Five Ogden running trails for fall foliage
1. Green Pond Trail
In late September and early October, this 2.9-mile loop is cast in glorious golden groves of Quaking Aspen. The trailhead is located 1.3 miles west of Snowbasin Road from Trappers Loop Highway (State Rd 167). For the average runner, it takes 30-45 minutes to complete. The trail switchbacks up 380 feet, with little bridges and boardwalks along the way across a small stream. Green pound banks are intermixed with evergreens and the bright orange and red leaves of Gambel oaks. Take a minute to look at the bright colors of Mount Ogden behind you and the colorful hills of Ogden Valley below.
2. Wheeler Creek Canyon Loop
This trail can be a 4.7-mile loop (through Art Nord Trail to Icebox Canyon) or 2.5 miles out and back (to the top of Icebox and back), depending on the route you choose. Because of the canyon walls, this trail is brightest in the late morning or afternoon. Enjoy the gorgeous reds and oranges of the scrub oaks and tall canyon maples as you run next to the ripples of Wheeler Creek. Be sure to look for the “log living room” spot next to the creek in Icebox Canyon.
3. North Fork Park Trail
A short drive north of Eden, this 1.4-mile out-and-back trail is considered moderate. It winds through yellow aspens, orange maples, and scrub oak to a small waterfall. Runners could extend their run at the base by winding through the trails next to the campgrounds of North Park. No matter the route choice here, it is a perfect place to run on an autumn day.
4. Bird Song Trail
This gem is a 2.4-mile loop located in the foothills of Ogden. The trailhead is on the south of the Rainbow Gardens parking lot (1851 Valley Dr). It takes approximately 30-45 minutes to complete for the average runner. It winds through bright orange and red leaves of scrub oaks with several groves of tall bright-yellow cottonwood trees along the way. There is a pleasant section near the creek with a bench to sit on if you need a rest. Make sure you look for the 1950s vehicle hidden in the trees on the east side. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash, as part of the trail winds through a neighborhood.
5. Weber River to Fort Buenaventura
Start at the Parker Drive Trailhead and run north 1.4 miles along the Weber River Trail to Fort Buenaventura. Step back in time as you take in the gorgeous yellows of the cottonwood trees glistening above the Miles Goodyear camp with its sod hut and tipi. Make a loop around the pond and cross the river back to the trail. Dogs can use the trail but must be on a leash or you will be fined.