Group 2 6 min Read10 Things to Do in Park City this Summer Park City may be known for its stunning ski slopes and dazzling winter scenery, but it is truly a year-round outdoor paradise. As the temperatures rise and the snow melts, ushering in the warm summer months, you can find a whole list of alpine activities to try out, specifically at Jordanelle Reservoir and State Park. Our local staff know all the best places to have some summer fun, and we’ve put together a complete list of activities and events that will make your Park City vacation a memorable one. With our guide and our comfy vacation rentals as a home base, you’re sure to have the best summer getaway in the mountains of Utah! 1. Go Paddleboarding Stand up paddle boarding is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, and Park City has some excellent paddle boarding spots for both beginners and experienced paddlers. Jordanelle State Park is one of the best spots in the area and even hosts the annual Park City SUP Festival each July. This year the event will take place on July 5, 2025 at the Sand Pavilion, and will feature SUP races for all ages, plus live music and vendors. 2. Plan a Beach Day Who needs to travel to the coast when you can have an epic beach day in the mountains? Summer in Park City means it’s time for a refreshing dip in the cool waters of a high-altitude lake. The Jordanelle Reservoir is the perfect spot for a family outing, providing a sandy beach area with volleyball courts, picnic pavilions, a playground, and more. Claim your spot on the beach and get ready for a day of fun under the Utah sunshine. 3. Compete in an Epic Mountain Adventure Are you an athlete looking for your next challenge? There are numerous opportunities to take part in challenging races in Park City this summer. Runners will have the chance to compete in challenging trail runs throughout the summer season as part of the Park City Trail Series. Each month, there’s a new challenge to conquer, with a 5K run in June, a 10K run in July, and a half marathon in August. Each course will take you down routes with a combination of single track double track, and dirt roads as you climb and ascend through the beautiful Park City scenery. Also taking place in June is the Jordanelle Triathlon for those athletes trained in running, swimming, and biking. This epic event has been named one of Triathlete Magazine’s Top 100 Races and is Utah’s longest-running triathlon. 4. Get Out on the Water Water sports are one of the best ways to elevate your summer activities in Park City, and Jordanelle State Park provides plenty of ways to get out on the water for some fun. For an exciting day with the whole family, you can rent a speed boat for water skiing or wake surfing or a pontoon boat for a leisurely day on the water. There’s also the option to rent kayaks for a peaceful paddle around the lake while taking in the sights. 5. Cast a Line and See What You Catch Avid fisherman and beginners alike will find plenty of great places to cast a line in Park City. If you want to get away from some of the activity at Jordanelle Reservoir and opt for a more solitary fishing experience, you can try your luck at both the Provo and Weber Rivers. Both of these spots are home to abundant trout, as well as other fish. The Provo River specifically is known for its high number or large fish per mile, making it a great place to catch a trophy fish to show off. 6. Explore Hiking Trails Beyond water activities, there’s also plenty of other ways to explore the outdoors in Park City. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the mountains on foot, as there are numerous trails suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers. For a beginner-friendly option, we suggest Lake Mary Trail, which is just over two miles and takes you to a subalpine lake above Brighton Ski Resort. For a more challenging route, you can try hiking to Desolation Lake, which is a nearly 8 mile trek with almost 2,000 feet of elevation gain – it’s sure to get your heart-pumping and provide stunning views along the way. 7. View Wildlife The mountain setting of Park City makes it an excellent environment to spot numerous kinds of wildlife. If you’re hoping to see elk or moose, you may want to pick a hike in the area of the Big Cottonwood Canyon, as this area is known for being home to both. Just be sure to keep a safe distance from wildlife and enjoy their beauty from afar. If you’re excited to see diverse birdlife, you may want to choose to stay close to the waters of Jordanelle. There is a large population of all types of birds, including bald eagles, hummingbirds, and hawks, in this area, especially near Rock Cliff 8. Pack a Lunch and Enjoy a Picnic by the Water Enjoy a meal surrounded by the beauty of the outdoors – grab some sandwiches and pack a cooler to enjoy lunch at Jordanelle State Park. You can choose to bring a blanket and picnic on the beach or snag one of the many picnic tables around the area. You’ll get to take in the fresh mountain air and the beautiful scenery as you dine al fresco. It’s just another way to enjoy the great outdoors during your stay in Park City. 9. Explore Backcountry Trails Discover your adventurous spirit and explore the wilderness surrounding Park City on a mountain bike or ATV. There are several rental shops where you can rent equipment and venture out on your own or book a tour with a local guide. If you’re looking to get some exercise in the great outdoors, mountain biking can provide a fun and exhilarating experience. For those looking to go fast, cross creeks, and see as much as possible, a thrilling ATV experience may be the best choice for you. Either way, you’ll have the chance to see the beauty of Utah up close and personal. 10. Learn about the Local Ecosystem at Rock Cliff Nature Center For families with kids, it’s always a good idea to mix in some hands-on learning experiences during your vacation. The Rock Cliff Nature Center provides a fun environment that teaches about the wildlife, plants, animals, and ecosystem of Jordanelle. In addition, there are short nature trails around the center where kids can get out and explore the very thing they just learned about. There’s a boardwalk that guides you through upland sage and wetland areas as well as a short trail to Rock Cliff. You can also hike, bike, or go horseback riding around part or all of the 22-mile Perimeter Trail. Plan Your Summer Trip to Park City Exciting adventures are waiting for you this summer in Park City, and we have the perfect place for you to stay during your vacation. Our luxury rentals provide a comfy spot to land after a day of fun exploring. We have homes to make your summer getaway one to remember and to meet the needs of every traveler, including homes with lake access, homes for large groups, and homes with pool access. Start planning now for an epic mountain adventure – booking early means the best rates and dibs on the best homes! Sign up for emails Trip inspiration, special offers, and vacation planning tips. Name(Required) First Last Email By submitting this form, I agree to SkyRun’s Privacy Policy Δ
