The Ultimate Guide to Summit County, Utah: An Offbeat Traveler’s Take
Alright, so you’re planning a trip to Summit County, Utah? Solid choice. Whether you’re a powder-chasing ski bum, a leaf-peeping fall enthusiast, or just someone looking to eat your way through a mountain town (no shame in that game), you’re in for a good time. But let’s be real—any travel guide will tell you to hit up Park City’s ski resorts or take a scenic drive on Mirror Lake Highway. And while those are great, I’m here to give you a mix of classics and lesser-known gems so you can actually feel like you discovered something.
Table of Contents
- First Things First: Park City, The Crown Jewel
- Getting Off the Beaten Path
- Summer & Fall Adventures
- Where to Eat: The Real Reason We Travel
- A Few More Random But Useful Tips
First Things First: Park City, The Crown Jewel
You can’t talk about Summit County without talking about Park City, because it’s basically the Beyoncé of Utah’s mountain towns—famous, glamorous, and slightly out of your league. But don’t let that stop you from diving in.
Skiing & Snowboarding
If you’re visiting in the winter, skiing is a must. Park City Mountain Resort and Deer Valley Resort are the big names, with terrain for everyone from “I just learned how to put my boots on” to “I could probably compete in the X Games if I tried hard enough.”
Not into skiing? No worries. Try tubing at Woodward Park City. It’s essentially sledding on steroids, and you don’t even have to walk back up the hill (which is the real dream).
Main Street Shenanigans
Post-skiing, Main Street is where the action is. It’s lined with art galleries, boutique shops, and restaurants that serve everything from bison burgers to high-end sushi.
Hot tip: If you’re into whiskey, do yourself a favor and check out High West Distillery, Utah’s first legal distillery since Prohibition. Even if you don’t drink, the vibe alone is worth it.
Getting Off the Beaten Path
Maybe you’re the kind of traveler who likes to go beyond the usual tourist trail. I respect that. Here are some low-key but incredible spots in Summit County that deserve a place on your itinerary.
Wanship: The Tiny Town With Big Flavor
Ever heard of Wanship? No? That’s fine—most people haven’t. But it’s home to Blue Sky Ranch, an eco-luxury retreat with next-level views and an on-site distillery (yes, more whiskey, you’re welcome). If you want to feel like you’re in a movie about rugged cowboys with surprisingly good taste, book a horseback ride or a spa day here.
Kamas: Gateway to the Uinta Mountains
If you need a break from the “scene” in Park City, Kamas is a short drive away and full of outdoor adventure.
- Mirror Lake Highway: If you love scenic drives, this is your jackpot. It’s an alpine wonderland with lakes, trails, and more pine trees than you can count.
- Provo River Falls: A ridiculously pretty waterfall that requires zero effort to see (you can park practically next to it, which is my kind of hike).
- Samak Smokehouse & Country Store: Stock up on smoked jerky and cheese before heading into the wilderness. Even if you don’t think you’re a jerky person, this place will change your mind.
Summer & Fall Adventures
A lot of people think Utah is just a winter destination, but summer and fall in Summit County? Unreal. Here’s what you don’t want to miss:
Hiking That Doesn’t Feel Like A Death March
- Bloods Lake: A moderate hike with a gorgeous alpine lake at the top. It’s family-friendly but not too easy, so you’ll still feel accomplished.
- Bald Mountain: Short but steep, with a 360-degree view from the summit. Worth every leg-burning step.
Epic Biking (For All Skill Levels)
- Park City Mountain’s Trail System: If you like mountain biking, this place is a dream. If you don’t like mountain biking, rent an e-bike and pretend you do.
- Historic Union Pacific Rail Trail: Flat, scenic, and perfect for a chill ride without too much exertion.
Where to Eat: The Real Reason We Travel
I’ll be honest—there’s no shortage of good food in Summit County, but here are a few standouts:
- Five5eeds (Park City): Aussie-inspired brunch spot with legendary pancakes and a solid flat white.
- High West Distillery (Wanship): Mentioned it before, but seriously, the food here is just as good as the drinks.
- No Worries Café (Summit Park): Hidden gem breakfast spot. Order the huevos rancheros. Just trust me.
- The Notch (Samak): Classic mountain tavern with burgers, beer, and a view. Bonus: live music on weekends.
A Few More Random But Useful Tips
- Altitude is real. Summit County is high up, so drink water like it’s your job, or you’ll end up with a headache and regret.
- The sun is no joke. Even in winter, you will burn. Lather up with sunscreen unless you want to leave looking like a tomato.
- Traffic can be a buzzkill. If you’re visiting during Sundance or a holiday weekend, expect congestion. Plan accordingly.
- Embrace the weird liquor laws. Utah has some quirky booze rules, but nothing that will actually ruin your fun. Just know you’ll need to order food if you’re getting a drink at certain places.
Final Thoughts
Summit County is one of those places that checks all the boxes: stunning scenery, great food, endless outdoor activities, and just enough quirkiness to keep things interesting. Whether you’re coming for ski season, summer hikes, or just to eat your way through town (again, zero judgment), you’ll find plenty to love.
And who knows? Maybe after a few days breathing in that crisp mountain air, you’ll start wondering if you should just move here. (Spoiler: A lot of people do.)
So, go ahead—book that trip. Summit County is waiting.
