Take a Hike
1. Lost Prospector: A mostly flat, easy singletrack loop, the 4.5-mile hike begins on Aerie Drive, just off of Deer Valley Drive, and then finishes up on the Rail Trail, offering views of Park Meadows, Old Town, Prospector and the Uinta Mountains.
2. Mormon Trail: Just past the Jeremy Ranch Golf Course, tall pines and aspens shade the 9.2-mile, out-and-back trail as it winds through streambeds, ponds, snowfields and logs. Dogs love this one because of the water all around.
3. Spiro Trail: A steady climb of switchbacks and aspens that eventually winds down around the backside of Park City Mountain Resort, connects with the Power Line Trail, and moseys up to Shadow Lake at the base of Jupiter chairlift. To get there, turn right onto Three Kings Drive, park, then hike left at Crescent Drive.
4. Moose Hollow Trails: The steep pitch, late spring mud and tight switchbacks make these trails stemming from the gate at Jeremy Ranch’s Moose Hollow development better for hikers than bikers. Plenty of shady spots, wildflowers and views of Snyderville Basin. Keep your pets close. It’s not called “Moose Hollow” by accident.
5. Silver Lake Trail: Just east of Deer Valley’s Royal Street Café in Silver Lake Village, the hikers-only path takes you to the top of Bald Mountain among aspens, pines and wildflowers.
CANINE COURTESY
Unlike many trails closer to Salt Lake City, as of now, well-behaved dogs are still welcome on Park City trails. The more conscientious we are as dog owners, the longer our pooches will have access to the paths. A few notes on canine trail etiquette so you don’t end up in the dog house:
• Those hiking without canine companions will expect you to keep your pets leashed. That way, our pups won’t chase critters, bikers or other dogs. When you see others on the trail, please leash your dog until they pass.
• Visible brown doggy plops on our trails are downright rude. Some trailheads sport poopbag stations, but not all, so bring your own plastic bags and please pick up after your pet. If you find yourself without any plastic at hand, at the very least, kick your doggie’s doo off the trail.
• Don’t forget to bring extra water for your best friend (and yourself).
• Right of way: Bikers get the right of way when it comes to hikers, kids and dogs. A simple step off the trail will allow bikers to pass quickly.
HIKES WITH HAL
They happen as regularly as our aspen leaves turn green: Hikes through History with Hal. Each summer, Hal Compton, research historian for the Park City Historical Society, gathers up those with a yen for the past and hikes them up memory lane. Usually held one Saturday each month in July, August and September, Hal’s tours visit places like the Silver King Mine and the California Comstock Mill. You’ll enjoy a fair bit of exercise and fascinating tales from Park City’s past. To participate, join the Historical Society online for $25. www.parkcityhistory.org.
Your comments may be edited for brevity and foul language.