Park City,
Utah

You have to visit the Rocky Mountains at least once. And, after that, you know you'll keep coming back for more—not only for the views that make you realize that you're truly in America but also because there's always something new to discover. One of those places is Park City, which is nestled in the Rockies' Wasatch Range and offers small-town charm and world-class outdoor recreation all year. Interested? Well then, let's take a look at all the things to do in Park City.

Population: Approximately 8,254 people

Elevation: A little over 7,000 feet (the surrounding peaks reach over 10,000 feet)

Average Annual Snowfall: About 355 inches

Sunshine: 222 sunny days a year

Nearest Airports: 

• Salt Lake City International Airport: 35 minutes away

Best Times to Visit:

• Winter (December–March): Prime skiing and snowboarding
• Summer (June–August): Hiking, mountain biking, and outdoor concerts
• Fall (September–October): Beautiful foliage and reasonable temperatures
• Spring (April–May): Lower prices and fewer crowds

Park City is surprisingly accessible for a mountain destination, with most people taking a direct flight to Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). From there, it's only about a 30- to 40-minute drive to Park City via I-80 East.

You don't need a car on this trip; however, you can easily rent a vehicle if needed. Additionally, plenty of rideshare services can take you to and from the airport or areas beyond Park City's limits. During the winter, there are also shuttle services that frequently run between SLC and the town. Even if you're planning on staying in the neighborhood, a public bus connects to the resorts, hotels, and the major things to do in Park City.

Park City offers memorable outdoor recreation year-round, including:

• Camping: If you're into backcountry camping, there's the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest and remote areas off the Mirror Lake Highway. Jordanelle State Park is another great option, especially for anglers who want to fish in its Blue Ribbon waters.
• Climbing: Echo Canyon and Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons offer nearby climbing routes.
• Hiking: There are over 400 miles of trails ranging from picturesque, low-impact walks to challenging summit climbs.
• Mountain Biking: The IMBA Gold-Level Ride Center has terrain for all skill levels.
• Skiing and Snowboarding: There are locales for beginners, experts, and everyone in between, like Park City Mountain, Super Condor, and Canyons Village.

Want a place to relax after indulging in some winter sports? Rest your head at Deer Valley or Park City Mountain. Both resorts offer ski-in/ski-out options for maximum convenience when you want to hit the powder as soon as possible.

You can also consider downtown accommodations that can put you closer to dining and local attractions.

Historic boutique hotels and luxury properties along Main Street cater to those prioritizing dining and nightlife access. Meanwhile, vacation rentals are abundant throughout Park City, offering more space and amenities when looking for a home away from home.

Park City's dining scene rivals its outdoor attractions with options ranging from casual eateries to fine-dining establishments. High West Distillery is the world's only ski-in gastro-distillery, offering exceptional whiskey and elevated mountain views in a historic setting.

Locals and visitors stop at the No Name Saloon for relaxation after a day of Park City activities. It's famous for its buffalo burgers, rooftop patio, immense cocktails, and reasonable prices. For a more traditional après-ski experience, check out The Corner Store. You'll enjoy a great blend of casual food, local beers, and mountain views. Meanwhile, the Stein Eriksen Lodge offers a more upscale experience and fireside cocktails.

Beyond traditional outdoor recreation, Park City offers distinctive attractions you won't want to miss during your visit, like:

• Utah Olympic Park: Watch Olympic-level athletes train on the ski jumps or even go on a bobsled run guided by an experienced driver.

• The Alpine Slide and Mountain Coaster at Park City Mountain Resort: Enjoy family-friendly excitement as you descend through beautiful alpine terrain.

• Silver Lake Trail: History enthusiasts can explore Park City's mining heritage in a guided tour of the mining structures.

• Deer Valley Resort Concerts: Need some more Park City summer activities? The free outdoor concert series offers the perfect blend of music, mountain views, and community atmosphere, making Park City unique.

The Mid-Mountain Trail offers over 20 miles of intermediate hiking and biking with stunning views. Armstrong Trail provides panoramic vistas of the entire valley. Rob's Trail features similar terrain at a fraction of the foot traffic found on more popular routes. Always remember to layer your clothes due to rapid temperature changes at high elevations.

• Winter Essentials: Topo Designs Mountain Pack, Puffer Jacket, and base layers.

• Summer Adventures: Rover Pack, shorts, and all-day pants.

• Year-Round: Sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and water bottles.

Pack your Topo Designs gear and explore Park City's unique combination of accessible wilderness, world-class recreation, and small-town charm.