Shane's Favorite Running Routes - Bridger Look Off (loop) (Switchbacks and beyond)

Bridger Loop - Logan Canyon, Utah

A lot of folks ask what and where I run. To this end, I thought this would be a great way to demonstrate some of that information. I will use Strava as a way to demonstrate the route and I will walk through the distance and route a little bit.

Links to Strava:

Bridger lookoff

Bridger Look off with more vert

2nd Dam including Bridger loop

So the route details:

The route itself can start at a few points which include but aren't limited to:

1st Dam - See map below
Stokes parking areas (lower and upper)
2nd Dam
A few campgrounds
There is also a way to do it from Spring Hollow - I haven't done this yet

That being said - depending on the section you select it will determine distance, effort and many of the features I will describe from 1st Dam Parking lot.

From First Dam, you can select to park on the pond/lakeside and access the first part of the run by the tunnel, then making the decision to include the BST switchbacks to High Line Trail. OR, you can stay low and just head up Logan River Trail. Either option will determine effort, elevation and pacing. I run primarily for time and focus on Real Perceived Effort (RPE) so it's different for all.

So after securing your car and meeting up with folks or not, head through the tunnel and make your choice. I will follow the Logan River Trail option. As you stay to the right ignoring the switchbacks up to BST and High Line, then start making your way and head a bit left up to the water treatment plant.

You will follow that road up to your first incline and then be promptly rewarded with a descent that is quick or casual. You will head to the right and under the bridge that will take you over a walking/running bridge and you will turn left.

The next two miles are a gentle incline passing Stokes Nature Center, the water testing site, and ultimately beyond Second Dam. For most around second dam, is a gentle incline that will alert you to how close you are getting to the switchbacks.

The first time I encountered the switchbacks was on a new years eve, This has become a fun tradition to run out the old year with a group of foolishly inclined runners brave enough to do this run in 0 to -20 degree weather. The switchbacks caught me off guard and really taught me a lesson in knowing your terrain. The switchbacks outside of icy conditions are often pleasant. From typical dry conditions to mist or packed snow, the switchbacks both up and down are generally safe and fun. be aware that microspikes or a solid lugged tread is recommended for icy and slippery conditions. I've made it up in horrible conditions and down too, but depends on how much effort and stress you want to exert in your efforts here.

Once you have triumphed past the switchbacks, you cruise on up to the bluff where the look off is and you are typically welcomed by a clear single track. Often you will find other runners and cyclists on the trail, so be aware. Every once in an awhile an off leashed partner with its running or wandering human is close enough to make any anxious person around animals typically feel safe. The small issue on this route is knowing your surroundings. Although I have not had an animal encounter, snakes, mountain lions, deer, elk, moose and other varmints are in the area and it is an active wildlife area. Be mindful and aware and protect and educate yourself accordingly.

The trail leads to a light fork in the road that is marked by a sign:

Follow this incline up the rest of the way. This is where the trail can get a little sketchy for some as you come up to what is the apex of a bluff, there are a few old light poles and the remnant of an old sign marking the loop. Once you identify the loop, the rest of the trail is working its way gently back and through shared road with a very active campground area. Again be mindful of your surroundings, I have never had issues and always been greeted by many friendly exchanges, but just be aware.

This run is about 8-10 miles round trip depending on where you start and if you include more vert. Along the way, you will notice a dozen or so junctions to deer trails and other well-marked trails. I haven't ventured on many but there are quite a few options. One of the options takes you up toward syncline in a hurry and you don't have to go over to the upper spring hollow route. I have heard folks doing this, but be prepared if you try that, it is not for the faint of heart.

Anyway, this is a mellow trail run, well used and offers a quick getaway and awesome views from the look off. It's the entryway into the canyon and gives the adventurer an opportunity to glimpse the many welcoming trails that are to discover int he Logan Canyon. Be prepared for the time of year and it will be a great trail with many opportunities.

Cheers!