Park City offers adventure and charm in every corner, but if you’re looking to venture beyond, the surrounding areas offer unique and exhilarating day trip experiences for the adventurous traveler. From rugged landscapes to fascinating geological wonders and vibrant towns, these excursions provide a perfect blend of thrill and discovery. Whether you’re a hiker, history buff, or simply seeking a change of scenery, these day trips promise to make your Park City adventure even more memorable. Here are some of the best options for those ready to explore beyond the city’s boundaries.
Antelope Island Wildlife and Scenic Beauty
Antelope Island, located in the Great Salt Lake, is a fantastic destination for those seeking both adventure and wildlife encounters. Just over an hour’s drive from Park City, this island is home to bison, antelope, mule deer, and a variety of bird species, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. The island offers multiple hiking trails that lead to stunning overlooks of the lake and surrounding mountains, providing panoramic views that shift with the changing light throughout the day. After a morning hike, visitors can take a refreshing dip in the lake, where the high salt content allows for effortless floating—a unique experience worth trying.
Bonneville Salt Flats a Photographer’s Dream
About two hours west of Park City lies the Bonneville Salt Flats, one of Utah’s most iconic and surreal landscapes. Known for its vast, flat expanse of white salt, this area offers an otherworldly experience that feels like stepping onto a different planet. Adventurous travelers can take stunning photos against this unique backdrop, where the sky and ground seem to blend into one. The salt flats are also famous for the Bonneville Speedway, where land-speed records have been set. Although driving on the flats is only permitted in designated areas, the experience of walking or driving on this flat, endless landscape is unforgettable.
Mirror Lake Scenic Byway a High-Alpine Escape
For a scenic, mountainous adventure, the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway offers a picturesque drive through the Uinta Mountains, just an hour from Park City. This route leads to high-alpine lakes, dense forests, and pristine mountain views that are perfect for hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying a picnic with a view. Mirror Lake, the highlight of the byway, reflects the surrounding peaks beautifully, creating a tranquil setting ideal for relaxation or photography. During summer, wildflowers add a splash of color to the landscape, while autumn brings a vibrant display of fall foliage. At higher elevations, cool mountain air provides a refreshing escape from warmer valley temperatures.
Fifth Water Hot Springs a Soothing Adventure
Located about an hour and a half from Park City, the Fifth Water Hot Springs (also known as Diamond Fork Hot Springs) is an adventurous day trip destination with a touch of relaxation. To reach these natural hot springs, visitors must hike a moderate 2.5-mile trail that follows a scenic creek surrounded by forested hills. Upon arrival, hikers are rewarded with multiple pools of naturally heated mineral water in varying temperatures. The stunning turquoise color of the pools against the surrounding landscape creates a magical atmosphere, making it a favorite among photographers and those seeking a unique and soothing experience in nature.
Goblin Valley State Park a Land of Stone “Goblins”
For a truly unique adventure, Goblin Valley State Park is worth the two-and-a-half-hour drive from Park City. This remote park is known for its otherworldly rock formations, often described as “goblins,” which were formed through centuries of erosion. The bizarre shapes and formations create a surreal playground for exploration, as visitors can freely wander among the stone “goblins” and towering hoodoos. Hiking trails and open spaces allow adventurers to experience the park at their own pace, discovering hidden corners and taking in the strange beauty of this geological wonder. Goblin Valley is also a designated Dark Sky Park, so for those who wish to extend their trip into the night, stargazing here is spectacular.
Provo River Rafting an Adrenaline-Pumping Adventure
For water lovers seeking a thrilling experience, a rafting trip down the Provo River offers an exciting way to explore Utah’s landscapes. Located less than an hour from Park City, the Provo River flows through scenic canyons and offers gentle rapids that are perfect for beginners and families. Rafting tours are available from spring to early fall, allowing visitors to enjoy the beautiful canyon views, spot local wildlife, and cool off in the crisp river waters. In autumn, the journey is particularly scenic, with vibrant fall foliage lining the riverbanks, creating a beautiful backdrop for your rafting adventure.
Take Your Park City Adventure Further
With so many unique day trips available from Park City, adventurous travelers can experience Utah’s diverse landscapes, fascinating geology, and rich wildlife. Each destination offers a distinctive experience, making every day an opportunity to explore something new and memorable. Ready to turn your Park City vacation into the ultimate adventure? Book our Park City vacation rentals and start planning your journey into Utah’s great outdoors.
