Mueller Park is one of the most popular trails in Davis County, but did you know that there is another trail close by that runs nearly parallel to Mueller Park? North Canyon Trail leads to Rudy’s Flat and is a lesser-known trail in the area but is an awesome trip with beautiful meadows, wildflowers, and views of the valley. This is also a great trail for mountain biking or trail running.

North Canyon Trail is a moderate level out and back trail that is approximately 7.5 miles roundtrip with 1,600 feet in elevation gain. While this is a moderate level hike, it is doable for beginners as long as you are prepared to be hiking for approximately 3 hours or more. The last few miles of this trail will offer some open exposure, make sure to wear sunscreen!

There is no dedicated trailhead for this hike, but this is where you will want to start. The first mile of this hike is on a dirt road that can be driven on if you have a 4WD vehicle. If your vehicle does not handle rough terrain very well, it is recommended that you park at the end of the pavement and walk for one mile along the dirt road. This dirt road is a little steep and not very scenic, but don’t let that deter you from continuing on this hike. If you decide to drive on this portion of the hike, there will be a small lot for you to park at.

This trail offers variety and is a gorgeous hike year-round. After the dirt road, you’ll start off in a beautiful meadow, cross over a few creek beds, then you’ll be led through a series of switchbacks. Most of this trail is shaded by large pine trees but you’ll also enjoy the sunshine at certain trail points.

North Canyon Trail will lead you to Rudy’s Flat, a beautiful meadow with an elevation of 7,150 feet. Rudy’s Flat serves as a junction for three popular trails: Mueller Park, North Fork out of City Creek Canyon, and this North Canyon Trail. Rudy’s Flat has amazing views of Davis County, Salt Lake County, and Antelope Island State Park. You can make an entire day out of hiking more trails than just North Canyon via the trail junction of Rudy’s Flat, or you can plan on a half day of hiking! There is no wrong way to enjoy this trail.

After reaching Rudy’s Flat you can actually merge with the Mueller Park trail and head back down the mountain on this trail. It will make your hiking trip 13.5 miles and creates nearly a full loop.

This trail is great for hiking, trail running, and mountain biking. With this in mind, know that there are lots of other people using this trail on the weekends. Please be mindful of others and aware of your surroundings!

For a detailed trail map and reviews on North Canyon Trail, visit All Trails.

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While visiting this trail, remember to practice #ResponsibleRecreation. Maintain social distancing, stay home if you are sick, keep dogs on a leash and pickup after them, and “pack it in- pack out”.