Discover Utah’s ultimate adventure playground that is Park City. The largest ski resort in the U.S. offers winter sports, including snowmobiling, snowshoeing, skiing, and snowboarding. Summer opens up world class mountain biking, hiking, and more. And not to mention great year-round dining experiences in this historic mining town. Here’s a complete seasonal look at the best things to do in Park City.
Park City, Utah is a year round destination for the adventure seeker and luxury traveler alike. The resort town springs to life as the air warms up, offering an abundance of summer activities until the slopes once again open for downhill bliss in the cold winter mountain air.
Founded in the mid-19th century as a mining town, Park City is conveniently located to Salt Lake City. The downtown area still maintains much of its historic charm and abounds in luxury accommodations, shopping, and dining options to appeal to even the most discerning traveler. But beyond the downtown, the mountains beckon to be explored and adventure is always just around the corner.
With so many possible adventures to choose from, grab a duffel and pack liberally and systematically so as to keep track of your gear. These are the seven best things to do in Park City from summer through to winter and back again.
Summer Activities in Park City
Mountain Biking
As the snow melts each season, it reveals more than 450 miles of mountain bike trails lurking beneath. If you want to take advantage of the lift assist option, plan your summer mountain biking trip between mid-June and mid-September. Strap on a waist pack and let the lifts, the same ones used during the winter months, do the uphill work while you enjoy some downhill bliss. And while each day on the mountain can be magnificent, riding above and beneath the aspen groves as they display their golden fall foliage is truly a spectacle to behold.
Hiking
If careening down a trail on a bike at breakneck speeds doesn’t seem appealing, consider exploring the trails around Park City by foot. Lace up your hiking shoes or boots and grab your daypack replete with all of your essentials for the day and hit the trail. From beginner to experienced, the diversity of summer hiking trails in the area offer options for strolls through aspen groves and wildflower meadows to sweeping views of the Wasatch Mountains.
Fly Fishing
Each spring, as the air begins to warm and the powder melts and the rivers swell, it also signals the hatching season for flies and other insects. And that can only mean one thing. It’s fly fishing season. Stand along the shore or wade into the pristine waters of the Provo River and cast a line as you perfect your form in this tranquil oasis.
Winter Activities in Park City
Skiing & Snowboarding
Of the more than 500 ski resorts in the United States, Park City arguably reigns supreme as the largest of the bunch. Let’s break it down by the numbers. The resort has over 7,300 skiable acres, over 3,200 feet of vertical rise (base elevation is 6,800 feet while the summit is over 10,000 feet), average snowfall is greater than 350-inches, and 41 lifts serve 348 trails.
Did we mention that it’s the largest in the nation?
Also, in 2002, athletes from around the world descended on Park City as the mountain hosted four events at the Winter Olympic Games. This world class resort has something for everyone regardless of your ability (or agility) on the snow.
Snowmobiling
There’s no greater feeling than saddling up on a snow rocket (aka snowmobile) and racing across the snowy landscape. And while there are numerous outfits in the area, there’s one that offers access to Utah’s largest private ranch. Thousand Peaks offers access to over 60,000 acres and the highest experience offered in the state at over 11,000 feet. Riders can choose from 2-, 3-, and 4-hour snowmobile tours. And boasting over thirty feet of snow annually, it’s guaranteed to be the ride of your life.
Snowshoeing
Channel your inner snowshoe hare as you seemingly walk on the surface of the snow. And while it may look relatively easy, it can be quite challenging when getting off one of the many groomed trails. Park City has hundreds of miles of trails to explore on foot throughout the winter months. Hiking on a groomed trail is similar to hiking and is a great activity for the entire family. Looking to up the ante? Go off-trail for a more exhilarating (and challenging) experience.
Dog Sledding
What could be more breathtaking than mushing through the backcountry with man’s (and woman’s) best friend? Realistically, not much. Within a short drive of Park City, several companies offer the unique opportunity of dog sledding with professional guides.
Whether you’re packing for a snowy adventure in Park City or warm-weather summer hikes , use durable gear that’s up for any adventure.
While Eagle Creek is here to provide tips and insights on travel, we cannot accept any responsibility for any potential consequences arising from the use of this information. Always conduct your own research and use your best judgment.
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