A Guide to Adventurous Outdoor Activities in Park City

May 1, 2025

Key Takeaways

• A former mining town with immeasurable beauty, Park City boasts stunning alpine scenery, lush greenery, and wildflower-filled meadows that transform into snow-covered landscapes as temperatures drop or elevation rises.
• Park City offers a wide range of adventures year-round, from skiing and snowboarding in winter to hiking, biking, and water activities during warmer months.
• One of the best ways to capture all of Park City’s beauty is through an aerial adventure, such as a hot air balloon ride or paragliding, which gives you a bird’s-eye view of the region.
• You should stay hydrated and pace yourself during strenuous physical activities, especially since it can take time for your body to adjust to the high altitude of 6,998 feet.

Finding Park Outdoor Adventures in Park City

Nestled in the Wasatch Mountains, Park City is a former mining town that now serves as a haven for outdoor adventurers with a myriad of interests. Whether you want to use a pair of skis to carve down powdery slopes during the winter or explore alpine trails under the warm summer sun, there is undoubtedly a wide range of outdoor adventures in Park City and nearby areas like Heber Valley that will appeal to you year-round.

Park City offers a range of adventurous activities, including land-based outings such as hikes and mountain biking, as well as aerial adventures like breathtaking hot air balloon rides. The city also offers a range of water-based activities, including kayaking and fishing, along with winter activities such as snowboarding and snowshoeing. Nevertheless, some people prefer a more laid-back experience, opting to go stargazing or visit historical sites.

This in-depth guide will make it easy to find fun things to do in Utah that can scratch an adventurer’s itch. Visitors should spice up their trip by adding some of the Park City adventurous activities below to their schedule.

Land-Based Adventures

Whether you want to explore alpine trails on foot or navigate rugged mountain paths by bike or ATV, Park City’s terrain gives you access to adventures at every elevation. The following ground-level thrills are excellent for getting up close and personal with the region’s natural beauty.

Hiking and Trail Running

Park City and Heber Valley, Utah, are home to countless trails, making hiking and trail running an excellent way to experience the area’s beautiful scenery. Some popular hikes near the heart of Park City include:

• Bald Mountain via Silver Lake Trail – Hikers start this scenic trail at Deer Valley’s Silver Lake area and climb through aspen groves and wildflower meadows to get sweeping summit views of the Wasatch Range.
• Bloods Lake Trail – This is a family-friendly route that is relatively short and shaded. It leads to a stunning section of alpine lake that is perfect for a peaceful picnic or a refreshing dip if it is hot out.
• Armstrong Trail to Dawns Trail Loop  – This loop offers a moderate climb through a lush forest and open ridgelines. It showcases unique terrain and quiet stretches, with fewer crowds than other hiking trails.

No matter what trail you choose, be sure to carry plenty of water and wear sturdy footwear. If it’s hot outside, be sure to wear sunscreen and try to hit the trails early in the day to avoid the sun.

Outdoor Rock Climbing

Over the years, Park City has grown into a hub for many climbers—it has a variety of canyons with fun, natural challenges. For example, American Fork Canyon is great for both beginners and seasoned climbers. It features exciting bolted sport routes set amidst scenic surroundings. Another popular option includes Big Cottonwood Canyon, which offers steeper, more technical routes. This climbing route also offers a quiet, picturesque environment.

Regardless of which route you choose, you should always use proper climbing gear and check weather conditions before going out. Consider hiring a local guide service, such as White Pine Touring, if you have not tried rock climbing in the area before.

Mountain Biking

Park City is considered a Gold-Level Ride Center by the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA). In fact, this city was the first destination to achieve such a designation, rendering it a pioneer in mountain biking trails and amenities.

Two popular trails you should try to experience Park City’s world-class mountain biking scene are:

• Mid Mountain Trail – This 20-mile ride consists of moderate terrain, lush forests, and incredible ridge-line views that are hard to beat.
• Armstrong Trail – This uphill-only trail takes riders on a moderate climb through shaded woods, making it an enjoyable ascent with access to other higher-elevation routes like Mid Mountain Trail.

To help you save space while traveling, you can use bike rental services like the ones offered by Park City Mountain Resort. No matter where you get your gear, always wear a helmet and go slow while getting acclimated to Park City’s 6,998′ elevation. For anyone wanting a seamless experience, guided tours are widely available through companies like White Pine Touring.

Off-Roading and ATV Adventures

If you prefer using a motorized vehicle over pedaling or hiking, Park City and Heber Valley offer high-quality, dynamic terrain suitable for vehicles with off-road capabilities. The Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest features numerous trails designed for off-highway vehicles (OHVs), including all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), four-wheelers, dirt bikes, motorcycles, and other similar vehicles. Many of these trails wind through meadows, forests, and rocky terrain, offering riders unparalleled views.

Be sure to check the permit requirements for each off-roading area you plan to visit, and follow local OHV laws and rules to protect the land. If you are traveling from a distance, several outfitters offer ATV rentals and guided tours for added convenience. For instance, Wasatch Excursions offers unguided rentals starting at $219 and guided tours starting at $299. 

Aerial Adventures

Take your Park City experience to new heights with the aerial adventures below. From soaring hot air balloons to tandem paraglides, these sky-high excursions will give you a whole new perspective by showing you Utah from above.

Hot Air Ballooning

There’s nothing quite like floating above Utah’s stunning valleys and mountains shortly after sunrise—consider a hot air balloon ride in Park City and Heber Valley with Rainbow Ryders, an experienced company with an impeccable safety record. The calm skies and high elevations make this area one of the most scenic places in the country for hot air ballooning. Just be sure to dress in layers and book your flight in advance because flights tend to fill up quickly during the summer and fall.

Some steps you can expect during a Rainbow Ryders flight include:

1. Check in at Black Rock Mountain Resort to start your adventure
2. Shuttle to the pilot-chosen launch site
3. Watch the balloon inflate and help the crew get ready for takeoff
4. Climb into the basket and wait for a final safety check
5. Fly above Heber Valley and capture photos of Park City’s priceless views
6. Celebrate with a toast after slowly landing
7. Shuttle back to the office to finish your adventure

Usually, this entire process takes about 3 ½ to 4 hours, making it a substantial, fun-filled experience. This experience typically costs between $225 and $375 per person, depending on factors such as the rider’s age and the date of their reservation.

Paragliding and Hang Gliding

For visitors seeking an adrenaline rush and craving a spectacular view, paragliding and hang gliding are must-try activities. There are a multitude of launch sites near Park City and Heber Valley that offer tandem flights for beginners. 

Consider Utah Paragliding and other local schools that provide experiences for all skill levels, including tandem flights and skill-building lessons. Regardless of the person’s skill level, people interested in paragliding or hang gliding should visit in the late spring or early fall, as those times usually provide the most stable air for flight.

Ziplining

Take your Park City adventure to the treetops and ride through the Gambel oaks, Quaking aspens, Bigtooth maples, and Ponderosa pines that populate the area. Some popular zip lining spots include:

• Park City Mountain Resort – This resort features two prominent zipline courses: Flying Eagle, suitable for kids, and Ziprider, which offers a higher level of intensity.
• Utah Olympic Park – This area features a freestyle zipline that can ease people into the more intense extreme zipline, which is one of the steepest in the world.

A single zipline ride typically costs between $21 and $33. To help guarantee you get the timeslot you want, book ahead during peak season. In addition to scheduling preparedness, you should also focus on safety precautions, such as wearing closed-toe shoes to protect your feet.

Water-Based Adventures

When the sun’s out and the snow has melted, Park City’s lakes and rivers become a lot of people’s favorite place to cool down. The following water-based outdoor adventures in Park City are refreshing ways to explore the area’s outdoor playground.

Kayaking or Paddleboarding

You can make it easier to cool off and explore Park City’s tranquil waters by bringing a kayak or paddleboard—convenient rentals are available through outfitters like Park City SUP or Jordanelle Rentals. After securing your gear, ride through the Jordanelle Reservoir, which offers wide-open spaces and easy access for large groups of paddlers. Another go-to choice for standup paddleboarding is Deer Valley, home to Pebble Beach.

Rafting or Tubing

If you want to speed things up, check out rafting opportunities from local companies like High Country Adventure, which offers rafting at the Weber River and the Provo River near Park City. Another thrilling option is Barefoot Tubing, which offers tubing services starting at around $35 per rider. Keep in mind that rafting and tubing services are typically only offered from spring through late summer, ensuring the best possible experience by utilizing seasonal water conditions.

Fishing

Anyone interested in fly fishing or simply casting their line from a dock can get something out of Park City’s plenty of peaceful waters. Specifically, Jordanelle Reservoir and Echo Reservoir are prime fishing spots. In this region, you can expect to catch a wide range of fish, from rainbow trout and bass to kokanee salmon,

According to the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, fishing permits are required in Park City, making it essential for visitors to plan ahead if they wish to fish. To truly make the most of your experience, consider guided fishing trips offered by local outfitters like Trout Bum 2, led by professionals.

Winter Adventures

Like most of the state, the greater Park City area can get heavy snowfall during the winter. But you don’t have to let the snow slow you down. Cold-weather enthusiasts can embrace Park City’s winter wonderland by exploring the following activities.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Although it is a popular spot during the summer, Park City really shines in the snow, and that is evident by the large influx of skiers and snowboarders. Some noteworthy places with great snow-covered slopes include:

• Park City Mountain Resort – This is one of the largest ski areas in the U.S., offering terrain for every level. The summit of the mountain is known as Jupiter Peak, and it is located at an elevation of 10,000 feet above sea level.
• Deer Valley Resort – This ski resort is known for delivering a luxurious experience and offering immaculately groomed runs. However, it is essential to note that it only allows for skiing—no snowboarding is permitted here.

The best time of the year to hit the slopes usually falls between November and April, but you should keep an eye on weather conditions to get more certainty.

Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing

Skiing at fast speeds is not for everyone, but there are still other ways to experience the snowy landscape. For a slower-paced winter adventure, try snowshoeing at McLeod Creek Trail or Bonanza Flat during the winter. To help visitors have a convenient and valuable trip, many Nordic ski centers, such as White Pine Touring, offer cross-country trails, gear rental opportunities, and guided tours or lessons.

Even if snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are more casual than high-speed winter sports, you should still bring snacks and water because winter treks can be surprisingly demanding. Don’t forget to dress in layers as well!

Unique and History-Based Experiences

Adventure in Park City and Heber Valley doesn’t stop with traditional outdoor sports like skiing or mountain biking. Step into the city’s rich past, saddle up for a mountain ride, or witness the magic of the night sky through the culturally rich and extraordinary experiences below.

Exploring Unique Historical Sites

If you want to wind down from adrenaline-heavy activities, you can take a step back in time at sites like the Heber Valley Historic Railroad. This attraction is just 20 minutes away from Park City, giving you easy access. While you’re there, ride vintage trains through scenic valleys and learn about the region’s mining history.

Alternatively, you can check out the Homestead Crater at the Homestead Resort. Guests of the resort can take a dip in this geothermal spring, housed inside a 55-foot limestone dome. Scuba diving inside may give you a whole new perspective on the area’s beauty.

Horseback Riding

If you want to ride through Park City atop a furry friend, look into guided horseback tours. These options can offer a unique and peaceful way to explore the jaw-dropping mountains. Look into companies like Red Pine Adventures and Destination Sports, which lead rides through the Uinta and Wasatch Mountains.

Although prices can vary, horseback riding in Park City typically ranges from $100 to $150 for an hour-long or hour-and-a-half experience. Nevertheless, some horseback riding services will allow you to choose from short valley rides or full-day mountain treks to give you complete control of your adventure.

Stargazing

When the sun sets, Park City’s dark skies come alive, shining with bright stars. Some of the best areas to see the city’s starry night sky from are:

• Jordanelle State Park – Just minutes away from Park City, Jordanelle offers a variety of park features, including boardwalks, a nature center, and year-round access for night sky viewing—be sure to check out Rock Cliff, its darkest area.

• Rockport State Park – Positioned between Wanship and Peoa, Rockport offers Scorpion Walk and Star Talk programs, which highlight the importance of dark skies for nocturnal wildlife. ​
• East Canyon State Park – Located near State Route 65, East Canyon gives stargazers clear views of the Milky Way and offers various overnight accommodations, making it convenient for extended stargazing trips.

If you’re interested, consider going for a night hike if your stargazing location permits after-dark entry. Combining the beautiful night sky with a fun hike can be a spectacular combination.

Safety and Travel Tips

Park City and Heber Valley give visitors a memorable mix of heart-pumping adventure and natural beauty. From snow-capped peaks to starlit lakeshores, there’s always something to discover. Nevertheless, it is essential to plan your trip wisely to ensure safety and maximize your experience.

Best Time to Visit

As you plan, remember that the best time to visit for hikers is between June and August—the summertime is also perfect for water sports. On the other hand, December through March is best for snow activities like skiing. 

Packing Essentials

You should pack items depending on the activities you are interested in. Some items you may benefit from bringing are: 

• Sturdy shoes
• Layered clothing
• Sunscreen
• Reusable water bottles
• Backpack

High-Altitude Tips

If you are coming from an area closer to sea level, you may have to go through an adjustment period for Park City’s high altitude. Some tips for managing high altitude are: 

• Stay hydrated
• Pace yourself
• Give your body time to adjust if you’re coming from sea level.

As you are taking on outdoor adventures in Park City, be sure to rely on local resources. Check out companies like All Seasons Adventures and the Utah Adventurer Center for rentals and guided tours.

Experience the Ultimate Park City Adventure with Rainbow Ryders!

With so many outdoor adventures in Park City, it can be challenging to decide how to spend your trip. If you want to maximize your time on the ground, consider hiking through the mountainous landscape or renting a trail bike. Alternatively, skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing are popular amongst thrill seekers during the winter. 

Some people enjoy taking advantage of the area’s gorgeous bodies of water through activities like rafting or fishing. However, some of the most popular Park City adventurous activities are in the sky, like paragliding and hot air balloon rides. 

If you’re considering booking a hot air balloon ride, turn to a reliable company with a stellar safety record—choose Rainbow Ryders. Our team offers unforgettable flights over Heber Valley that show off Park City’s scenic landscape and are sure to bring smiles to families, couples, and thrill-seekers alike.

Visit our website to book a memorable hot air balloon ride with ease, or contact us if you have any questions or concerns.