Author: Tristan Barta

For those who crave outdoor activities, Kimball Junction is a haven of natural beauty and adventure. Explore the extensive network of nearby trails for a scenic hike or exhilarating bike ride, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. For a more leisurely outing, take a relaxing walk along the scenic Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter, where you can enjoy the tranquility of nature and spot local wildlife. Even better, it is only a 3-minute walk from Newpark Resort! 

The natural splendor of Kimball Junction provides the perfect backdrop for an adventurous day out, whether you’re looking to challenge yourself with a vigorous hike or simply unwind in the peaceful outdoors. Embrace the opportunity to connect with nature and experience the great outdoors in this picturesque Utah destination.

Enjoy stress-free, car-free travel with free public transit, including electric buses and shuttles, extensive e-bike rentals, and pedestrian-friendly pathways. Getting around Park City and Kimball Junction without a car is easy, sustainable, and a great way to help keep the streets and air free of congestion. Park City’s local bus service is free of charge! Easily explore attractions, dining, and shopping while reducing your environmental impact.

8 Destinations To Experience While Visiting Summit County

• Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter: While not a historical walk in the traditional sense, the Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter offers a unique perspective on the Park City area’s environmental and developmental history. Even better – it is neighbors to Newpark Resort, only a three-minute walk from your room to the preserve. The Preserve spans 1,200 acres and includes a LEED Platinum-certified building with interactive exhibits. Historically, the area was traversed by the Kimball Brothers stage line and later became significant for its environmental conservation efforts. The Preserve offers guided walks where visitors can learn about the local ecology and the historical use of the land, providing insights into how the area has been shaped by both human and natural history.
• Park City Museum: Located on Main Street, the museum is housed in the city’s original basement jail. It features interactive exhibits about the town’s mining history, the Great Fire, and the transition to a ski resort. Admission includes a self-guided walking tour of the historic district. It is conveniently open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is just a 15-minute drive from Newpark.
• Guided Summer Walking Tours by Park City Museum: These tours offer insights into the area’s indigenous peoples, the settling of the Mormons, and Park City’s evolution from a mining to a ski resort town. The tour covers the historic district, buildings, and notable figures. The tours start at the Park City Museum, where you’ll see interactive exhibits about the town’s mining history, the great fire, and the transition to a ski resort. The walking tours are offered Monday through Friday, June 24th through August 30 at 2 p.m. and are included in Park City Museum admission.
• High West Distillery: Offering a unique blend of history and modernity. Located in Old Town Park City, visitors can tour the distillery to learn about the history of distilling in the region and enjoy tastings of their award-winning spirits. The distillery is housed in a renovated livery stable and garage, adding a rustic historical charm to the experience. You can also tour The Saloon (or stop and enjoy a cocktail). The High West Saloon is the world’s first and only ski-in gastro-distillery. Tours are available Thursday – Sunda, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm. The tours start on the hour, every hour. Located a short 15-minute drive from Kimball Junction and Newpark Resort.
• Glenwood Cemetery: This historic cemetery, established in 1885, offers a quiet and reflective walking experience. Many of Park City’s early settlers and miners are buried here. The cemetery is unique because it reflects the town’s diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds during the mining era, with separate sections for different groups. It provides a poignant insight into the harsh realities and challenges faced by the early inhabitants of Park City. Located within a 12-minute drive of Kimball Junction.
• Park City Ghost Tours: Experience the spookier side of Park City with a ghost tour that takes you through historic Main Street at night. The tour shares tales of the town’s haunted past and paranormal activity. Tours are at 8 pm every night. A reservation is required 24 hours in advance; if it is less than 24 hours, call to see if there is a tour already scheduled.
• Historic Hiking Tours by White Pine Touring: These private tours are customized to your interests and can include a historic hike that explores the trails once used by miners. You’ll gain historical insights into Park City’s past as a silver mining town. The route takes you through Daly Canyon and concludes at the impressive remains of the Silver King Mine. This intermediate hike lasts about three hours, providing a chance to stretch your legs and learn about Park City’s rich history while enjoying the fresh air. This private tour must be booked in advance, and a reservation is required.
• Utah Olympic Park: Remember to visit the site of the 2002 Winter Olympics, which includes the Alf Engen Ski Museum and the Eccles Salt Lake 2002 Olympic Winter Games Museum. The park stands as a testament to Park City’s transformation into a premier winter sports destination. The venue and museums are open daily from 9 am to 6 pm. The Utah Olympic Park is conveniently located just a six-minute drive from Newpark Resort.