Mueller Park Trail

Dogs Unknown

Features Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Because of the heavy use by mountain bikes, the trail is relatively smooth and easy, though many rocks and roots still present tripping hazards.

From the parking lot and trailhead, the trail crosses a sturdy footbridge and then ascends via multiple switchbacks through mature forests and ferns. The first couple of miles will often be crowded with families completing the Elephant Rock Out and Back.

Further up the trail, the crowds thin and the occasional mountain biker or runner will cross your path. Roughly 3.5 miles up the trail, a beautiful view of the valley is possible from the top of Elephant Rock.

Those continuing on past Elephant Rock will enjoy dense evergreen forests with gentle ascents on the way to Rudy's Flat. This portion of the trail is far more lonely as few who are on foot travel this far. At Rudy's Flat, a beautiful alpine meadow with wildflowers can be enjoyed where you can continue a little ways to the south to see views of Salt Lake City or a little ways to the northwest and see expansive views of Bountiful and the Great Salt Lake.

Rudy's Flat is sometimes inhabited by Boy Scouts camping. The trail continues by connecting to North Canyon Trail, or runners can return the way that they came.

Deer, elk, and moose are not uncommon sights. Squirrels, chipmunks, and other small animals are common. Lodgepole pines, Colorado spruce, quaking aspen, ferns, maples, and scrub oak cover the hillsides and are usually grouped by topography and sun exposure.