Ultimate Guide to Hiking in Park City, Utah (With Local Tips & Moose Warnings!)
If you’ve ever wanted to hike through forests that look like they were ripped out of a Bob Ross painting, spot a moose (from a safe distance, please), and earn your post-hike burrito like a champ, welcome to Park City, Utah. As someone who’s scrambled up more slopes than I care to count—and once got chased by a chipmunk I mistook for a rattlesnake—I’m here to give you the lowdown on where to hike, what to pack, and why you’ll fall in love with this mountain town.
Let’s dive in, trail shoes first.
So, Why Hike in Park City?
Here’s the deal: Park City isn’t just a winter wonderland with fancy ski lifts and après-ski hot chocolate. Come summer and fall, the trails explode into a hiker’s paradise. Wildflowers bloom like they’re showing off, the air smells like pine and possibility, and you’re never more than 10 minutes from a trailhead or a taco truck. It’s glorious.
Whether you’re hiking with toddlers, teenagers, dogs, or your grumpy Uncle Bob who thinks walking is a waste of time—Park City has a trail that’ll make everyone happy.
The Best Hiking Trails in Park City (Tried, Tested, and Slightly Sweaty)
1. McPolin Farm Nature Trail – Easy, Peaceful, and Perfect for Beginners
If you’re just warming up your hiking legs—or you want something your grandma, toddler, and golden retriever can all enjoy—start here. The trail loops gently through meadows and around the iconic white barn that’s basically Park City’s favorite photo op.
Distance: 1.5 miles (loop)
Vibe: Low effort, high reward
Bonus: Wildflowers in spring and fall colors that’ll make your camera cry
2. Rob’s Trail – Moderate with a Side of Moose
This one’s a local favorite, and for good reason. It’s got a nice uphill burn, plenty of shade, and sweeping views over Canyons Resort. Plus, I once saw a moose here who clearly thought I was trespassing on his trail. (I apologized. He did not care.)
Distance: 4.8 miles round trip
Level: Intermediate
Fun Fact: Great for dogs, but keep them leashed unless they know moose diplomacy
3. Iron Mountain Trail – Leg Day Meets Jaw-Dropping Views
This one will make your thighs question your life choices, but it’s so worth it. The climb is steady, the views are epic, and the selfies at the top? Chef’s kiss.
Distance: 5.5 miles
Climb: About 1,000 ft gain
Trail Mood: “I’m sweating but smiling”
Wasatch Crest Trail – All the Views, All the Feels
This trail is like a scenic roller coaster—with no seatbelt and lots of fresh air. It’s long, it’s high up, and the ridgeline views are out of this world. You’ll feel like you’re walking on top of Utah (because, kinda, you are).
Distance: 12+ miles depending on your route
Best For: Seasoned hikers or mountain bikers
Season: Summer to early fall (before the snow says “hello again”)
Bloods Lake via Guardsman Pass – Short, Sweet, and Swim-Worthy
Want a quick hike that ends with a cool lake dip? Bloods Lake is your jam. It’s a relatively easy trail that delivers big time on the beauty. And yes, I’ve belly-flopped into that lake more than once. It never gets old (just cold).
Distance: 2.8 miles round trip
Pro Tip: Bring a towel… or air dry while sunbathing on a rock like a lizard
Dog Rating: 10/10 good boys love this place
Hidden Gem Trails (Shhh, Don’t Tell Everyone)
Dawn’s Trail
Peaceful, shaded, and way less crowded than some of the busier trails. Great for a morning hike before the coffee hits.
Armstrong Trail
Forest vibes, great birdwatching, and connects to bigger loops if you’re feeling ambitious. Hike it counter-clockwise for bonus solitude.
Local Hack: Park near Silver Star Café and treat yourself to pancakes after
What to Pack (A.K.A. Things I’ve Forgotten Before)
- Water – The altitude’s sneaky, friends. Hydrate like a cactus.
- Snacks – Granola bars, trail mix, or gummy bears (yes, they count)
- Layers – Mornings are cool, afternoons sizzle
- Sunscreen & Hat – The sun is not playing around at 8,000 feet
- Good shoes – Blisters are not a fun souvenir
Bonus tip: download offline maps. Cell service disappears faster than your motivation on a steep switchback.
Wildlife Encounters (and How Not to Panic)
- Moose: Big, beautiful, and best admired from afar. Don’t approach. Seriously.
- Deer: Chill. Cute. Basically Park City’s unofficial mascots.
- Bears: Very rare, but if you go deep into the backcountry, bring bear spray.
- Squirrels: Might steal your snacks. Don’t negotiate.
And always—leave no trace. Take only photos, leave only footprints, and maybe a few awkward tan lines.
Hiking with Kids (and Dogs Who Think They’re Kids)
Park City is super family- and dog-friendly. Just make sure your trail choice matches everyone’s ability (and energy level after breakfast).
Best Trails for Kids: McPolin Farm, Swaner Preserve
Best Dog Spots: Rob’s Trail, Run-A-Muk Dog Trail, Bloods Lake
Parent Pro Tip: Pack gummy worms = instant morale boost
Post-Hike Grub Spots (Because You Earned It)
- Five5eeds – Brunch dreams come true. Avocado toast + espresso = magic
- Wasatch Brew Pub – Views + beer. Enough said
- Harvest – Clean eats for when you feel like pretending you’re healthy
Where to Stay (So You’re Trailhead-Adjacent)
- Silver Star Lodging – Trails start right outside your door
- Hotel Park City – Fancy, comfy, and close to town
- Camping – Jordanelle State Park has great spots for starry nights
Words from a Slightly Dirt-Covered Trail Veteran
- Start early (trust me—sunrise hikes are chef’s kiss)
- Bring more water than you think you need (yes, even if you’re “just going a couple miles”)
- Smile at fellow hikers. We’re all just trying to outwalk our worries
- And don’t forget… sometimes getting a little lost leads to the best views
Final Thoughts: The Mountains Are Calling (and They Brought Snacks)
Park City isn’t just a ski town—it’s a hiking lover’s paradise wrapped in pine trees and dusted with adventure. From short strolls to all-day treks, you’ll find trails that speak to your soul and challenge your calves.
So go ahead, lace up those boots, grab your water bottle (yes, now), and get out there. I’ll see you on the trail—probably out of breath and grinning like a goof.
