If you’ve been to Park City, Utah for a ski-trip, then things like snow gear, skis, and warm clothing are at the top of your packing list. However, despite its wintery persona, Park City comes alive in the summertime with rolling green hills, hiking trails dotted with wildflowers, and outdoor activities unique to the warmer months. Does this surprise you, leaving you a little confused on what to pack? If so, don’t worry! This guide will help you figure out everything you need for a Park City summer vacation.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll walk you through what to wear, what to bring, and what to do to maximize your summer getaway in Park City. We’ll discuss ways to stay cool, through fashionable yet functional clothing. We’ll also explore some of Park City’s top summer attractions and explain how staying in a vacation rental from Park City Vacation Rentals can make your summer vacation in Park City an experience to remember!
What to Pack and Wear for a Park City Summer Vacation
You’ve got your suitcase out, and you’re surrounded by clothing everywhere you turn. Each item you think you’re going to pack, you toss to the side – confused and in despair about the weather, experiences you can have, and what to wear on any given day. We’re here to help!
You’re going to want to think in layers when it comes to packing for your summer vacation in Park City. This city is located at over 7,000 feet above sea level, meaning the temperatures can fluctuate quickly and noticeably, even during the summer months. The day might start off with a crisp cool morning, warm up to a sunny 80-degree day and be back to needing a jacket in the evening. This what makes layers key. Dressing in adaptable, layered clothing will keep you comfortable. No matter what the temperature decides to dip to, you’ll be ready.
Daytime Essentials
What do you consider your perfect ensemble? What are the elements? Well, for Park City – you’ll want to consider easy, breathable fabrics that are lightweight, maybe even moisture wicking. These are ideal if you’ll be engaging in the many different outdoor activities for which Park City is known.
Breathable materials help regulate your body temperature and pull sweat away from your skin. These are ideal if you’re going for a hike, mountain bike ride, or even a round of golf. Unlike heavy cotton, performance fabrics and athletic attire can dry quickly – leaving you feeling fresh, even if you’ve worked up a sweat.
Pair tops with flexible hiking shorts, athletic leggings, or lightweight pants made from stretchy, quick-drying materials. Park City’s hiking and biking trails often involve a little bit of rock scrambling, trekking up switchbacks, and possibly some uneven trails. Wearing clothing that moves with you will make a huge difference in your overall comfort and enjoyment. Plus, if after a hike you decide to do a little shopping or dining – having an extra sweater or jacket in the car can level up your outfit to suit the occasion.
Layers Are a Lifesaver
Even when the forecast calls for sunshine, mornings and higher-elevation spots can feel chilly. A lightweight fleece or packable jacket is a must. Simply throw it on when you’re going to grab coffee in town or walk along an early morning trail. As the day warms up and the sun reaches its peak, it’ll be no big deal to peel back that extra layer and stash it away in your backpack or car.
Another key item could be a breathable, waterproof rain jacket or shell. Mountain weather can be unpredictable, and summer showers do happen, bringing a change in winds and temperature. Stay dry and avoid having to cut your Park City adventures short just because it rained. Packing a small packable umbrella could be useful for this reason as well.
Walk Smarter, Not Harder
What you wear on your feet is just as important as any other part of your ensemble. You are bound to do a lot of walking during your summer vacation in Park City. And why not? The weather is beautiful and there’s much to see and do that can be accessed on foot. Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers are essential. Think support for your arch, good sole grip, and versatile for any occasion. To explore downtown Park City, walk through farmers markets, festivals and more, you’re going to need the right pair of shoes!
For outdoor activities like hiking, trail running, or biking, you’ll want to consider packing, hiking boots or trail runners with solid grip and ankle support. Trails here can be rocky, steep, or slick with loose gravel. Wearing footwear that provides traction and stability helps prevent slips and sore feet. This means you’ll be able to do more for longer, with the right footwear.
Planning to spend time by the water? Pack water shoes or durable sandals designed to get wet. They’ll save your regular shoes from meeting their soggy demise while offering you better traction on slippery rocks during paddleboarding, tubing, or wading in the cool mountain streams.
Evening Outfits
Going for dinner and drinks downtown? Go on a date looking and feeling your best. Collared shirts paired with jeans or slacks, or easygoing summer dresses, flowy blouses and tops paired with denim or linen pants will help you match the Park City evening vibes.
The trick is to bring versatile pieces that can shift easily from day to evening. A sundress you wore to brunch can work just as well at a patio dinner with the addition of a light cardigan and simple jewelry. Or that polo shirt you wore to play golf can be transformed with the addition of some dark wash jeans. Have fun with it. Plan out your itinerary and mix and match outfits so you can pack lighter.
Don’t Underestimate the Need for Sun Protection
It’s summer. Everyone wants to work on their tan and there’s nothing wrong with giving yourself a golden glow. However, you’ll want to keep in mind that the sun feels very strong at higher elevations. Being 7000 feet (or 2,134 meters) above sea level means UV exposure is more intense, and sunburns can sneak up on you quickly if you don’t take precautions.
Pack high SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen and apply it generously before heading outdoors, and remember to reapply throughout the day. Sunglasses with UV protection are a must, as the bright sunlight reflecting off mountain slopes and lakes can be surprisingly harsh on your eyes. A wide-brimmed sunhat, fedora or cap would also be a smart item to include on your packing list, keeping you stylish and shady for your summer days in the sunshine.
A Final Tip: Pack Smart, Stay Flexible
With a thoughtfully packed bag full of comfortable, practical, and versatile clothing, you’ll be ready to experience all that Park City has to offer – in any weather, rain or shine! Giving a little thought to your packing list will help you to be ready for whatever your summer days in Park City may bring.
Additional Items to Pack
Beyond your daily clothes, make room in your suitcase for gear that enhances your summer in Park City.
Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during hikes and save money on single-use plastic bottles. Often you can fill up before you head out for the day and fill up at water stations or if you dine out at restaurants.
A compact backpack will be great for carrying items you need for long days out, like a sweater or jacket for later in the evening. You can also store daily essentials, snacks, binoculars for wildlife watching, and a camera to capture those summer moments.
Don’t forget to pack swimwear! If you choose the right vacation rental, like the ones from Park City Vacation Rentals, there’s a chance you might have an on-site pool or hot tub to use. Swimsuits are also necessary for outdoor excursions like rafting, tubing, or swimming in the lakes and rivers of Park City.
When it comes to daily essentials, consider adding a small first aid kit to your list along with insect repellent. This will help you ward off any intruding bugs and handle any small cuts or bruises that arise when doing any outdoor activities.
Summer Adventures in Park City
Park City is home to an incredible variety of things to do outside in summer.
Biking is definitely a summer activity you’ll want to try during your visit. With over 400 miles of scenic trails for mountain biking and paved routes for road cyclists, there’s a path for every rider. Rent a bike locally or bring your own. Travel through trails that wind along wildflower meadows, mine sites, and shady forests.
Are you an angler? Get in some good fly fishing in nearby rivers like the Provo and Weber, where the fish are biting and the views are spectacular. If you are just getting into the sport, guided fly-fishing tours are available to help you learn the ropes in Park City. Whitewater rafting and other water sports are also popular this time of year. If you want something a little else intense, try paddleboarding or kayaking.
When you’re ready to hit the trails on a hike, choose from trails like the Armstrong Trail, Silver Lake Trail, and Bloods Lake Loop are all favorites that will challenge you while immersing you in the summer beauty of Park City.
You can also take in Park City in out-of-the-box ways like horseback riding or hot air balloon rides. Go with a local guide on a guided horseback ride through the forest or take to the skies in a hot air balloon ride with any of the various balloon companies in the area.
There’s also the thrill of a zipline ride or alpine coaster at Park City Mountain Resort. Speed through the trees or race downhill on tracks that twist and turn – a great new way to have fun outdoors this summer. With so many outdoor activities, now you can see why it’s essential to pack wisely!
Where to Stay? Park City Vacation Rentals!
Stay in a vacation rental that feels like home with the property professionals at Park City Vacation Rentals. Where you stay can make or break your summer vacation. Would you rather have a typical, run of the mill hotel stay? Or stay in a vacation rental that’s spacious, beautifully designed and equipped with the amenities that make your summer vacation amazing? Something tells me you’ll want the latter.
Inside your Park City summer rental is a tastefully furnished home with a mix of mountain aesthetics and modern luxuries. Families and groups can enjoy time together in open living areas, while private bedrooms help everyone to experience their own space. Prepare homecooked meals inside your full kitchen using delicious summer produce. Many homes also offer features like large decks with mountain views, hot tubs for soaking under the stars, and outdoor grills where you can grill up your favorites for a summer barbecue!
After a long day doing all the best summer activities, nothing beats returning to a space where you can relax in the air conditioning, recharge, and recap the best moments of the day. Moments of downtime are even fun thanks to smart TVs, game rooms and even theater rooms!
The rentals are central to the activities we discussed and so much more. Best of all, the local team behind Park City Vacation Rentals is committed to making your summer stay as amazing as possible. You’ll be well taken care of by a team who pay attention to detail, offer 24/7 guest services, and have a deep knowledge of the area.
Start Packing for Your Summer in Park City!
You’ll be ready for any adventure by following the packing advice in this guide. Be sure to pack versatile and comfortable clothing, while still being able to express your personal style. Bring the right gear to keep you safe from the sun and ready for any weather.
Book your Park City summer vacation rental through Park City Vacation Rentals, and treat yourself to a comfortable, spacious and luxurious home away from home. We can’t wait to see you this summer in beautiful Park City!
