active Transportation Investment Fund to begin turning the idea into reality.

Earlier this year, the Utah Transportation Commission approved nearly $95 million in funding to build and plan 19 new paved trails or complete existing trail gaps across the state. This includes a potential 6.75-mile paved path between the Wasatch Mountain State Park and Deer Creek Dam trailheads. For residents of Park City and nearby towns, the new network will provide easier connections for commuting, recreation, and weekend adventures.

Several projects are slated to begin next spring, subject to contractor availability, supplies, and weather.

The newly completed master plan is a result of UDOT working closely with communities and planning partners across the state to select and plan paved trails for the map.

For maps, updates, and more information about the Utah Trail Network, visit utahtrailnetwork.udot.utah.gov.