Ski Park City — But Wait, There’s More
Your guide to adventuring off the slopes
Winter/Spring 24-25
Written By: Steve Phillips | Images: Courtesy Visit Park City
Mention winter in Park City and virtually everyone thinks of skiing, right? Sure, that’s the big draw, but there’s a lot more to do in this mountain town in winter than schuss down the slopes.
To find out what Park City and the surrounding area has to offer, stop by the Park City Visitor Center at Kimball Junction before driving into town, grab a hot drink at Hugo Coffee and peruse the brochure rack for ideas. Or go to VisitParkCity.com and scroll through the “things to do” list.
Here are a few suggestions bound to appeal to visitors of every stripe:
Fat Biking
Avid bicyclists don’t let a few feet of snow stop them from pedaling. Come winter, Park City’s extensive trail system transforms into a fat bike wonderland. Head for the groomed trails in Round Valley above the National Ability Center for a delightful few hours of pedaling.
Several bike shops around town rent surefooted fat bikes and offer guided tours.
Gallery Strolling
Over a dozen fabulous galleries await art lovers on Main Street and the surrounding area. The galleries showcase the art of a diverse group of regional, national and international artists who work in a variety of forms.
For an intimate gallery excursion, step into the studio and gallery of William J. Kranstover in nearby Peoa. Chances are good that “Kranny,” the artist, will meet you at the door.
Wildlife Watching
Many “watchable wildlife” species winter in and around Park City. It’s not unusual to see herds of elk gathered on the snow-covered fields above the historic McPolin Barn just outside town or on the sprawling Swaner Preserve & EcoCenter at Kimball Junction. And hundreds of majestic bald eagles migrate here each winter. They’re easy to spot for those who look. Find them perched high in the cottonwood trees on both sides of Interstate 80 on the drive between nearby Wanship and Coalville.
Music & Live Shows
Music and live shows abound all winter long at the resorts and in Main Street bars around town. Both the Egyptian Theatre and the Eccles Center book full winter calendars of world-class entertainment.
Traditional favorites include the Park City Holiday Spectacular and Sing-A-Long and Kurt Bestor’s heartwarming Christmas show at the Egyptian the week of Christmas.
Museums
Take a day off from skiing and soak up some history at the Park City Museum, midway up Main Street. Learn about the rough and tumble roots of this 19th-century silver mining town, which was once one of the wealthiest mining towns in the United States.
The free Alf Engen Ski Museum and the 2002 Olympic Winter Games Museum, which are both at the Utah Olympic Park, are must-visits for ski enthusiasts.
Walking Tours
Buckle up for a self-guided pub crawl down historic Main Street. Start from the top of the iconic street with a craft brew from Top of Main Brew Pub, then drop in on the legendary No Name Saloon, O’Shucks and The Cabin.
If a drinking tour of Park City isn’t your vibe, book a Park City ghost tour where you’ll learn about Edwina, the ghost that still haunts the historic Egyptian Theatre.
Snowmobiling & Snowshoeing
Rent a snowmobile for a rambunctious ride to unsurpassed viewpoints and rusted mining landmarks high above town. Several companies offer guided tours for beginner through expert snowmobilers.
Up for some solitude and serious cardio?
Take an all-day snowshoeing tour to the Uinta Mountains, an hour’s drive from town. Traverse the rolling Beaver Creek trail or “bushwhack” through the only mountain range in the lower 48 states that runs east to west.
Winter Fly-Fishing
Gear up for a frosty half- or full-day fly-fishing session on the Provo or Weber Rivers, which are both blue-ribbon-rated and just over 30 minutes by car from Old Town.
Several local companies offer guided fly- fishing trips and bragging-sized brown and cutthroat trout await a well-placed fly year-round. Seasoned fishing guides find the fish and the rest is up to you. Equipment and snacks are provided.
Ice Climbing
For the truly adventurous, ice climbing is gaining popularity at nearby ice-bound canyons. Spectacular waterfalls in Provo Canyon and Little Cottonwood Canyon freeze solid in mid-winter.
Qualified guides lead beginner classes, many of which begin at the foot of the well- known “Stairway to Heaven” waterfall in Provo Canyon.
