Ridge Trail 157, frequently referred to as the Ridgeline Trail, connects the Summit Trail Head in American Fork Canyon to many other trails. It is popular for mountain biking and hiking and gives amazing views of the canyon around. The Summit Trailhead is surrounded by Aspens, so the first part of the trail is nice and shady.

Be sure to be polite and share the path if there are other bikers or hikers. This can be a challenging path on a mountain bike, but is moderate/easy on foot. After about 10 minutes there is a little path that veers off to the right for about 15 feet to see the view. It’s worth the tiny detour.

Return to the path and continue for a few more minutes. The view will then open up to the left. It is spectacular!

We were hiking as the sun was setting so the views kept changing, even though we hadn’t moved that far along the trail.

We are right as the seasons are beginning to change, so we saw a few wildflowers and a few colored leaves.

This trail is actually really long. The most popular part is between the Summit and Mill Canyon 40, but you can connect and go even farther. Here is a list of connecting trails: Ridge Connector #216, Pine Hollow #047, Mud Springs #173, Tibble Fork #041, South Fork of Little Deer Creek #252, Mill Canyon #040, other trails include:  #038, #039, #181, #171, #031, #032

Other hikes from the Summit Trailhead are Lame Horse Trail and Horse Flat Trail, both can go to the beautiful Primrose Overlook.

Stats: Distance – 15.7 miles there and back (can turn around sooner or connect to other trails)
Approximate hiking time – 1-4 hours
Elevation gain – up to 3979 feet
Difficulty – Moderate
Trail – well maintained trail of dirt and rocks,
Bathrooms – At Trailhead
Seasons to hike – June-October
Permits needed – $6 for a 3-day pass or a National Park Pass
Pets allowed – Yes

Ridge Trail at Summit Trailhead