Memory Grove Trail

Looking for a quick and easy trail for you and your dog that’s close to downtown and has shade and water access for those hot summer months? Memory Grove Park, next to the Utah State Capitol, might be just what you’re looking for. This 1.2-mile loop runs alongside City Creek and into the mouth of City Creek Canyon. Plus, it has one of the few trails (the Freedom Trail) in Salt Lake City that allows dogs to be off-leash.

To do this loop, head toward the pond’s east side. The route begins on a concrete path but then transitions to a dirt trail shortly after the pond. You can let your pup off-leash after reaching the dirt trail, but they must be on leash before you start the trail. After about 0.5 miles on the trail, take the bridge across City Creek and head south back to the trailhead, walking alongside the paved bicycle path. Your dog must be on a leash again after reaching the concrete path.

Memory Grove is also an area to pay your respects to America’s fallen military — as you walk this route you’ll see several war memorials constructed between 1924 and 1942.

Getting there

Memory Grove Park’s most popular parking area is the south entrance on North Canyon Road. There is free 2-hour parking alongside the road before you enter the park’s gates.

There’s also free parking on the east side of E Capitol Boulevard next to the Capitol. From here, you can walk down a series of steps to the park.