sanjeevraman

Hi:

I'm a newbie on this forum, and in general to cycling. I live in Salt Lake City near Big Cottonwood Canyon, and work at the University of Utah. I hope to add cycling to my daily commute, at least on certain days of the week when I don't have to drive due to child drop-off/ pick ups etc. I wonder if anyone rides from near Big Cottonwood Canyon to the University of Utah Hospital, and their experiences about this ride. I looked it up on Google and MapQuest, and am able to find a route that follows Wasatch Blvd. onto Foothill, but am concerned about exposure to traffic. Any comments/ feedback are welcome.

Thanks for your comments in advance.

Cheers

Sanjeev

waldowales

I drive that area frequently, and I see a lot of cyclists. People know they are there, and watch for them. A lot safer than if you were the only one. There are literally thousands of bikes on campus every day. The motor cycle cops on Foothill do a pretty good job of keeping the motorists aware.

duvinclunk

^ Same. I don't live in that area but do see tons of cyclists running this route. Would be a great ride!

fumanju

I can help out here - I think you're going to love that ride. As mentioned by previous posters, this route is HEAVILY used by cyclists (as you'll see now that the weather is perking up) and therefore motorists are very aware of cyclists on the roads.

I've been on it at many different times of the day (6am or 8pm and anywhere in between). You'll be good - be smart and make sure you've got proper lighting/clothing if it's dark at any time you'll be on there and you'll be fine.

One of my favorite "quick" rides (I live just below Big Cottonwood and ride that path up to Hogle Zoo rather frequently).

Be Safe,

FuManJu

SteepPowder

I've ridden that route many times. Wasatch is very popular for bikes. When you get to Parleys, you'll take the path that will eventually dump you out onto Foothill. Ride the shoulder on Foothill a little ways until the first street, then turn right, then take your first left. That will put you back on Wasatch, which you can take all the way to the zoo. Good ride, tons of people ride it, and really no exposure except when you're on Foothill for a little bit. Even there, the shoulder is very wide and I think drivers generally expect bikes to be there. Welcome to riding in SLC--this is great place to ride!