The Departure: Park City
Up in the northern part of Utah, Park City has been one of America’s top skiing destinations for years. But when it’s the middle of summer and snowy slopes are nowhere to be found, that’s when the rest of this city’s great attributes have a chance to shine. Condé Nast Traveler just rated Park City one of the friendliest cities in the world, so before the season ends, get out there with the knowledge that the people are just as welcoming as the place itself.
There’s no better way to start a day out west than with a morning hike. Some of the most expansive and visually staggering trails can be found at Deer Valley, a resort whose surrounding mountains played host to the moguls and alpine slalom events of the 2002 Winter Olympics. The lush trails span for miles in all directions, and their gorgeous panoramas of the Wasatch and Uinta mountain ranges make this a must-do for any traveler.
With its almost 10,000 acres of land, Stillman Ranch is another beautiful location to visit for a more level but no less scenic encounter outdoors. The main draws here are horseback riding, fly fishing, and wagon rides through the trails that conclude with a communal dinner under the blue sky. Pick one, or do all three: the experience will be amazing regardless.
Lastly, don’t miss seeing the more urban downtown area. The Sundance Film Festival takes place here annually, but besides that claim to fame, there are endless other reasons to make the trek there. Cuisines of all varieties abound, from the classically Western restaurant Purple Sage to the Flying Sumo sushi bar, and colorful art galleries line the main road. Some say there’s no place like home, but there’s also no place like Park City.
The perfect bag to bring along? Our Sling Backpack, which functions just as well in the mountains as it does in tote form down on the streets.
All photos © the Park City Museum and Meredith Gorski.
Note: this article was originally published in August 2016 and was updated in June 2017.