Ski Resorts do Summer, too.
Even when the snow is gone, Park City's resorts become a vibrant adventure hub with thrilling ziplines, scenic trails and mountain biking for all types of adventurers.
For years, I’ve always thought of Park City as a winter destination. Ski resorts such as Deer Valley, Park City Mountain and Woodward Park City draw visitors from around the globe winter after winter. But life doesn’t stop in Park City once the snow melts.
Summer activities such as mountain biking, hiking and fly fishing are abundant in and around the town. Ski resorts switch operations, transforming into bike parks with hundreds of miles of trails accessible from either the chairlift or the trailhead. (Read: A Classy Warm-Weather Weekend in Park City)
One thing’s for sure: don’t sleep on a ski resort summer.
Trail Systems Beyond the Bike Parks
While it is hard to beat 1,000-plus feet of elevation gained by doing nothing more than sitting on a lift, I was thoroughly impressed with Park City’s trail systems. The trails are well-built, well-maintained and thoughtfully designed, with many designated as directional trails, meaning they are restricted for climbing only or descending only. This keeps trail conflict to a minimum, ensuring I didn’t crash into an ascending mountain biker as I ripped down.
I had the opportunity to ride a newer trail system just outside of Park City called Slate Creek. The nearly five-mile climb was perfectly built, with a few punchy bits here and there but mostly a gradual 1,200-plus foot ascent. And down was spectacular. Fast and flowy where I wanted it, but chunky where it needed to be. Turns snuck up fast, and finding optional side hits or pulling for bigger gaps (or attempting to do so) spiced up the system from its intermediate rating. Slate Creek is easily a trail system that riders of all skill levels can enjoy.
While I had to take a shuttle to make it to Slate Creek, that seems to be the minority experience in Park City.
“I think there are a couple of things that make Park City special,” says Scott House, senior director of partner services at the Park City Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau. “One of the big ones is that no matter where you stay, your garage is your trailhead. You can access a growing 450-mile-plus trail system from just about anywhere in town.”
And that is precisely what I experienced while staying in the central village area: mountain bikers making their way up to the “Mother Urban” climbing trail to find an exciting route back down. Others head over to trail systems like Round Valley to jump on one of their nearly 100 trail offerings, most of which are at the intermediate level. However, many trails are designed to cater to all — inexperienced riders can take it easy, and more advanced riders can find opportunities to push their limits.
And while mountain biking will always be my first choice, mile after mile of Park City’s Rail Trail provides an alternative for gravel grinders or casual cruises. And the best part? You can pedal right to the trailhead, no cars needed.
Summer Activities in Park City
It isn’t all mountain biking in Park City. Outdoor adventure and family fun await those traveling to the city on vacation.
“When the riding is done, you have access to lakes, rivers, fishing, hiking, dining, hot air balloons — you name it,” House told me.
Many of the trails in Park City are multi-use, meaning hikers and trail runners also share singletrack with mountain bikers. For those looking for summer resort activities that don’t include two wheels, resorts like Park City Mountain offer scenic lift rides and gondola tours. For a bit more excitement, the resort also has 3,000-foot alpine slides and mile-long mountain coasters that reach speeds of up to 25 m.p.h. Those who aren’t afraid of heights can try the ZipRider, one of Park City Mountain Resort’s ziplines towering over 110 feet above the mountain.
Sometimes, all the adrenaline can be a bit overwhelming, and calmer activities offer a welcome respite. If a resort didn’t offer an activity I was interested in, they could easily point me in the direction of those who did. Fly fishing, disc golf, or even a stroll through the Park City Farmers Market are all excellent options for spending a half or even a full day.
Soar through the sky at exhilarating speeds on Park City's ZipRider and take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the landscape below.
Park City makes summer hiking effortlessly accessible with stunning paths just minutes from town.
Dining on Park City’s Main Street
Park City’s historic Main Street was where I spent the majority of my evenings, although I could have probably spent an entire day there. For shopping, the street is lined with unique boutiques and fun local shops, with phenomenal art studios sprinkled in.
The food scene here is exceptional, ranging from casual cafes to fine dining. Park City Desserts & Coffee is an easy stop in the morning for great coffee and a quick bite. Restaurants like Shabu and Firewood serve up outstanding dishes, from Shabu’s renowned sushi to the seasonal food cooked over a wood flame at Firewood.
One thing’s for sure: I was never hungry.
Utah's first legal distillery since 1870, High West began crafting spirits in Park City in 2007, where its flagship Saloon remains a unique ski-in experience. Discover more with a tour and tasting at their scenic distillery in Wanship.
Park City's culinary scene shines with Firewood serving up outstanding seasonal dishes cooked entirely over a wood flame.
High West Saloon
How to Get to Park City
All of this mountain town adventure is happening less than an hour away from the Salt Lake City airport. Rental cars or shuttles (I took the latter) are straightforward to schedule to and from the airport. (Read: Traveling to Utah)
Once in Park City, a car is not really needed. Accessibility and Park City go hand in hand. I regularly walked from my condo to Main Street for evening dinner or drinks, and more trails than I could ride during my visit were within pedaling distance. Additionally, Park City has an excellent public transit system, with bus drivers often serving as pseudo-tour guides, happily answering questions and providing directions.
“And, let's not forget the free public bus system that shuttles you up the mountain or can pick you up after the end of a long ride,” House reminded me.
Whether mountain biking, hiking, or embarking on another outdoor adventure, summer in Park City, Utah, is a truly incredible experience. From a weekend getaway to an extended vacation, you’ll never run out of new things to do.
Not being much of a winter sports guy, I was somewhat skeptical of what my Park City experience would be like. But, I guess what they say is true: "come for the winter, stay for the summer.”
Park City Classy Warm-Weather Weekend
There are many ways to build a magical weekend in Park City. Three days can easily include art galleries, spa time, boutique browsing, food, and live entertainment. And, of course, the mountains make the place, so hiking boots are recommended for your pack list, but you don’t have to spend the entire time — or any time — in outdoor-gear mode. There’s plenty to do, and the itinerary can be as laid-back or active as you like.
Highlights
- Kimball Art Center
- High West Saloon
- Spa Treatments
- Park City Nighlife
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