It’s a bright, sunny Saturday morning in Salt Lake City and temperatures are already in the low 90’s. As you wipe the perspiration off your brow, you notice the family dog pacing by the front door as your children run back and forth in the living room. A slight panic sets in as you realize you need to come up with something — anything — to entertain your rambunctious brood and redirect their manic energy.
Relax and take a deep breath, for there is nothing to fear! Would you believe that only a short 30 miles away, an exciting, free, and accessible adventure awaits your whole family?
Just off of I-80 and the Kimball Junction Exit, directly below the Utah Olympic Park (UOP), sits a sprawling 44 acre wonderland aptly named Run-A-Muk Dog Park and Trail.
Within its fenced-in, no-leash, open-access boundaries, your four-legged companion is free to “run-a-muk” across the fields and sagebrush. If you have young children, they will enjoy the gentle, flat terrain, while you take in the fresh mountain air that is a full 10 degrees colder than in the valley.
“This is such a nice, cool area with gorgeous scenery,” Said Natalia Sigal of Salt Lake City. “The area is big so it feels like a real hike, and yet it’s fenced-in and safe. We have been coming here since we rescued our dog, Bella, and now we have a second dog, Scout, who loves to play here too. We head up the canyon, get out of the heat, and spend the morning together. ”
Open Space
Since its opening in 2014, the area has offered visitors various trail options, which makes it perfect for leisurely strolls, brisk walks, or challenging hikes. The park is accessible from either the Millenium Trail, south of Whole Foods and just north of Bear Cub Drive, or at the well-marked parking lot off of Olympic Parkway.
Owned jointly by Summit County and Basin Recreation, the Run-A-Muck Trail area has been designated Open Space and is preserved and protected by the latter organization.
“Because Basin Recreation manages nearly 2,000 acres of open space, it is well equipped to maintain and improve the dog park and trail,” said Phares Gines, trails and open space manager. “For example we are currently adding a new trail loop and parking lot to the area. This will provide even greater access and trail options to our visitors.”
According to Gines, the dog park and trail is beloved amongst Summit County locals. ”It is by far our most popular trail in the basin district.”
Great for Dogs
For Parkite Laura Kent, the appeal of the area is obvious. “My dogs love Run-A-Muck and so do I. It’s convenient, with well maintained trails, and it’s contained while being super spacious. It’s like a social hour for my dogs. They can run around and play with each other and other dogs, happy as can be. And when they stick with me and the kids, we just hike the trails together until we all decide its treat time.”
Run-a-Muk is also known for its amazing views of the ski jumps at the UOP and the surrounding preserves and hills. According to one local, Adam Ghitelman, “It’s the perfect place where I can do my walking meditation. I have been coming here for five years, since my dog Bode was a puppy. We get a chance to be outside and get some exercise and it’s nice to have an off-leash area that is so expansive.”
Furthermore, the dog park is famous for its amiable environment and neighborly attitude — so be prepared to make new friends, human and canine. As Ghitelman explained, “The people are always kind and the dogs are so sweet.”
When visiting Run-A-Muk, it’s advised that you bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen, as well as plenty of water. Additionally, there is a stream in the upper part of the open space, so if you have a water-loving dog, you may want to pack some towels and a brush.
As at all dog parks, make sure your pup stays within your sight and under your control. And be prepared to pick-up any doggie debris. Run-A-Muk Dog Park and Trail makes this super easy and convenient by providing clean-up bags and waste receptacles throughout the park.
However, the most important thing to remember while visiting the park is to enjoy yourself and have a good time. As Ghitelman wisely said, “For Bode and I, Run-A-Muk is the best part of our day. We rejoice in every moment of the experience.” Stay up-to-date with the the trail or post your own photos and comments at the Run-A-Muk Facebook page.
Feature Image: On the trail at Run-A-Muk. All photos by Brandi Christoffersen.
