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OGDEN — Christmas may have come and passed, but if you are looking to enjoy the season just a little bit longer you can find it in the foothills above Ogden on the Bonneville Shoreline Trail.
This time of year, the trail boasts an evergreen tree that has been decorated for the holiday for several years, but not everyone knows who decorates it. It could be an individual or maybe a group. Some say one person started decorating it, and then others who visit add a decoration or two. Nevertheless, there are two ways to get to the tree.
Shorter, easier route
The shortest route is from the top of 27th Street in Ogden. There is limited parking here, so be courteous and respect property owners in the area.
There are several trail starts in this area and most will eventually lead to the Bonneville Shoreline Trail. If you are not familiar with the area, stay on the trail to the left as you face the mountains. This trail heads east and will take you to the Bonneville Shoreline Trail. When you get to the trail, turn right (south) and follow the trail up a slight incline. After a little more than a half-mile, you come to a little opening and will see the decorated tree.
Longer, more strenuous route
If you are in for a little exercise, the route that starts at the 29th Street trailhead is your choice. There is parking for about 50 vehicles at this trailhead. It is the same trailhead that is used to hike Waterfall Canyon. Part of the trail crosses private property, so please be respectful of this area and the private property so gracious owners will continue to allow access.
Start up the hill from the trailhead signage. The trail is well-used and fairly wide. Follow the trail for a bit and you will be heading in a mostly east direction. At about 0.6 miles in, start to look for a trail that cuts back to the north. This is the Bonneville Shoreline Trail. Stay on this trail until you come to the Christmas tree, at approximately 1.5 miles.
Other things to enjoy along the trail
If hiking in a small group, you can leave a shuttle car at either trailhead and hike from one trailhead to the other.
There is an overlook bench a little more than a mile from the 29th Street trailhead. Take a break and enjoy the view over Ogden City and the surrounding area. While it is important to watch your footing in the winter, make sure to stop periodically and look around. The exposed rocks in the area are beautiful with a layer of snow or two.
If the snow and wind hasn't been too bad, you can see beautiful oak and maple trees that still have last year’s leaves adding rusty browns to the scenery. You can find wildlife, too. Deer are frequently spotted in the foothills along with several bird species.
Trail safety
Depending on recent weather conditions, the Bonneville Shoreline Trail can be icy and wet in the winter, so wear appropriate hiking boots. Some may find hiking crampons advantageous. Trekking poles are always good for balance on snow-packed or icy trails.
Dress in layers and learn to regulate your body heat by adding or deleting a layer or two. Hats and scarves are good for managing heat loss through the neck and head.
Carry a flashlight or headlamp if you are hiking in the evening, in case you need the light to get back to the trailhead.
Trail snacks and hot chocolate in a thermos are always welcomed and help keep body temperatures warm.
