Summer in Park City is one of the most breathtaking times of year, offering a wide variety of outdoor activities for all ages. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking to dive into mountain adventures or a family searching for memorable kid-friendly experiences, Park City delivers the perfect blend of sunshine, nature, and high-elevation fun. From scenic hikes and mountain biking trails to alpine slides, outdoor concerts, and historic strolls through Old Town, the area transforms into a vibrant warm-weather playground each year. With over 400 miles of trails and an average of 300 days of sunshine, it’s no surprise that Park City remains one of the most beloved summer destinations in the West.
Why Park City Is the Ultimate Summer Destination
When people think of Park City, winter skiing often comes to mind—but summer here offers an entirely different kind of magic. Warm sun, cool mountain breezes, and endless open space make it an ideal location for outdoor exploration. Sitting around 7,000 feet above sea level, Park City offers cooler summer temperatures than many low-elevation cities. This mountain town blends adventure, relaxation, and culture, making it a place where families, outdoor enthusiasts, and even casual travelers will find something to love.
Summer also means fewer crowds compared to ski season, creating a relaxed atmosphere ideal for leisurely activities like outdoor dining, scenic drives, or browsing local boutiques and galleries. Get Your summer getaway planned and prepared now with us at Park City Rental Properties.
| Activity | Quick Take | Why It’s Great in Summer |
|---|---|---|
| Hiking | 400+ miles of trails ranging from stroller-friendly boardwalks to big summit days. | Easy nature walks, wildflower-filled forest routes, and challenging peaks mean every ability level has options. |
| Mountain biking | IMBA Gold-Level Ride Center with hundreds of miles of singletrack plus lift-served bike parks. | Smooth beginner loops, flow trails, and iconic ridge rides make it a bucket-list destination for riders. |
| Alpine & thrill activities | Alpine slide and coaster, ziplines, scenic lifts, mini-golf, and on-mountain adventure parks at local resorts. | Families and thrill-seekers can mix adrenaline rides with relaxing chairlift views in one easy stop. |
| Water & wildlife | Nearby reservoirs and rivers offer paddling, rafting, and fishing, with frequent moose and deer sightings in the hills. | Cool off on the water by day, then watch for wildlife along scenic roads like Guardsman Pass and Mirror Lake Highway. |
| Family fun | Summer camps, bike parks, kid-friendly trails, playgrounds, and interactive museums keep kids busy all week. | Multi-generational groups can split up for adventures then reunite for easy dinners, concerts, or sunset strolls. |
| Old Town & culture | Historic Main Street, the Park City Museum, galleries, boutiques, and patio dining in a walkable district. | Perfect for no-agenda afternoons browsing shops, learning local history, and lingering over food and drinks. |
| Events & music | Summer brings outdoor concerts, markets, and food and art festivals across town and at the resorts. | Built-in entertainment most weekends adds easy, ready-made plans for evenings and non-hiking days. |
| Getting around | Free local bus system connects Old Town, and major trailheads; bike share available in warmer months. | Visiting without a car is simple and budget-friendly, especially for families and groups. |
Best Hiking Trails for All Experience Levels
One of Park City’s greatest summer assets is its extensive, well-maintained trail system. With gentle walking paths, intermediate forest trails, and challenging summit hikes, every visitor can find a route that matches their pace.
Family-Friendly Hikes
These trails offer minimal elevation gain and are ideal for kids, grandparents, or anyone who wants a relaxed experience.
1. Swaner Nature Preserve Trail
- Easy, flat boardwalk loop
- Incredible wildlife viewing
- Perfect for strollers and young hikers
2. McLeod Creek Trail
This peaceful trail runs between Park City and Kimball Junction with gentle terrain and shade-covered sections.
3. Armstrong Trail
While slightly more elevated, Armstrong is still a great family option thanks to its well-designed switchbacks and cool forest canopy.
Moderate Trails for Adventurous Explorers
If you’re ready for something more challenging, Park City offers dozens of mid-range trails that reward hikers with panoramic mountain views.
1. The Mid-Mountain Trail
A local favorite, this 20+ mile trail traverses the mountains at roughly 8,000 feet. You can hike sections of it and enjoy wildflowers, aspens, and scenic overlooks.
2. Round Valley Loop
Sunny, wide-open terrain filled with desert shrubs, sagebrush, and rolling hills. Ideal for early morning or sunset hikes.
3. Glenwild Trail System
A perfect mix of intermediate terrain and beautiful views of the Snyderville Basin.
Advanced Trails for Summit Seekers
For experienced hikers looking for a challenge, Park City offers exceptional summit treks.
1. Jupiter Peak
A steep, rugged route with rewarding 360-degree summit views.
2. Desolation Lake via Mill D North
Strenuous but stunning, especially during wildflower season.
Mountain Biking: A Park City Summer Staple
Park City is the first IMBA Gold-Level Ride Center, making it one of the world’s premier mountain biking destinations. With hundreds of miles of singletrack and lift-access biking at Park City Mountain and Deer Valley Resort, riders of all skill levels can find trails suited to their abilities.
Great for Beginners
- Round Valley – Flowing trails, minimal elevation gain
- Trailside Bike Park – Ideal for practicing skills in a controlled environment
Intermediate & Advanced Trails
- Deer Valley Resort Downhill Trails – Chairlift-accessed terrain with flow lines, berms, and jumps
- Wasatch Crest Trail – One of Utah’s most iconic rides, offering dramatic ridge-top views
Alpine Adventures for All Ages
Park City’s ski resorts transform into thrill-filled adventure hubs in the summer.
Park City Mountain Adventures
Popular activities include:
- Alpine Slide
- Alpine Coaster
- Zip lines
- Mini-golf
- Gem panning & climbing walls (for kids)
Kids love the adventure park atmosphere, while adults can enjoy scenic lift rides or relax at the base area with a drink.
Deer Valley Summer Activities
Deer Valley offers:
- Lift-served mountain biking
- Scenic chairlift rides
- Outdoor concerts at the Snow Park Amphitheater
This resort is known for its polished, luxurious feel and is a great option for couples, families, and older travelers.
Water Activities: Cool Down in Style
Utah’s Wasatch Back offers plenty of refreshing summer water experiences.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding
One of the most popular options is Jordanelle Reservoir, just minutes from Park City. With calm waters and picnic areas, it’s ideal for families.
River Rafting and Tubing
The Weber River offers tubing and rafting adventures suitable for beginners. Tour companies provide guides, equipment, and safety gear.
Fly Fishing
Park City is near world-class fishing spots, including:
- The Provo River
- The Weber River
- Local ponds for beginners
For extra Information on wildlife activities and more visit Utah Division of Wildlife Resources .
Outdoor Experiences for Kids
Park City is incredibly family-friendly in the summer. Many activities cater specifically to children or offer fun ways for families to explore together.
Summer Camps
Local programs include:
- Woodward Park City Summer Camps – Action sports, tumbling, trampolines
- Swaner EcoCenter Camps – Nature-based exploration
- Kimball Art Center Camps – Creative sessions for budding artists
Parks and Playgrounds
- Willow Creek Park
- Trailside Park
- City Park
With splash pads, playgrounds, sports fields, and shaded picnic areas, these spots are great for low-key family time.
Old Town Park City: History, Culture, and Summer Charm
No summer visit is complete without an afternoon in Historic Main Street, a district filled with colorful buildings, boutique shops, art galleries, and local eateries.
Park City Museum
Learn about mining history, skiing culture, and how Park City evolved from a silver mining town into a world-famous destination.
Dining Done Right
Enjoy everything from high-end restaurants to local favorites serving pub food, tacos, ice cream, and more. Summer evenings are perfect for patio dining.
With a wide variety of events, history, and archived documents, you’ll be sure to want to check out the Park City Museum.
Scenic Drives and Wildlife Viewing
Summer is prime time for wildlife sightings, especially around dawn and dusk. Park City’s open spaces are home to:
- Moose
- Deer
- Elk
- Red foxes
- A wide variety of birds
Best Scenic Drives
- Guardsman Pass – One of the most beautiful mountain roads in Utah
- Mirror Lake Highway – High-elevation lakes and lush forests
- Emigration Canyon – Smooth, scenic, and accessible
Bring a camera—these routes offer some of the best views in the region.
Outdoor Music, Festivals & Events
Park City’s summer calendar is packed with outdoor events.
Popular Options Include:
- Deer Valley Music Festival
- Savor the Summit (Utah’s largest outdoor dinner party)
- Park Silly Sunday Market
- Kimball Arts Festival
Live music, local vendors, art shows, and gourmet food make these events must-dos for visitors.
A few more Summer Ideas for All Ages
Beyond the marquee attractions, some of Park City’s most memorable summer moments come from the simple pleasures that fill in the gaps between bigger adventures. Start a morning with a leisurely stroll along a creekside path, stop at a local bakery for pastries and coffee, and then let the day unfold organically—maybe a last-minute chairlift ride, a playground stop, or an impromptu photo session on Historic Main Street. These spontaneous experiences often become the stories families remember most.
Multi-generational groups will also appreciate how easy it is to customize each day. Active travelers can head out for a big hike or bike ride, while those who prefer a slower pace browse boutiques, visit a spa, or relax with a book on a shaded patio. Everyone can reunite later for a casual dinner and an evening concert, market, or sunset drive.
Finally, consider building in a “flex day” with no firm plans. Use it to revisit a favorite hike, try a new restaurant, or simply enjoy the cool evening air from a balcony or deck. Giving your schedule some breathing room ensures your Park City summer escape feels like a true vacation, not a checklist.
Tips for an Amazing Summer Visit
Weather Considerations
Although summer days are warm, evenings can be cool—bring layers.
Altitude Awareness
Park City sits around 7,000 feet, and many surrounding peaks and passes rise close to 10,000 feet, so stay hydrated and give yourself time to acclimate.
Transportation
Free public transit makes getting around easy, even without a car.
Final Thoughts
From celebrated biking trails to family adventure parks, gentle streams for splashing, and local wildlife encounters, Park City’s summer scene adapts to every age group and interest. As you plan, check real-time event calendars, consider booking unique activities like hot air ballooning, and don’t forget to leave time for unstructured play in Utah’s sunny mountain air. When you’re ready to turn those plans into reality, come vacation with us at Park City Vacation Rentals and enjoy a comfortable home base close to all the action.
