End-of-Summer Bucket List for Park City Locals (with kids and dogs!)

As kids prepare to return to school and September looms ahead, the end of summer in Park City feels near. As usual, I have to wonder how the time flew by at such breakneck speed. But instead of developing a case of preemptive nostalgia for summer’s finest dog days, I like to make a bucket list of the activities I want to squeeze in before the leaves really do start to turn.

Of course, an end-of-summer bucket list in Park City will differ from person to person and family to family depending on your hobbies, but I thought I’d share a few ideas to make the most of the rest of summer. All of these activities are kid- and dog-friendly so no babysitting/dog boarding required!

Photo Credit: Scott Finley

Journey into the Uintas

When kids and dogs are part of the summer activity equation, shade and lakes are a must. The Uintas have plenty of both, not to mention cooler temperatures thanks to higher altitudes. While the Uintas have their share of challenging, expert-only terrain and backpacking adventures, they also has mellow trails that lead to gorgeous alpine lakes where your kids can wade and your dogs can cool off. While it does attract crowds, the Trial Lake area is one such easily accessible area where pristine lakes are plentiful. Provo River Falls is another great spot to take in beauty and energizing negative ions alike from a series of cascading falls.

A day at the beach in Park City? Nothing’s impossible in this big-thinking ski town

Surf’s Up at Promontory

If you own a home in Promontory, then you likely already know about this luxury resort community’s enviable amenities. But if you haven’t already heard lore about the highest elevation beach in the Lower 48, then it’s time to find a friend who does own a Promontory property. Or, spring for an epic staycation with the Promontory Summer Discovery Package. For $995, you get two nights in a luxury cabin, a round of golf, a $100 dining credit, and access to amenities. Spend the day pretending you’re seaside at the Beach House, with real sand, pools, and cabanas. If the kids grow restless, the Kids’ Cabin awaits with games and crafts. And for your pooch? A dog park right off Ridge Trail.

Photo Credit: Sundance Mountain Resort

Escape it All at Sundance

“Sundance is and always will be a dream,” says owner Robert Redford. I completely agree. This is a doable day trip that will restore and recharge. Hit up the delicious Sundance Deli first to get some sandwiches (and milkshakes, if you please–this is a bucket list after all). Then hike around the trails or trek up to magical Stewart Falls, where your pup can get a drink. Sundance also makes a great spot for a one or two-night staycation less than an hour from home.

Photo Credit: Utah Olympic Park

Adrenaline Rushes at Utah Olympic Park

A day at Park City’s very own Olympic Park is always a fun family excursion and if you haven’t made it up yet this summer, now’s the time to go. For adventurous kids (and parents), plenty of activities await, from zip lining and extreme tubing to outdoor obstacle courses. You can also check out the history of the park (and cool off) inside the museum. Dogs are allowed in the area on leash and you can also make a pit stop at the Run-A-Muk dog park en route.

Day at Deer Valley

Everyone who knows me also knows of my love for Deer Valley, no matter the season. If you haven’t taken advantage of the beauty there yet, please do. You can ride the lift up or take the whole family for a hike. We love the Silver Lake Loop, but there are so many other hiking possibilities. Atop the Silver Lake Loop is a pond where you dog(s) can hydrate–or pack water if you’re planning another route. On the way home, stop for lunch or a snack at one of Park City’s best kept secrets: the Deer Valley Grocery Café, where dogs are allowed on the patio. Indulge in a BLT Bloody Mary (or just an actual BLT) and if you’re there on a Thursday or Sunday, you can also catch one of the patio concerts.