Once a booming mining town, Park City, Utah has become a world-class mountain village over the years, hosting the Winter Olympics in 2002 and the Sundance Film Festival each year.
Besides all the glitz and glam Park City is remarkably unique surrounded by three major mountains: Park City Resort, The Canyons and Deer Valley. Although Deer Valley is one of the last skier-only mountains in the U.S., it is nice to go hang at the St. Regis and mess with stuffy skiers.
The Canyons is about five minutes from Park City, but is like another zone completely, with several hotels and condos including the swanky Waldorf Astoria.
Park City Resort is the main spot to shred right in town offering vast terrain, top-ranked parks and nightriding until 9 p.m. Park City should definitely be at the top of your vacation hit list.
Here's the lowdown:
Downtown Park City
Night riding at Park City
WHERE
Conveniently located 30 miles from Salt Lake City, Park City is one of the most visited mountain towns in Utah. Park City lies in the Wasatch Mountain Range, garnering consistent snowfall and plenty of sunny weather each season.
A vehicle is really unnecessary unless you're planning on checking out Salt Lake or other areas of Utah. There is a great free transportation system and bus stops are close to most lodging options.
GETTING THERE
With endless daily non-stops flights to Salt Lake City, flying is a great option. There are many private SUV's and shuttles for a reasonable amount into Park City. Look around online and you will find plenty of options instead of renting a car.
Once in Park City, there are free shuttles, and it is super easy to travel around from downtown to the mountain. Most of the shops and restaurants are right on Main Street. Take a stroll and take in all the bustling village has to offer.
Aaron Biittner / Rob Mathis photo
TERRAIN
Park City Resort consists of eight peaks and nine bowls. The setup of the mountain is easy to navigate making it simple to get away from the crowds after a few lift rides.
There are still many old rundown mine features everywhere, which is kind of neat. You can't ride them, but they add to Park City's character.
The mountain overall isn't as steep as nearby Brighton or Snowbird, but follow the signs on the trail map to the black diamonds and you're sure to find goods on a powder day. Personal mountain tours are also available.
Park City is known to have the best parks (shown at left) in Utah, and for good reason. The maintenance is on point and the variety of jumps, jibs and unique features is nothing any other mountains has.
Another PC highlight is the alpine slide. Mix up your day on the hill and fly through the trees on the amazingly fun alpine slide.
GET THE FACTS
Vertical drop: 3100
Uphill capacity: 30,200 guests per hour
Annual Snow Fall: 360 inches – Snowmaking covers 500 acres
Lifts: 16
Alpine Slidin'
Base Eleveation: 6,900 feet
Summit Elevation: 10,000 feet
Skiable Acres: 3,300 spread over eight peaks and nine bowls
Average Temp: 34 degrees fahrenheit December, 40 degrees fahrenheit in March
Lift Ticket Pricing:
- $90 full day adult
- $80 half day 12:30-4p.m.
- $67 nightriding 4-9p.m.
Many multi-day rates are available as well as Fast Track passes online at: www.parkcitymountain.com/winter/tickets/lift_tickets
Parks:
- Three Kings
- King's Crown
- The Ridge – each for different riding levels.
- One Superpipe
The parks even stays open at night ro ride until 9p.m.
The Sky Lodge entrance
WHERE TO STAY
Treasure Mountain Inn
Built in 1963, Treasure Mountain Inn has undergone major renovations to become one of the most premier condominium hotels on Main Street. There are a variety of rooms to fit the needs of everybody. Complete with full kitchens, underground parking and a secluded courtyard with hot tub. www.treasuremountaininn.com
Sky Lodge
Hollywood meets the mountains at the Sky Lodge in downtown Park City. The swanky, upscale lodge is one of a kind. If you're into boutique hotels and pampering, the Sky is for you. Rated number one on Trip Advisor, the Sky Lodge offers a restaurant, bar, full-service Amatsu Spa and rooftop lounge overlooking the mountains. www.theskylodge.com
Park City Peaks Hotel
Take in views of the surrounding mountains from the convenience of your own room. Located close to Main Street, Park City Peaks offers reasonable rates and plenty of amenities including a swim-in, swim-out heated pool, big outdoor hot tub and Swedish sauna. www.parkcitypeaks.com
The Peaks
WHERE TO EAT
Atticus Coffee, Books and Tea House
Located right on Main Street, Atticus is the perfect mountain town coffee shop. Complete with tons of teas, various treats, books, unique gifts, comfy couches and complimentary Wi-fi, Atticus is a little nook not to be missed. Named after the main character in "To Kill a Mocking Bird", the feel inside the shop is very old bookstore meets modern day.
Cobra Dogs (shown at above)
Cobra Dogs became a sensation at Mt. Hood some years ago, when they opened a stand in Government Camp. Cheap and amazing hot dogs after a long day on the hill? You can't ask for more.
Park City franchised Cobra Dogs and plopped one down on the mountain, right at the base of Three Kings Terrain Park. Stopping for a quick lunch on the hill has never been easier, or cheaper for that matter. Open daily from 11-9 p.m.
Yuki Arashi Sushi
A hot spot in Park City, Arashi Sushi offers delicious fish, tapas and salads. Arashi is open for lunch and dinner. With the addition of an upper level last year, there is plenty of room for big parties.
Bangkok Thai
Bangkok offers an array of Thai selections at a mid-level price. For the baller on the budget hit up the $10 all you can eat pad thai happy hour.
Maxwell's Pizza
Known for its East Coast flair, Maxwell's is as close to an Italian eatery as you'll find in Park City. Make it a family affair or a girl's night out, enjoy the ambiance and a glass of wine.
NIGHTLIFE
Corner Store
End your day on the hill apres style with $2 PBR's and live music. Located at the base of Park City Resort, the Corner Store has an outdoor patio to people watch and get a tan.
O'Shucks
Hang with the locals at O' Shucks tavern on Main Street. Play darts, pool, drink cheap beer and mingle at the little dive bar.
Downstairs (shown at left)
Featuring weekly live music and DJ's, Downstairs is a contemporary lounge bar cool enough for the locals and favored by tourists. From VIP bottle service, nightly drink specials and plenty of entertainment, Downstairs is a fun spot to dance and party. It is also part-owned by Danny and Chris Masterson.
No Name Saloon
With the tag line "Helping people forget their name since 1903" No Name Saloon and Grill wants you to have a good time. Whether you want to grab some grub, or just drink, No Name is a fun spot to check out. Cozy up by the fire or check out the rooftop bar if it's nice out.
Sage Kotsenburg / Rob Mathis photo
