To make your trip planning easy and get access to exclusive deals, you might want to consider working with a travel agency in Park City that specializes in mountain getaways. This guide will help you discover all the unforgettable outdoor activities in Park City that await you.
Whether you’re a seasoned skier, a family seeking summer fun, or an adrenaline junkie, Park City has you covered. The town’s two major resorts, a historic Olympic park, and miles of trails offer endless adventures.
Get ready to hike, bike, ski, and explore your way through one of America’s most exciting mountain destinations.
Winter Wonderland: Skiing, Snowboarding & More
When the snow starts to fall, Park City transforms into a winter playground. This is the main reason many people visit, and for good reason! The ski and snowboard options here are second to none.
Skiing & Snowboarding at Park City Mountain and Deer Valley
Park City is home to two of the most famous ski resorts in North America, each with its own unique vibe.
- Park City Mountain Resort: As the largest ski resort in the United States, Park City Mountain offers an incredible variety of terrain. It has everything from gentle beginner slopes to challenging black-diamond runs. With the Epic Pass, you can access over 7,300 skiable acres across both the Park City side and Canyons Village. It’s a great choice for groups with mixed skill levels, as there’s something for everyone.
- Deer Valley Resort: If you’re looking for a more luxurious, ski-only experience, Deer Valley is the place to be. It’s consistently ranked among the top resorts in the country for its amazing service, perfectly groomed runs, and incredible on-mountain dining. Unlike Park City Mountain, snowboarding isn’t allowed at Deer Valley, so it’s a skier’s paradise.
When planning your trip, consider booking your lift tickets, lessons, and rentals in advance to save time and money. While a travel agency in Park City can handle all the details, you can also explore options like the Epic Pass for Park City Mountain or a multi-day pass for Deer Valley.
Non-Ski Activities for All Ages
You don’t have to ski or snowboard to have an amazing time in Park City. The town offers a ton of other winter sports and adventures.
- Snow Tubing: Head to Woodward Park City for some of the best snow tubing around. They have multiple lanes, and you don’t even have to walk back up—a magic carpet takes you to the top of the hill. It’s a blast for kids and adults alike.
- Bobsledding: For a truly unique and thrilling experience, visit the Utah Olympic Park. This is where the 2002 Winter Olympics were held! The park offers a Winter Bobsled Experience where you can ride with a professional pilot down the actual Olympic track. It’s an exhilarating ride that reaches speeds of up to 60 mph. According to the official website, this experience typically costs around $225 per person and runs from November through early April.
- Nordic Skiing & Snowshoeing: If you prefer a quieter winter activity, explore the miles of cross-country ski and snowshoe trails. The White Pine Touring Nordic Center offers lessons and rentals, and popular spots like Round Valley and Bonanza Flat provide stunning views and peaceful trails.
Summer Adventures: Hiking, Biking & Water Sports
Once the snow melts, Park City transforms again, this time into a mountain biking and hiking mecca. The same slopes that were covered in powder become lush, green trails, and the town truly comes alive with summer outdoor activities in Park City.
Hit the Trails: Hiking & Mountain Biking
Park City is an officially designated Gold-Level Ride Center by the International Mountain Bicycling Association, so you know the trails are top-notch.
- Hiking: There are trails for every fitness level. For an easy, family-friendly hike, try the Historic Union Pacific Rail Trail. It’s a flat, paved path that follows an old railroad line. If you’re looking for something more challenging, the Armstrong Trail offers a great workout with rewarding views. Remember that dogs are welcome on most trails, but must be on a leash unless you’re on the designated off-leash Run-A-Muck trail.
- Mountain Biking: You can bike on the same trails you hike, or you can ride the lifts at Park City Mountain and Deer Valley to access some incredible downhill terrain. When I visited, I found the Mid Mountain Trail to be a perfect ride, connecting the two resorts with stunning views of the valley. It’s important to note that e-bikes have specific rules; generally, Class I and Class II e-bikes are allowed on paved and wide soft-surface trails, but they are not permitted on single-track trails at Park City Mountain Resort.
Thrills & Chills at the Resorts
The resorts don’t close down in the summer; they just switch to a different kind of fun.
- Park City Mountain Resort: Here you’ll find a ton of exciting activities. Take a ride on the thrilling Alpine Slide, a series of twisting concrete slides that you can race down on a sled. Or, try the Mountain Coaster, a ride similar to a roller coaster that winds through the trees. For a truly unique experience, soar above the trees on the Park City Mountain Zipline.
- Utah Olympic Park: The fun continues at UOP in the summer. You can ride the Flying Eagle Zipline, which zips you down a ski jump, or try out the Adventure Ropes Courses and drop towers. The park offers a “Summer Gold Pass” which gives you a 3.5-hour session to try multiple activities. According to their website, passes range from $20 to $70 depending on the season and time of day.
Fun on the Water
Even though Park City is in the mountains, water sports are easily accessible just a short drive away.
- Jordanelle Reservoir: This massive reservoir is a hub for water activities. You can rent a boat, jet ski, kayak, or paddleboard from outfitters like Jordanelle Rentals. The lake is a popular spot for wakeboarding, fishing, and simply floating in the sun.
- River Rafting & Tubing: For a fun and relaxing trip, go tubing on the Provo River. If you’re looking for more of a thrill, guided rafting trips are available on the Weber River, offering some exciting Class II rapids.
Year-Round Fun: What to Do Anytime
Some of the best spots in Park City are open all year long, making them perfect for any time of your visit.
Woodward Park City: The Ultimate Action Sports Hub
Woodward is a fantastic spot for anyone who loves action sports. The massive indoor hub has trampolines, foam pits, and skateparks, while the outdoor mountain park has terrain parks and a bike park. It’s great for beginners and experts alike, with a wide range of lessons and programs available. You can purchase an All-Access ticket, which typically starts at around $99 and includes everything from the indoor hub to lift-served terrain. They also offer tubing year-round.
Visit a Travel Agency in Park City for Local Insights
While planning a trip to a place with so many options can be fun, it can also be overwhelming. That’s where a travel agency in Park City can be a lifesaver. These local experts have insider knowledge on everything from the best-hidden trails to booking dinner reservations and finding a ski-in, ski-out condo. They can customize your itinerary to match your interests and ensure you get the most out of your trip.
Planning Your Trip: Expert Tips & Essential Info
To make sure your adventure goes smoothly, here are a few things to keep in mind.
Finding the Perfect Gear
Don’t worry if you don’t own a full set of ski gear or a mountain bike. Park City has a ton of great rental shops. You can rent high-quality skis and snowboards from places like Town Lift Ski and Board Rentals, while shops like Jans and Park City Bike & Demo are known for their great bike rentals and expert advice.
Working with a travel agency can help you get discounts on your gear.
Understanding Local Rules & Regulations
Park City is dedicated to safety and preserving its natural environment. When you’re out on the trails, be aware of the following:
- Backcountry Safety: If you’re planning on venturing into the backcountry, always check the avalanche forecast from the Utah Avalanche Center. Take a safety course and carry the proper gear.
- E-Bikes: As mentioned, e-bike rules are specific. Class I e-bikes are allowed on paved and wide soft-surface trails, but not on narrow single-track trails. This helps protect the trails from wear and tear.
Making Park City Accessible for Everyone
One of the best things about Park City is its commitment to making outdoor recreation available to everyone.
Adaptive Sports for All Abilities
The National Ability Center (NAC), located right in Park City, is a world-renowned non-profit that offers adaptive programs for people of all abilities. They provide expert coaching and specialized equipment for a wide range of activities, including skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, rock climbing, archery, and watersports.
The National Ability Center has truly helped make the outdoors a place for everyone to enjoy.
Upcoming Events & Festivals
Park City is a town that loves to celebrate, and there’s almost always something happening.
- Summer: Keep an eye out for the Park Silly Sunday Market, a huge street festival with local food and art, and the Kimball Arts Festival, which fills Main Street with artists and vendors.
- Winter: The Sundance Film Festival draws huge crowds every January. You can also catch major ski races like the FIS Ski World Cup or enjoy free concerts and events at the resorts throughout the winter season. The town loves to celebrate the end of the ski season with fun events like the Spring Concert Series and the Pond Skim.
Your Park City Adventure Awaits
Whether you’re carving down powdery slopes, hitting the trails on two wheels, or soaring through the air on a zipline, Park City, Utah, offers an unparalleled outdoor experience for every season and every adventurer.
From the world-class ski resorts of Park City Mountain and Deer Valley to the thrilling bobsled runs at the Utah Olympic Park and the serene beauty of Jordanelle Reservoir, this guide has only scratched the surface of what awaits you.
And if you want to get the most out of your visit, consider reaching out to a travel agency in Park City. They can help you streamline your planning and unlock exclusive deals, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable trip.
With its commitment to accessibility, diverse activity offerings, and a vibrant community that celebrates the outdoors year-round, Park City isn’t just a destination—it’s a gateway to your next great adventure. Get ready to explore, challenge yourself, and create lasting memories in this mountain paradise!