Ask nearly any local about the Jordan River, and you're probably not going to summon a lot of love…read more But every time I visit, I wonder why in the world that is. We have a really incredible resource running right down the center of the Salt Lake Valley, and serious time and effort has been put into making it accessible and fun for everyone.
I'll save the rest of the love I have for the review of the whole parkway, which is found elsewhere on Yelp. What you should know, at the very least, is that it's continuous (mostly) trail that runs from Utah Lake to more or less the Great Salt Lake (via the Legacy Parkway Trail and the Denver & Rio Grande Western Rail Trail). All told, that system of trails is 76 miles long and is only a few patches shy of being completely paved (meh) but offering loads of recreation and open space.
So, let's talk about this trailhead in Midvale. It's the one I've used most, and I really like the openness of it. The more popular area here is on the south side of 7800 South, just to the east of the river. The parking lot is only accessible from the eastbound lane, as the westbound median blocks would-be left hand turners. Once you arrive in the parking area, you've got an oddly shaped L lot, with several parking spaces including wheelchair accessible reserved spots.
Technically, the Parkway proper doesn't connect to this parking lot, but rather the small section of trail from the parking lot to the large bridge is a "spur trail" and the trail proper follows the west bank of the river. Things get a little confusing, so have a map handy if you're out for a long hike. If you're heading south, go to that first bridge, and then continue on the east side of the river. Further south there's another bridge crossing and you'll take that to the right (west) if you want to stay on the official trail. Instead of crossing, however, you can continue on the east side of the river, follow the big bend, and eventually you'll pop out on 700 West in a semi-industrial area. This is always a nice out-and-back option that I often take. The river has some interesting pools and fishable sections down here, as well as lots of ducks.
If you're parking here and headed north, you'll have to first go south to that first bridge, cross, and then head back north. You'll see the underpass, pass through, and you're off and running to the north, now on the western shore of the river.
Back near the parking area, there are picnic tables aplenty. It would make a fine spot to eat a meal. There is also a Trailhead in Midvale at 7200 S, and lots more dining options there, but I prefer this trailhead, so you could drive down 700 W with your food, park, and enjoy food with a view.
I used to come here in the wee hours of the morning for dog walks and didn't see too many people, especially in winter. As it's paved, it makes for a good run. On warmer nights it's full of people, families mostly, and is hugely popular with the bicycle crowd.
One word of caution: I don't love the security situation here. It's a dark trail, but in the middle of the city. The parking lot is full of piles of broken glass that makes me think it's a popular place for smash n' grab punks. I've never personally had a problem, but I would not leave any valuables in my car here, and I would look for a walking partner in those early morning/evening hours. In the name of caution.
The Jordan River has its problems, but we live so close to a really wonderful little piece of nature, and this access point has a lot to like.