When people think of Salt Lake City neighborhoods, names like Sugar House or the Avenues might come to mind first. But tucked away on the city’s west side is Poplar Grove—a historic, evolving neighborhood with deep roots and a story worth telling.
More Than Just a Name
Poplar Grove often gets lumped in with its southern neighbor, Glendale—and it’s easy to see why. The two share proximity, history, and even some city services. But what many people don’t know is that Poplar Grove was a community before Glendale ever existed.
Back in the late 1800s, a man named Edwin Rushton and his family planted a grove of poplar trees in the area. That natural landmark gave rise to the name “Poplar Grove,” which stuck through the decades. Fast-forward to the 1990s, and local residents took a stand to officially distinguish their neighborhood. Following Salt Lake City’s Neighborhood Guidelines, they submitted a proposal to the City Council—and won. Poplar Grove became the first neighborhood in Salt Lake City to redefine its original boundaries.
Where Is Poplar Grove?
The neighborhood stretches from I-15 on the east to 5600 West, making it the second largest neighborhood in Salt Lake City (after Glendale). Its northern edge is North Temple, bordering Fair Park (from I-15 to 1000 West) and Rose Park (from 1000 West to 5600 West). The southern border is around 900 South, with the old railroad tracks—now the Nine Line Trail—marking the true dividing line between Poplar Grove and Glendale.
Interestingly, while the neighborhood spans west all the way to 5600 West, there are fewer than a dozen homes west of Redwood Road (1700 West). Much of the land in that area remains undeveloped or industrial, but things are slowly changing.
A Community with a Voice
Today, Poplar Grove isn’t just a collection of streets—it’s a community with its own elected community council, committed residents, and a strong sense of identity. Whether you’re walking the Nine Line Trail, exploring nearby parks, or attending a community meeting, you’ll find that Poplar Grove is rich in history and full of potential.
So next time you’re driving west of I-15 or exploring Salt Lake City’s lesser-known neighborhoods, take a moment to get to know Poplar Grove. You might just discover a part of the city that’s been growing, evolving, and thriving for over a century.