SLC Opens New Ramps to Make Jordan River Boating Easier
May 28, 2021, 4:34 PM | Updated: 9:23 pm
Salt Lake City, UTAH – Just in time for summer fun, Salt Lake City made it a lot easier to enjoy non-motorized boating on the Jordan River. The city opened three new boat ramps Friday where people can launch and take off for float trips.
“Getting into the river is going to be easier than ever: cement not mud. People can walk, kids can access it with their parents, hopefully safely wearing lifejackets going into the boats,” said Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall.
Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall speaks as the city opens three new boat ramps along the Jordan River. (KSL TV)
The mayor and some of her team launched their canoes and kayaks to celebrate the opening Friday morning. Many residents have been asking for more ramps and better boating access for years because it hasn’t been easy to get down to the river.
The ramps make the river more accessible to everyone and will help raise awareness for preservation, and help residents connect with nature.
City Council member James Rogers canoed the Jordan River 30 years ago for a Boy Scout merit badge, and said limited access made the river scary. This project opens up new exploration of nature in his district.
“I’m grateful for this great opportunity and money that is being funded to the west side. That needed to be done,” said Rogers. “I’m excited to get on the river.”
The three new ramps are located at:
- Fisher Mansion (1206 W 200 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84104)
- Gadsby Trailhead (1223 W North Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84116)
- Riverview Trailhead (1835 N Redwood Rd, Salt Lake City, UT 84116)
“This is a project the community has been asking for and I’m so glad this westside treasure will be more accessible to canoers, kayakers and other non-motorized watercrafts who can use these concrete structures to get in and out of the water more easily,” said Mendenhall. “As the population of the Salt Lake Valley continues to grow, it will be especially important for our city and our community to prioritize our parks, trails, and other natural resources.”
Funding for the project came through the Governor’s Office of Economic Development, Salt Lake County, Rocky Mountain Power and Salt Lake City taxpayers.
Salt Lake County also plans to add 12 ramps along the river. So, canoeing and kayaking can become even better options for outdoor activities this summer.
