Nestled in the foothills of the Wasatch Mountains, Draper is a lively city south of Salt Lake City. It was first settled by Europeans in the mid-19th century and was named Draperville after a local family. By the 1940s, Draper had established a reputation as the “Egg Basket of Utah” due to its thriving poultry business.
Things to do in Draper
In the heart of the city is the Hidden Valley Shopping Center, which is home to a supermarket, a thrift store and a handful of fast-food eateries. It’s located just a stone’s throw from Draper City Park, where you’ll find recreational courts, two children’s playgrounds and a circular walking trail. You can admire the views of Willow Creek from the Continental Bridge or visit after dark to see the illuminated Tree of Life.
Centred around a charming gazebo is Draper Historic Park, which is a popular destination for wedding photography. It’s dotted with markers detailing the early settlement of Draper, as well as sculptures reflecting the city’s cultural heritage. Paved walking trails wind their way past the park’s seasonal gardens and picturesque fountain.
On the eastern edge of Draper is the Bear Canyon Suspension Bridge, which is nestled in the foothills of the Wasatch Mountains. Designed by Ralph L. Wadsworth, it was completed in 2015 and is dedicated to those who built the area’s hiking trails. The Bear Canyon Suspension Bridge connects to the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, which stretches for around 240 kilometres along the shores of a former lake.
Getting around Draper
Draper is around 20 minutes’ drive from the centre of Salt Lake City and 30 minutes from Salt Lake City International Airport, which has flights to destinations across North America. Light rail services stop at the Draper Town Center Station while buses also travel throughout the city.