Summer Guide '10 -- Cake on the Grass
Photography: Courtesy of Deer Valley Resort
T he produce is fresh; the air, refreshing; the season cries for alfresco dining. Good thing Park City abounds with public picnic spots in peaceful settings with pristine mountain backdrops. Venture to these delightful off-the-beaten-trail picnic locales, all of which offer grand views to go with delectable nibbles in the outdoors.
THE SPOT: The magnificent 1,200 acres of wetlands at Swaner Nature Preserve is home to deer, elk, moose, fox, coyote, eagles and hawks, not to mention more than 80 other bird species. Panoramic views from the EcoCenter (1258 Center Drive in Newpark Town Center) may just take your breath away. THE FARE: Go organic at Whole Foods Market in Redstone (1748 W Redstone Center Drive). Try grilled turkey, brie and spinach panini from the deli counter, share a strawberry and feta salad or pick up ready-to-go potstickers or California rolls.
THE SPOT: Want birds’-eye views of Park City? All three mountain resorts operate lifts in the summer (rides cost $11–15/person). Ride up to the peak, find a secluded spot in the aspens and you’re good to go. THE FARE: At Deer Valley, order one of the fabulous gourmet picnic baskets (435.649.1000, 48 hours’ notice), complete with such delicacies as smoked salmon or chilled filet of beef. At The Canyons, grab a portable and delicious Chicken Caesar Wrap from the midmountain Red Pine Lodge, or call ahead and have a sack lunch made up (435.615.2888). At Park City Mountain Resort, stop by the Legacy Lodge (1310 Lowell Ave) for to-go items like the fresh mozzarella or blackened shrimp salad.
THE SPOT: Hit the Mcleod Creek Trail (off Old Ranch Road—park at Willow Creek Park) and mosey along this meandering route until you find one of the inviting benches nestled creekside. THE FARE: Hit the local Farmers’ Market at The Canyons Resort (very close by) on Wednesdays from noon to 6 p.m. and grab to-go items such as fresh fruit, baked goods, Rico’s tamales with fresh salsa or a loaf of bread from Volker’s Bakery (try the Dill & Cottage Cheese with Red Onion with summer tomatoes—perfection!).
THE SPOT: To get way out of town, drive up Guardsman Pass, 9,700 feet above Park City (access via Marsac Avenue behind Main Street). Majestic 360-degree views frame fields of wildflowers, evergreen groves and stands of aspen. THE FARE: Everyone loves the huge made-to-order sandwiches from Leger’s (435.649.5678 at 1400 Snow Creek Drive in town; 435.649.0072 at 1612 Ute Blvd. in Kimball Junction). Try the Kitchen Sink: turkey, roast beef, ham, four cheeses and all the trimmings. Save some time by calling your order in first.
PICNIC TIP: Please keep your dogs on a leash, and remember to pack out all of your trash!
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