Parley's Hollow

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Parley's Hollow

Tanner's Park and Parley's Historic Nature Park are located in a Salt Lake neighborhood at 2700 E 2700 S. This is just south of Interstate 80 near the mouth of Parleys Canyon. If you are Eastbound on I80 by taking exit 171 (2300 South). Take the first left and drive East for a half mile.

Tanner Park includes tennis courts, a playground, pavilions and a walking trail. On the East side of Tanner's Park, a dirt road drops into Parley's Hollow. Parley's Hollow is home of the Parley's Historic Nature Park. This 88 acre park includes ruins of early pioneer structures including an old aquaduct.

History of the Hollow

Although the very first pioneers to Salt Lake traveled through Emigration Canyon. Later travelers found Parley's Canyon to an easier route. Parley's Canyon also proved more suitable for road construction.

As the gateway to Salt Lake City, Parley's Hollow was one of the first areas settled in the Salt Lake Valley. The Hollow sported several inns and taverns that served visitors to Salt Lake and cross country travelers. I imagine this would have been one of the most exciting places in pioneer Utah.

Eventually, the major roads into Salt Lake were diverted from the base of the hollow to the hills above the hollow. The land that was was once the gateway to the city now became a secluded hidden nook in the valley.

In the late 20th century, the land in Parley's Hollow was acquired by the Sons of Utah's Pioneers and others with the intention of creating a nature reserve and park. The area was popular with bird watchers. The park also became with dog owners.

The park became an unofficial off leash area in the early 2000s. It is currently going through a 1 year trial period as an official off leash area from November 2005 through November 2006.

The onslaught of dogs into the Hollow was a great disappointment for the people who donated lands specifically for a nature preserve and historic park. There is fear that the dogs will hasten errosion and trample the preserved foundations of historic structures.

Dog owners love the area as the Hollow provides a safe enclosed area where dogs can run free and swim in the creek. (See online pet stores).

Future Plans

Parley's Hollow is prime real estate in the heart of major metropolis in the West. Salt Lake City is currently planning an ambition program to create green corridors and trails throughout the valley. Planners hope create the The Parley's Corridor Trail that will run from the Sugarhouse Park area, through Parley's Hollow. This trail will eventually connect with the Bonneville Shoreline Trail on the East side of I215.

This trail would make Parley's Hollow a preferred route for pedestrians and bikes.

Context: Parks - Utah