As an experienced cyclist and avid photographer, I have had the pleasure of exploring the stunning landscapes of northern Utah on two wheels. From rugged mountains to serene lakes, this region offers endless opportunities for capturing breathtaking photos while biking. In this article, I will share my top picks for the best places to take photos while cycling in northern Utah.
The Bonneville Shoreline Trail
The Bonneville Shoreline Trail is a must-visit for any cyclist or photographer in northern Utah. This 280-mile trail follows the ancient shoreline of Lake Bonneville, offering stunning views of the Wasatch Mountains and the Great Salt Lake.The trail is mostly flat and well-maintained, making it suitable for all skill levels. One of my favorite spots along this trail is the section that runs through Mueller Park in Bountiful. This stretch offers panoramic views of the valley below and is especially beautiful during sunrise or sunset. The trail also passes through several parks and nature reserves, providing plenty of opportunities to capture wildlife and wildflowers in their natural habitat.
Antelope Island State Park
Located in the Great Salt Lake, Antelope Island State Park is a cyclist's paradise. The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, pronghorn antelope, and bighorn sheep.As you bike along the island's scenic roads, you'll have plenty of chances to capture these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. One of the best spots for photos on Antelope Island is Buffalo Point. This overlook offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, making it an ideal spot for landscape photography. I also recommend taking a detour to White Rock Bay, where you can capture the iconic image of a lone tree standing in the middle of the lake.
Logan Canyon
For more experienced cyclists, Logan Canyon is a must-visit destination in northern Utah. This 44-mile stretch of road winds through the beautiful Cache National Forest, offering breathtaking views of the Bear River Mountains and the Logan River.The canyon is also home to several waterfalls, including the popular Bridal Veil Falls. One of my favorite spots in Logan Canyon is Tony Grove Lake. This picturesque alpine lake is surrounded by towering peaks and is a popular spot for camping and fishing. The road leading up to the lake is also a great spot for photos, with plenty of pullouts and scenic overlooks along the way.
Bear Lake
Located on the border of Utah and Idaho, Bear Lake is often referred to as the "Caribbean of the Rockies" due to its stunning turquoise waters. The 20-mile loop around the lake is a popular route for cyclists, offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. One of my favorite spots for photos on Bear Lake is Rendezvous Beach State Park.This beach offers panoramic views of the lake and is a great spot for capturing sunset photos. I also recommend taking a detour to Garden City, where you can capture photos of the iconic raspberry shakes that this area is known for.
The Alpine Loop Scenic Byway
The Alpine Loop Scenic Byway is a 20-mile stretch of road that winds through the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. This route offers stunning views of Mount Timpanogos and other peaks in the Wasatch Range. The road is narrow and winding, making it more suitable for experienced cyclists. One of the best spots for photos on the Alpine Loop is Cascade Springs.This natural spring is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a peaceful setting for capturing photos of the cascading water. The road leading up to Cascade Springs is also a great spot for photos, with several pullouts and scenic overlooks along the way.
