The Bear Canyon Suspension Bridge (aka Draper Suspension Bridge, as the locals call it) is located in Draper, UT and is an easy 2 mile RT hike for the whole family – dogs included! While this is an ON leash trail, don’t let that deter you from walking across this 185 ft long bridge as you take in the views of both the city and Wasatch Mountains. The trail itself is very well signed, and very popular especially on weekends.
Directions
In SLC, head south on I-15 and take exit 291 for 123rd South, and turn left (East). Turn right on 900 East, then left on Pioneer Road. Follow this for 1.7 miles, staying straight around the round-a-bout. Turn right on 2000 E at the stop sign. Drive 0.2 miles, and turn left into the signed Orson Smith Park area. The trail begins by the restrooms and stairs. Here is a driving map.
Trail Info
Distance: 2 miles RT
Elevation gain: 400 ft
Time: 1 hour
Dog friendly? Yes, ON leash
Kid friendly? Yes, all ages
Fees/Permits? None
Start by parking in the main lot, then head East by the restrooms and up the stairs.
You will hike up several short, easy switchbacks.
When you reach the wider trail, you will now have an option to complete this as a loop hike. Whether you go clockwise or counter clockwise, it’s about the same elevation gain either way. If you want to knock out more switchbacks right away, then hike this counter clockwise. If you need more time to warm up, then go clockwise. I went counter clockwise.
You should now hike up several more switchbacks, this time more steep. Lots of signs everywhere to keep dogs on-leash. Sad Charlie!
Eventually the trail turns north and you have a very nice view along the Wasatch Front.
Again, this trail is very well signed. Stay straight.
As you turn a corner, you will now have your first view of the Bear Canyon Suspension Bridge. I started hiking around 11am, and the bridge was still in the shade at 11:30am. I imagine in summer this trail would be very hot and you would want to start early.
Getting Charlie’s obligatory “dog on bridge” photo! He wasn’t thrilled about being on leash, even though we did a 2 mile off leash hike prior to this to get his energy out!
Time to hike across the bridge.
It was icy so we walked slowly. I love my Duluth Trading long down vest! So warm and cozy.
After walking across the bridge, to complete the loop immediately turn left. You hike down a few steep switchbacks. If you did the hike clockwise, you will hike UP these.
One last look at the bridge from below!
Trail Map
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