10 Must-Do Summer Adventures in Park City, Utah

Park City gives adventure enthusiasts a ton of great choices for outdoor fun in the summer, a fact that is commonly overlooked due to the area's deep winter powder. Summer temperatures are perfect for hiking in the foothills or jumping in one of the many nearby lakes and rivers. There are a bunch unique and unexpected adventures that can be found in Park City, which is why this area is becoming known as one of the best all-around destinations for an active lifestyle.

1. Mountain Bike on World-class Terrain 

If you didn’t know that Park City is the first ever International Mountain Biking Association’s Gold Level Ride Center and they have over 400 miles of trails, then let us welcome you to this two-wheeling haven. There is endless single-track, challenging downhill trails, and beautiful family-friendly rides to round out the fun to be had. The Rail Trail is a great way to kick off a trip in Park City, and the whole family can join in on the fun. Rent bikes from Jans, Cole Sport or White Pine, or just lace up your boots and get moving down this relatively flat and packed dirt double-track following the route of the former Union Pacific Rail Line.

For those looking for more of a challenge, grab your bike and head over to Round Valley for some exciting single-track, or try Mid Mountain Trail for an epic, beautiful ride. And for the real thrill seekers, the lift-served mountain biking at Deer Valley Resort is a must. 

2. SUP the Ponds at Deer Valley

In the heart of Deer Valley sits a small series of ponds that are perfect for your stand up paddle boarding cravings. With no speed boat wakes to mess up your perfect form and gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains, you could spend hours floating here. Bring your own board, or make a stop at Park City SUP to rent – and they also offer classes, demos, and guided tours if you’re looking for a little more direction.

3. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

Seeing Park City and the surrounding area from the sky is an incredible way to make your trip unforgettable. Peer into the Cottonwood Canyons and clear over to the Uinta Mountains while quietly drifting in the skies.  Local guiding companies Skywalker Balloon Company and Park City Balloon Adventures offer weather-dependent rides daily. You’ll never forget these sunrise moments experienced while floating above Park City, which makes the early wakeup call totally worth it.

4. Visit Historic Main Street

Historic Main Street is quite literally Park City’s main attraction. Chock-full of bars, restaurants, art galleries, boutique shops, spas and Town Lift, Main Street puts you smack dab in the heart of the action. Enjoy an award-winning meal, pick up the perfect designer outfit, take in some of the town’s revered art, revel in the nightlife, or simply grab a coffee and enjoy the views and people watching. Visit the Park City Museum to learn about the history of this once silver mining town turned ski town.

5. Get an Adventure Pass

While Park City winters are notorious here for big snow and vast slopes, the summers have just as much adventure tucked within resort boundaries. With a Park City Mountain Resort Adventure Pass, you'll be able to spend all day taking advantage of everything the resort has to offer — the alpine coaster, alpine slide, rock climbing wall, and lift-access biking and hiking at  — while enjoying a day outside with the family. The hardest part will be choosing where to start!

6. Raft the rapids of Weber River

Utah boasts incredible rafting adventures for those fans of whitewater out there, and Park City is lucky enough to have a diverse range of river offerings right at its front door. Make a trip down the Weber River with Park City Rafting and choose from 2-hour trips to full-day excursions that are the perfect adventure no matter the size of your group.

7. Head to the Utah Olympic Park

If there’s one thing that shouldn’t be missed while in Park City, it’s the Utah Olympic Park. Even a quick stop in or drive by will have any visitor ogling the facilities, and the activities offered within during the summer months are unbeatable. You’ll have an absolute blast here with the tubing, zip lining, summer bobsled, ropes courses, and plenty more to round out an action-packed day.

8. Visit the Uinta National Forest

With its majestic peaks, miles of backcountry and seemingly endless beauty, the Uinta National Forest offers visitors a breathtaking retreat. A favorite among backpackers, anglers and adventure seekers alike, the forest offers an unparalleled amount of access and activities to enjoy. And it’s all within easy reach of Park City, making a day trip easy and accessible.

Wander along the wildflowers and varied terrain of the Lofty Lake Loop, experience 360-degree views atop Bald Mountain, or simply take a scenic drive along the Mirror Lake Highway. No matter what you choose, it’s sure to be a one-of-a-kind experience.  

9. Go Horseback Riding 

See the landscape on the back of your trusty steed. In Park City, you have the option of any of the dozens of companies that take you out to public lands, as well as private ranches. One of our personal favorites is Adventures at The Stillman Ranch, where you can choose from horses for all experience levels and explore breathtaking trails throughout this 9,000-acre ranch located just east of Park City in the Uinta Mountains.

10. Camp out in Rockport State Park

Rockport Reservoir and its state park make a pleasant weekend or afternoon getaway on the east side of the Wasatch Mountains. Have your pick from nine different campgrounds and pair your day (or two) on the water with starlit evenings on the shore.