City Creek Canyon is in downtown Salt Lake City near Memory Grove. The Freedom Trail, is a path that begins past Memory Grove through a woody area where dogs are allowed off-leash.
Memory Grove
Memory Grove’s main entrance is on Canyon Road, one block south of the Utah State Capitol Building. The City Creek Canyon area is a lower elevation, so come this way if you need it to be accessible. There is limited parking, so you may need to come from one of the alternate entrances. They have stairs to enter from the road across from the Utah State Capitol and from Bonneville Boulevard south of Memory Grove. Since I was there on a weekday afternoon, there was plenty of parking by the main Memory Grove entrance.
Follow the road or sidewalk back past the grass and monuments to the beginning of the wooded area.
Freedom Trail Off-Leash Area
Just past the bridge on the right side is the wooded area. Bikes aren’t allowed on this trail, but they are allowed on the road. Dogs are allowed off-leash here.
There are a few sets of stairs that head up to the right to the neighborhoods in the Avenues. If you want to stay on the main path, stay near the creek. Here are some photos of this beautiful natural area.
There is a section along the Freedom Trail with benches and quotes about freedom.
Memory Grove Wildlife
While I was walking I saw some black-capped chickadees and a few squirrels.
I don’t know if this tree was a casualty of the tornado, but it’s a really cool stump.
City Creek
There are multiple bridges to cross City Creek, so this trail is very adjustable in length.
Canyon Road
On the opposite side of City Creek is Canyon Road. This is a semi-private road, so traffic is minimal. There are still great views of City Creek.
City Creek Canyon is a beautiful natural area and Memory Grove is a beautiful park and set of memorials. It’s great for all ages and pets!
Stats: Distance – 0-2 miles
Approximate hiking time – 15-90 minutes
Elevation gain – 0-174 feet
Difficulty – Easy
Trail – paved and well maintained trail of dirt
Bathrooms – No
Seasons to hike – Year Round
Permits needed – None
Pets allowed – Yes
In winter click this post.
Other trails nearby are Ensign Peak, or the wheelchair-friendly Vista Mound, Living Room Lookout, Miller Park and Bonneville Glen Loop, Meridian Peak, Little Confluence Nature Trail, Thaynes Canyon / Desolation Loop, and Salt Lake Overlook in Millcreek Canyon.
