Just 25 miles or so west of Park City, the Salt Lake Valley is very well used to seeing hotter temperatures arrive and linger throughout the summer months. Temperatures up to and above 100*F, sure! Easy. Normal. However, it is a bit more of a rarity for Park City to see this kind of heat, especially this early on in the year, but we are finding that each spring that comes, this becomes more and mores the case. In Park City, there are many lovely pools to lounge by, but here is what we like to do when we not only want to escape the heat, but also escape the crowds.
JORDANELLE RESERVOIR BEACH
Ok, ok, this one might sound obvious, but we’re talking about a beach that has NOTHING to do with boats or boat ramps near the main marina of Jordanelle. We’re talking about going a different route to seek out a beach on the other side of the lake where pool floaties are welcome and bringing your own picnic is mandatory. Just a short drive from Park City, the easiest way to find it is simply input in Ross Creek Trailhead into whatever directional device you own. Once you reach Ross Creek Trailhead, instead of parking there continue on down the road until you see a parking lot by the water. Park here, and take the pathway that slithers around the lake until you find the perfect spot. Parking is $10 for the day, dogs are allowed, but must remain on leash while on the trail. Sit down, relax, and cool off! It’s our version of being at ‘the ocean’.
HIT THE TRAILS / GO UP!
When the heat gets HOT, sometimes the best way to escape it is to go UP. This might sound strange seeing as when I think of doing anything involving gaining altitude in the summer, it makes me think of being hot. BUT, you’d be surprised at how cool it can be once you get deeper into the trail system around town. First off, anywhere with higher altitude, it is always going to be cooler the higher you go, and secondly, the cool crisp aspens and pines will provide at least some shade relief. One of our favorite ways to truly escape the heat is to hit Mirror Lake Highway and up to the Uinta Mountains where the temperatures are always cooler and you are guaranteed to find a great little spot for a picnic.
MAKE SHADOW LAKE YOUR DESTINATION
If you’ve made it onto the trails are are feeling a bit more ambitious and are seeking a body of water to dip into that will have MUCH less people, head up to Shadow Lake - a small lake located at the base of Jupiter Peak. Learn more about the hike HERE. This is also a very rewarding mid-point on a mountain bike if pedaling is your jam.