One-Day Getaways
Photography: Don Weller
Short on time, but longing for a mini-escape? Take a day to travel to the not-so-distant worlds of lavish gardens, wild animals and spectacular caves. Here’s a sampling of some close-to-Park City adventures worth exploring on long summer days …
Tea and Tranquility in the Gardens
Enjoy a leisurely Sunday drive down the canyon and wander through Red Butte Gardens (300 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City). Arrange for a behind-the-blooms private tour (call 801.581.4747 for information), or wile the day away among the more than 1,500 acres of display gardens and hiking trails. Next, drop by the Tea Grotto (2030 South, 900 East, Salt Lake City) to experience a Japanese Tea Ceremony. You’ll be treated to a pot of Japanese green tea and a light bento box catered by the neighboring Tsunami restaurant. It’s a great way to learn about Japanese green teas and their flavors. Tea is offered on Sundays, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., by reservation only. Call 801.466.8255 for more information.
Roam With the Buffalo on Antelope Island
While buffalo are the most popular residents on this 28,000-acre island in the Great Salt Lake, deer and antelope can also be seen playing among the island’s hills and meadows. Bring a pair of binoculars and a bird guidebook—the island is a prime spot for bird watching. There are miles of hiking and biking trails as well as a great picnic spot on the grassy meadows of the island’s Fielding Garr Ranch House. For more information and directions, call 801.773.2941.
Cool Off in a Cave
Discovered in 1887 by Mormon settler Martin Hansen, The Timpanogos Cave National Monument is home to a series of three caverns filled with colorful and dazzling underground scenery. With a temperature inside the cave of a brisk 45 degrees, it’s a great way to cool off on a hot summer day. The cave is open mid-May through mid-October. Guided tours are available. On Saturdays, park rangers offer a children’s program that teaches kids about the natural history of the cave. Wear appropriate footwear—there is a short, but strenuous 1.5-mile hike to reach the cave entrance. Tickets must be purchased at the visitor center before hiking to the cave. Advance reservations are recommended. For directions and information, call 801.756.5238.
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