This story is found in the summer 2019 edition of Park City Adventure Guide.
Living in Park City makes it easy to get outdoors for a walk, hike or bike ride. It seems there’s a trail for everyone’s skills and needs anywhere. But it’s a lot of effort to build and maintain these trails, a task that the Mountain Trails Foundation has been accomplishing since 1992. It takes lots of staff, volunteers, mapping, signage, equipment, and funding to create a year-round, seamless trail system. By working closely with private and public landowners, though, today there are over 400 miles of non-motorized trails just waiting for you. It’s one of the best trail systems in the nation.
One unique byway is the Union Pacific Rail Trail, which follows the old railroad grade from Park City to the town of Echo, nearly 28 miles away. Opened to the public as a State Park in 1992, the Rail Trail starts at 6,900 feet in elevation at Park City and drops to 5,280 feet at the eastern end. The Rail Trail is paved for the 3 miles east of Park City, but afterwards it’s smooth and wide road-base. There are a number of trailheads, and it will take you through wetlands, canyons, and small towns, all along the peaceful Weber River, Echo Lake and across railroad tracks. It’s suitable for biking, walking, running, horseback riding and fishing.
Many of our area trails are open to mountain bikers and hikers. Some are reserved for one type of use to reduce conflict and improve safety, so there are hiking only, uphill bike only, dog restricted and bike only trails. Trail etiquette gives people on horseback the right of way, followed by hikers and then mountain bikers. With caution and good trail etiquette, every- one mostly gets along just fine. Remember, dogs must be leashed and under control on all trails, but are prohibited at Deer Valley Resort. Before you head out, download the Mountain Trails map or buy a paper copy; it’ll help you find your way around.
For more information and maps visit Mountaintrails.org and BasinRecreation.org.
For more stories from this edition, visit the Adventure Guide special section.