My 4 Favorite Summer Hikes in Park City

As the rest of the snow melts around Park City, a vast network of trails is unveiled. One of my favorite things about summer is rediscovering these routes and taking in the spectacular views. There’s so much to explore, but here are a few of my favorite summer hikes in Park City to add to your list.

Silver Lake Loop

Tired of ducking out of the way of mountain bikers? Head to this tranquil, foot-traffic only trail with plenty of views in Deer Valley—truly one of my favorite summer hikes in Park City.

Overview: This intermediate trail starts by the Sterling Express Lift. Wind your way through shaded Aspen groves then climb to the peak of Bald Mountain. From the top, take in beautiful views of the Jordanelle and Heber Valley. Then follow Ontario trail back down. You can cut out the ascent or descent of this hike by riding the Sterling Express Lift up or down. Deer Valley Loop also makes for a great evening hike with sunset panoramas at the top.

Total time: About 1.5 hours at a steady pace

Dogs: This trail is very dog-friendly. Earlier in the summer, you’ll find ponds – once you crest the top – where your pup can cool off and get a drink.

What to Bring: Most of this trail is shaded, but the steep climb at the top is exposed. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water, especially if you’re hiking at the heat of the day.

Tip: If you hike down the access road instead of Ontario, you’ll arrive right at the Royal Street Café patio, which opens June 16. Reward yourself with lunch or a drink.

Glenwild Trails

For early and late season hiking, you can’t beat this trail system, which dries out quickly and is easy to access. This network is also a great option for early morning or late evening hiking when the temperatures are a bit cooler.

Overview: The possibilities are endless with the Glenwild trail system. You can create numerous combinations of loops and out-and-backs to suit your needs and satisfy your craving for time in nature. Park at the lot on your left up Glenwild Road right off Rasmussen. Then start on Stealth or Blackhawk. You can do a quick out-and-back, aim for a longer Glenwild Loop, or link up with the Flying Dog trails to the west.

Dogs: These trails are very dog-friendly and you’ll find many gallivanting about unleashed. There are a few spots where dogs can cool off in Spring Creek. As always, leash your pup when intersecting others.

What to Bring: Depending on how long you go, you’ll want to bring sun protection as these trails are almost entirely exposed and sun-baked.

Tip: The Glenwild trail system does get quite crowded with hikers, runners, and mountain bikers. Avoid crowds by going very early or late in the day.

Mid-Mountain Trail

The Mid-Mountain spans over 20 miles, stretching all the way from Deer Valley to Canyons. Since it traverses the mountains rather than climbs them, once you access the trail you can enjoy mild uphills and downhills.

Overview: There are numerous ways to customize your mid-mountain trail experience. Hiking up to, all the way across, and down the trail in a single day would be a tall order. The nice thing is that you can access the trail from numerous different points and exit as you please. Climb up Silver Lake trail to access it from its Deer Valley starting point. Join up with the MM in the middle by ascending Jenni’s. Or hike up Ambush to start on the Canyons side. The trail wanders through Aspen and conifer groves and features many breathtaking vistas.

Dogs: Keep dogs on a leash as this is a well-trafficked trail especially on weekends. You might also run into a moose on your path.

What to Bring: Much of this trail is well-shaded, but sun protection is still a good idea. Bring lunch and turn this into a full-day affair.

Tip: There are lots of places to park to access this trail. Depending on where you start, you can park at Deer Valley, Park City Mountain Resort, or the Canyons cabriolet lot. If you don’t want to cover the same ground twice, you can also use the free Park City bus to get back to your ride.

Sundance Hiking

At nearby Sundance lies a whole new world of hiking. While most of my favorite summer hikes in Park City are close by, Sundance is only a 45-minute drive away, making it a great destination for a day trip. This might even be reason enough for a local hiking enthusiast to plan a staycation.

Overview: Sundance Resort offers 10 miles of trails that range from easy strides to steep challenges. You can also enjoy lift-serviced hiking here to cover more ground or take it a bit easier. One beautiful hike accessible for the whole family is the journey to nearby Stewart Falls. A four-mile round trip hike rewards you with a beautiful multi-tier fall plunging into a pool below. For a bigger challenge, summit nearby Mt. Timpanogos.

What to Bring: A daypack with plenty of snacks, water, and sun protection. Since visiting Sundance is at least a day trip with plenty of exploring options, it’s best to plan for a full day.

Tip: While you’re in the area, plan to begin or end your hike with a visit to Sundance Resort’s Foundry Grill. They serve a mean Sunday brunch ad also have a wood-burning pizza oven.

Looking for more info and maps on summer hikes in Park City? Check out Mountain Trails.