This loop offers incredible contrast, transitioning from urban canyons to isolated high-altitude wilderness. The ride begins with the steady climb up Big Cottonwood Canyon, where steep stone walls give way to the forests and high summits of the Wasatch. Enjoy the sweeping, winding turns as you pass Solitude Mountain Resort and approach the sharp left turnoff for Guardsman Pass.
As you reach the crest, take in the breathtaking panorama of mountain ranges unfolding in every direction. The descent on the eastern side offers equally stunning views. Take the right fork in the road to head towards the quirky town of Midway. With Swiss influences around every corner, there are plenty of fun restaurants in town for a short break.
The loop continues with a scenic climb out of Park City, past the Montage Deer Valley Resort, and back over the mountains for the return ride into Salt Lake.
Sights
Stop at Heber Valley Artisan Cheese's big red barn for a taste of locally sourced cheese & dairy products, as well as seasonal events.
Make a reservation for a soak in the Midway Crater, a natural geothermal spring hidden within a 55-foot limestone dome.
Take a stroll through historic Park City, where you'll find a mix of a variety of restaurants and bars, as well as high-end fashion and modern art studios. Paid parking is available throughout town.
Tips
Guardsman Pass is a seasonal road that typically opens in late May or June and closes with the first major snowfall in late- autumn. The weather at the summit will be noticeably cooler than the valley but rarely cold. This is a great autumn foliage ride!
There is an abundance of local police presence on west side of the mountain pass, so we advise that you keep your speeds reasonable.
This is an extremely popular route in the summer. We suggest avoiding it on weekends and holidays as traffic will slow down to <25 mph for the entire mountain pass.
110
Miles Roundtrip
3 hours
Duration
Paved
Primary Road Surface
If you can't see a map here, it is due to seasonal roadway closures breaking our route maps. It will be repaired in the spring.
Notes
No route fees.
Header image courtesy of Steve Greenwood/Utah Office of Tourism
All other images: Original photography by Utah Touring