Trail Review: Jardine Juniper

Distance:  10.0 Miles
Vertical climb/descent:  ~ 2050 feet
Difficulty:  Moderate

The 1500 year-old Jardine Juniper

This trail is one of my all-time favorites, and it is named for the 1500 year-old juniper tree at its termination, which is thought to be one of the oldest trees in Utah.  The trailhead begins near the Woodcamp campground, about 20 minutes drive from Logan up Logan Canyon.  After turning off the highway, it is about 100 yards up a dirt road to the parking area.  Bathrooms of the pit variety are provided at the trailhead.  The sign says that the Jardine Juniper is a 5.2 mile hike (or run, in my case) away, and is accurate.  The trail is a steady climb pretty much the entire way out.  Not steep, but enough to let you know that you are gaining elevation at a good clip.  There is one stream crossing in the early part of the summer, so be prepared to balance across a couple of fence posts.  The scenery is spectacular.  Once you ascend out of the meadowed valley where the trail begins, you climb the first ridge which gives you some great views of the valley below and the surrounding mountains.  You cross several small rivulets that sprout from springs right in the mountainside.  Once you reach the top of the first ridge, the trail takes you through another high meadow, at the head of which  the Cottonwood Canyon trail splits off.  I am not exactly sure where that goes...it will warrant further exploration.  Continuing around the meadow, you begin to ascend the second ridge.  Near the top, you come to a split in the trail.  Either route will take you to the tree, but I prefer the right hand side (dubbed "Scenic Route") going out.  Here you will see some spectacular views of Logan Canyon, Logan Peak, Right-hand Fork, and Temple Fork areas.  When you come to the point of the ridge, you are at the highest point of the trail.  After a bit you will come to a sign which directs you to nearly double back down a steep, somewhat rocky quarter mile of switchbacks to the tree.  It's well worth a few snapshots if you bring a camera or phone.  Leave your name on the trail register.  I also usually leave my time to the tree when running.  Once you climb back up to the main trail, it's worth your while to take the "Shady side" back.  This section is as good as trail running gets.  Shady, smooth, cool mountain feel...it's great.  You then complete the loop and come back the same way you came to that point.   I love this trail.  Map, elevation profile, photos, and rating below:

Due to limited technical capabilities, elevations (on right) are in meters, and are probably only generally accurate.  Working to improve this.  Total climbing of 2050' is pretty accurate.

Glorious singletrack!

Looking to the southwest from near the top of the second ridge.  Logan Peak in the distance.

The trailhead looking northwest.

Caution, slippery river crossing.  Risk of wet, squelchy feet.

Accessibility:  20 minute drive from Logan, passenger car. 3 Stars

Runnability:  Some mildly rocky portions, especially if descending at a fast pace, but overall very good singletrack and no serious hazards, minus the occasional mountain biker on a busy day. 4 Stars

Scenic Value:  Sweeping vistas, forests and meadows, Jardine Juniper tree.  5 Stars

Overall Rating:  4.0 out of 5 Stars.  Well worth running often.