Mountain eBike Tour

If you’re looking for a way to explore Salt Lake City’s outdoors that combines a bit of adventure with some fascinating history, the Mountain eBike Tour might catch your eye. This experience, offered by Salt Lake eBikes, promises a 2-hour ride on electric mountain bikes along a significant trail once traveled by Mormon pioneers in the mid-1800s. While we haven’t taken this tour ourselves, from what’s shared online, it seems like a solid option for those wanting to add some active sightseeing to their trip.

What immediately draws us to this tour are the scenic views and the fact that it offers both beginner and seasoned riders a chance to enjoy a trail that’s part of the historic Mormon Trail. The fact that it follows a section of the 1300-mile route that helped shape the American West is pretty compelling. Plus, the use of electric bikes means even those with moderate fitness levels can keep up and enjoy the ride without too much strain.

However, one thing to keep in mind is the guide’s gear provision — according to one review, helmets weren’t supplied, which could be a concern or a cue to bring your own safety gear. Also, since the tour requires a minimum of three riders to run, it’s worth planning ahead or checking availability in advance.

This tour suits travelers who love outdoor activities, enjoy learning a bit of local history, and want an accessible, fun way to see Salt Lake City’s surrounds. If that sounds like your kind of adventure, keep reading for a detailed breakdown of what you can expect.

Key Points

• Accessible adventure: Electric bikes make this ride suitable for a range of fitness levels.
• Historical route: Ride along a trail once traveled by Mormon pioneers in 1846-47.
• Scenic landscapes: Enjoy beautiful views on the banks of Little Dell Reservoir and beyond.
• Group size: Small groups (up to 8 travelers) help keep the experience personal.
• Weather-dependent: Good weather is essential, and cancellations due to poor conditions are common.
• Safety gear: Helmets are not provided, so bring your own if you prefer full protection.

What Is the Mountain eBike Tour All About?

This experience offers a roughly two-hour ride through some striking Utah scenery, starting at the tranquil Little Dell Reservoir. The highlight is riding along a stretch of the historic Mormon Trail, which is now part of the US National Trails System. This trail stretches from Illinois to Utah and played a critical role in westward expansion. For history buffs or those curious about pioneers, it’s a chance to connect with the past while enjoying the outdoors.

The tour is designed to be inclusive, with electric bikes letting you power through rocky, hilly terrain with ease. Whether you’re a seasoned mountain biker or a beginner eager for a new adventure, you’ll find this route manageable and rewarding.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Start at Little Dell Reservoir

You’ll kick things off on the shores of the reservoir, a peaceful spot with lovely views. This initial section sets a relaxed tone and allows you to get comfortable with your eBike before heading into more rugged terrain.

Riding the Mormon Trail Section

The main event is riding along a part of the trail once traveled by Mormon pioneers crossing the country in the 1840s. Today, this part of the route is preserved as a historic trail, offering a sense of connection to those early travelers. You’ll enjoy a scenic ride that combines history and nature, with the landscape providing a stunning backdrop to your journey.

End back at the Meeting Point

The tour concludes where it started, making logistics straightforward. You leave with memories of a unique outdoor experience and some new knowledge about local history.

What to Expect During the Ride

The terrain is rocky and features switchbacks, which can be challenging but manageable on an eBike. The assistance from the electric motor means you won’t have to worry about your fitness too much — but be prepared for some physical activity. Moderate physical fitness is recommended, but most riders should find it accessible.

The group size is small, with a maximum of 8 participants, giving the guide space to provide personalized attention. Expect a friendly atmosphere, especially if you’re traveling solo or in a small group.

The scenery is a major draw. The views of the reservoir and surrounding mountains tend to be quite beautiful, especially with good weather. The landscape’s ruggedness offers a sense of adventure, and many find riding along the historic trail gives the experience an added layer of significance.

The Guide and Equipment

According to a review, the guide’s knowledge was appreciated, though there was a hiccup regarding helmets — they weren’t supplied, which might surprise some. It’s wise to bring your own if you prefer full safety gear, or check with the company beforehand. With fewer than 8 travelers per group, the guide can keep things personal and adapt to the group’s pace and interests.

The bikes are electric mountain bikes, which means you get a little help on the tougher sections. This makes the experience accessible for those who might worry about their stamina but still want a fun, active outing.

Price and Value

At $145 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest activity in Salt Lake City, but it does include a good mix of outdoor adventure, history, and scenic views. Considering the small group size, guided experience, and the equipment involved, many would see it as a fair price. Plus, it’s worth noting that the tour is booked an average of 6 days in advance, so planning ahead is essential.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurers who enjoy active outdoor pursuits and have an interest in local history. It’s suitable for a wide range of skill levels thanks to the eBike assistance, but you should have moderate physical fitness. If you’re traveling with a group of friends or a partner who appreciates scenic rides and storytelling, this could be a memorable outing.

Also, if you’re someone who appreciates small groups and personalized attention, you’ll find the limited group size appealing. It’s not ideal if you’re looking for a high-adrenaline MTB experience or if you prefer guided tours with helmets provided — but for a relaxed, scenic ride with a touch of history, it hits the mark.

The Sum Up

The Mountain eBike Tour offers a charming way to combine outdoor activity with a dash of Utah’s pioneering past. The scenic backdrop of Little Dell Reservoir and the historic Mormon Trail make for an engaging ride that’s accessible to many, thanks to the electric bikes. The experienced guides add value with their local knowledge, making it a worthwhile experience for those curious about the area or simply looking for a fun outdoor excursion.

While it’s not a hardcore mountain biking adventure, it’s ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic ride that doesn’t demand top physical condition. The small group size ensures a more personal touch, and the ease of riding makes it appealing even for beginners.

If you’re in Salt Lake City and want to get out into nature while learning a bit about local history, this tour could be a great choice. Just remember to bring your own helmet if safety is a priority, and plan well in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the use of electric mountain bikes makes it manageable for riders of all levels. Moderate physical fitness is recommended but not required.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 2 hours long, including riding time and stops.

Do I need my own safety gear?
Helmets are not provided by the guide, so it’s a good idea to bring your own if you prefer to wear one.

What is the starting point?
The tour begins at Little Dell Reservoir in Utah.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people can join?
Up to 8 travelers can participate, making for a small-group experience.

What is the price?
The tour costs $145 per person, which covers bike use, guide services, and scenic riding.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience to get a full refund.

Will I see interesting scenery?
Absolutely. Expect beautiful views of the reservoir and the surrounding landscape, along with a historic trail route.

Hopefully this gives you a clear picture of what you can expect from the Mountain eBike Tour. It’s a laid-back, scenic experience that balances outdoor fun with some fascinating history — perfect if you’re after a relaxed adventure in Salt Lake City.