10 Sounds of Summer
(AND THE ACTIVITIES THAT MAKE THEM)
Summer 2020
Written By: Ashley Brown | Images: Courtesy Rick Braveheart and adobestock.com
For many, summer is the most anticipated season of the year. Long days and warm evenings are the perfect setting for summer activities. And when it comes to activities, Park City doesn’t disappoint. The city and surrounding area are full of modalities that will have you enjoying the sun with family and friends — or even carving out a little “me time.”
Take the ideas listed below as a launching point to start a new tradition, find a favorite way to unwind, or do something outside the norm.
1. Farmers Market Buzz
On Wednesday afternoons, the Park City Farmers Market transforms the Park City Mountain Resort parking lot into a community hub. While browsing local summer bounty, you’ll hear children laughing as they run to Wasatch Creamery for a sweet treat, the gentle murmur of neighbors meeting, and the soft sound of piano or guitar. Grab some fresh berries from Weeks Berries of Paradise, juicy peaches from Smith’s Orchards, spicy micro greens from Ma Paws, wildflowers from Ranui Gardens, and German rye bread from Volker’s Bakery.
2. Make a Splash
When the temperature in Park City hovers above 90 degrees, it’s time to take a drive to the Uinta Mountains. Only 45 minutes from Park City, the Uinta’s are a breath of fresh air. The temperature is usually about 10 degrees cooler, and the mountains house dozens of lakes that are ripe for swimming. Take a dip right off the highway at Mirror Lake or pull out a map — or talk to a local — and plan out a hike-to destination.
3. Jam Out
In the summer, Park City transforms from a ski town into a legitimate musical destination. And even though COVID-19 has put a stop to many of the area’s beloved live music events, you can still swing by the free Canyons Village Summer Concert Series on Thursdays and Sundays for the chance to get down. Don’t forget to bring a blanket, picnic, and refreshments!
4. Pop the Top
An ice-cold beer is the perfect way to end a big day of hiking, biking, or frolicking in the sun. Park your six-pack on the porch, front stoop, or hotel balcony and soak up the mountain views. Or, better yet, stop by a local brewery, sit on the patio, and take in the summer bustle. Try the Evolution Amber Ale at Wasatch Brew Pub or freshen up with American Wheat Hefeweizen at Squatters Roadhouse Grill.
5. Snap, Crackle
Summer isn’t complete without a camping trip. Luckily, there is plenty of dispersed camping a short drive from Park City. Pack your hiking boots, bike, or fly-fishing gear, and enjoy a weekend in the woods. Arguably the most exciting part of camping is the campfire, so bring the s’more fixings and gather ‘round the fire’s snap and crackle.
6. The Sound of Silence
With the kids out of school, work deadlines looming, and so much to do and see, summer can be exhausting. Some days, the sound of silence is all you need to take a step back and refresh. SYNC Float Center is the perfect destination for an overly stimulated brain. Melt away life’s demands and expectations with a sensory deprivation tank experience. By the time the float session is over, you’ll feel rejuvenated and ready to get back to summer fun.
7. Munch
If summer had mandatory rules, enjoying a proper picnic in nature would be at the top of the list. The picnic destinations in Park City are endless — from City Park to one of the many viewpoints accessible by hiking or biking. Pack a meal filled with local delicacies: “stick bread” from Red Bicycle Breadworks, house-made hummus fromRiverhorse Provisions, and brie from Park City Creamery. For a romantic afternoon, bring along a bottle of Old Town Cellars’ Townie Rosé.
8. Escape the Heat
When the intense midday sun has you running for the shade, try out a Pilates class at Salt Method. The studio’s walls are made from blocks of Himalayan sea salt, which help cleanse your lungs, naval cavities, and sinuses while you workout. Take this time to slow down, listen to the sound of your breathing, and give yourself a little “me time.”
9. Talk with the Aspens
Take a solo hike or bike ride, find a grove of aspens, sit down, close your eyes, and listen. Aspens are not individual organisms — they’re all connected beneath the earth and considered to be one organism. Stretch out and listen as the aspen leaves rustle, their wordless music providing a reprieve from our word-centered world.
10. Listen and Learn
Just because school is out, doesn’t mean education has to stop. Learn about the area’s wetlands and native flora and fauna at Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter.Then, check out Park City Institute’s schedule of upcoming authors and speakers or catch a free virtual movie thanks to Park City Film.
Editor’s Note: Check venue websites for any COVID-19 impacts or schedule changes.
