Matheson Nature Preserve

1 mi RT
easy
spring, summer, fall

The Scott M. Matheson Nature Preserve and Governor’s Grove offers a scenic one-mile walk through a natural sage grassland, high on the east bench of Salt Lake City. At the center of the preserve, Governor’s Grove honors all of the governors in Utah’s history including Scott M. Matheson, for whom the preserve is named. The pathway through the preserve offers multiple loop options so you can choose how far you’d like to walk. The trail surface is loose gravel with a modest overall elevation gain of approximately fifty feet. This hike is suitable for children and adults of all skill and fitness levels.

The Trailhead

The Matheson Nature Preserve is located on the east bench of Salt Lake City near This Is The Place Heritage Park. To reach trailhead from the junction of I-15 and I-80 in Salt Lake City:

Drive east on I-80 toward Cheyenne for 5.3 miles.
Take Exit 129 for Foothill Drive/Parley’s Way.
Drive north on Foothill Drive for 2.9 miles.
Turn right onto Sunnyside Ave.
Drive east on Sunnyside Ave for 0.4 miles to the signed junction for This Is The Place Heritage Park on the left.
Turn left into This Is The Place Heritage Park.
Drive 0.2 miles to the parking area on the left.
The entrance to Matheson Preserve is located on the west side near the center of the large parking area. If you live in the area, you can also access the preserve directly from Sunnyside Avenue, however no parking is available there.

The Hike

From the parking area, enter the preserve through the gated east entrance. You may choose to begin by walking the outer loop in either direction, or walk straight ahead to visit Governor’s Grove. The grove is a loop near the center of the preserve that honors the governors who have served the State of Utah throughout its history. Each governor’s name is engraved into a large granite boulder along the circle.

Following the circle brings you back to the starting point near the entrance gate. Continue walking on the outer loop in either direction. The path traverses the outer edge of the preserve, offering excellent views of the nearby foothills. Continue around the outer loop back to where you started, or take one of a handful of small connector trails to shorten the loop to fit your time or energy level.

Rules and Regulations

Clean up after pets.
Dogs must be on leash at all times.
Pack out all trash.
No smoking.