Parleys Historic Nature Park is dog heaven

Outdoor people are dog people. At least that seems to be a general fact when one simply looks around in mountain towns and cities. Another general fact, is that outdoor people like to take their dogs along on outside adventures, as there is nothing better than sharing a hike with your best friend. But it can often be a challenge to find areas where you can allow your dog to run free, off leash. This is especially true in Salt Lake City.

If you’re short on time but ole’ Scruffy is itching to get out and run, Parley’s Historic Nature Park is a dog-friendly place in the city that is much more than a simple dog park. Located at the mouth of Parley’s Canyon at 2700 East and 2700 South along I-80, the 88 acres of land that make up the park is quite possibly dog heaven. There are multiple trails that weave through cottonwood groves that grow alongside Parley’s Creek that canines can explore. There are also several swimming holes that dogs love to jump into.

Callista and I take our dog, Lucy, to the park on a weekly basis, and she just goes nuts whenever we pull into the parking lot. Once she is let off her leash at the bottom of the access hill, she takes off with wild abandon, chasing other dogs, flinging herself into the creek and bounding through the trees. It’s even a great place to go in the middle of winter as dogs love to play in the snow.

Of course, the park is also a place for people too. It’s an oasis in the middle of the city and a perfect spot to walk, relax, and get away from the urban noise. There are several historic markers along the trail, including pioneer home sites and an old aqueduct.

The location, size, and environment of the park make it a good spot to go if there isn’t enough time to go for a full day-hike in the mountains. You can wander, exercise your dog and enjoy nature right in the middle of Salt Lake City. If you haven’t already, check it out.

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Tags: dog friendly, Hiking