| From heaping scoops of gelato to shady forest trails and underground escapes, summer in the Wasatch Back is all about finding your favorite way to chill. Whether you're craving a milkshake, a wildflower-studded hike, or an icy glide across the rink, we've rounded up the best ways to beat the heat and make the most of these sunny days. |
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| Nothing beats a cool treat on a warm summer day! We're partial to ice cream, and thankfully we have a lot of great options for grabbing a cone or milkshake. See below for a few of our favorites. |
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JAVA COW COFFEE & ICE CREAM
402 Main St | Park City
Java Cow Coffee & Ice Cream is a quirky, family-owned gem on Park City’s Historic Main Street, known for its homemade ice cream, fresh pastries, and espresso drinks. With whimsical cow-themed decor and even a Banksy mural on the wall, it’s a fun stop for breakfast, lunch, or a sweet treat. Everything is made in-house with high-quality ingredients, including vegan options and locally roasted coffee. |
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MACK'S FINEST GELATO
1890 Bonanza Dr #117 | Park City
Nestled in Prospector Park at 1890 Bonanza Dr, Mack’s Finest Gelato is a small‑batch gelateria crafted by Mack Tilling, who brings authentic techniques learned from Italy’s gelato maestros. Expect a rotating lineup of inventive, seasonal flavors made with premium ingredients like pistachios from Bronte and mango from Peru—and watch the gelato being made behind a glass wall.
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HI MOUNTAIN BURGER
40 N Main St | Kamas
Hi‑Mountain Burger is a warm, retro‑diner‑style restaurant in Kamas at 40 N Main St, offering locally ground lean beef burgers (about ⅓ lb) cooked fresh daily, plus nostalgic shakes like the raspberry‑pretzel. With a welcoming atmosphere and a standout “Drug‑store diner” vibe, it’s a Summit County mainstay. |
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UINTA SODA SHACK
10 East Center St | Kamas
The Shack is the home of Uinta Soda Company and Huli Boys Shave Ice. This charming trailer, located at the mouth of the scenic Mirror Lake Highway, serves up mixed sodas, authentic Hawaiian shave ice, and a variety of tasty treats. |
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DAIRY KEEN
199 S Main St | Heber City
Beat the summer heat with a legendary shake or sundae from Dairy Keen – Home of the Train! A local favorite since 1968, this nostalgic spot is famous for its milkshakes, soft-serve cones, and playful train-themed dining room. With a full menu of burgers, salads, and kid-friendly meals, it's no wonder Dairy Keen has earned the “Best of State” award every year since 2003! |
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HEBER VALLEY ARTISAN
CHEESE & MILK
920 River Road | Midway
While they may be most famous for their award-winning cheese, don't sleep on this spot if you are craving some ice cream on a warm summer afternoon. They offer an assortment of offerings from Aggie Ice Cream, some of the finest ice cream in northern Utah. |
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| Looking to beat the summertime heat? There are lots of options here in the Wasatch Back, from splashy destinations to underground escapes. |
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SUMMER SPLASH GUIDE
We have an abundance of rivers, streams, reservoirs and waterparks here in Park City and the Wasatch Back—perfect for getting out to enjoy some splashy summertime fun! Check out our comprehensive list of options in our Summer Splash Guide, linked above. |
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CAVERN COOL DOWN
Timpanogos Cave | American Fork
What better way to beat the heat than by heading underground at Timpanogos Cave National Monument? This is one of the Wasatch Back's greatest natural wonders, and summer is the perfect time to cool off with a visit to these spectacular caverns. |
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UNDERGROUND REFRESHMENT
Head downstairs at one of these underground establishments to cool off with a tasty beverage or two.
Library Lounge at Fletcher's | Park City
Library Lounge is nestled in the basement of Fletcher’s on Main Street—ideal for sipping craft cocktails in an intimate, stylish setting. With signature drinks, small bites, and nights featuring trivia or DJs, it's the perfect spot to unwind after a summer day! |
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Old Town Cellars | Park City
Old Town Cellars is a relaxed wine bar on Main Street in Park City, perfect for cooling off with a glass of wine after a summer hike or stroll. Enjoy great blends in a cozy space with mountain-town charm.
Hidden Ace | Mayflower
Hidden Ace is a stylish underground bar at the Grand Hyatt Deer Valley— the perfect spot to unwind on a summer evening with craft cocktails, small bites, and live music in a unique gold mine-inspired setting. |
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PARK CITY ICE ARENA
600 Gillmor Way | Park City
The Park City Ice Arena is a year‑round indoor facility featuring an Olympic-size sheet that welcomes all—from casual open skate sessions and private lessons to youth hockey camps and league games. It’s a great summertime destination to cool off, learn new skating skills, host birthday parties, and enjoy a fun indoor escape from the sun. Check out the schedule! |
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| One of the great spectacles of summertime here in the Wasatch Back is the seasonal emergence of wildflowers across our mountains and meadows. These wildflowers offer an explosion of colors throughout the summer, varying across elevations and aspects. See below for a few recommended trails for viewing the extravaganza of blooms. |
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| ARMSTRONG TRAIL | A local favorite for early-season blooms, Armstrong Trail winds gently through aspens and shady pine groves, offering a vibrant display of wildflowers along a peaceful, well-maintained path. Bonus: Silver Star Cafe is close to the start of the trail, perfect for a quick bite before or after your hike. Armstrong Trail connects with Dawn's Trail, making for a great wildflower loop. |
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| DAWN'S TRAIL | This moderate trail is a quieter gem near Park City Mountain Resort, where you’ll weave through shady stands and sunlit slopes sprinkled with wildflowers. It’s a great early-morning or late-afternoon hike with plenty of visual rewards. |
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TREASURE HILL | Just above Old Town Park City, Treasure Hill combines historical charm with bursts of bloom. Hike through remnants of mining history while enjoying a colorful mix of native flora, including bluebells, paintbrush, and columbine. |
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Check out AllTrails 10 BEST WILDFLOWER TRAILS in the Park CIty area to get the best-of list of beautiful, flower-filled hikes. And don't forget to review Visit Utah's primer for Utah Wildflowers - it will help you get ready to know the difference between Columbine, Yarrow, Bluebells, and more. |
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| Another fantastic way to enjoy our local mountains during the summertime is by taking a hike into some of our forested hills and dales. The following forays into our shady groves will allow you to enjoy the outdoors while providing respite from the harsh summer sun. The perfect recipe for cooling down with a "forest bath." |
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ROB'S TRAIL
This gently ascending trail in the Sun Peak area is beloved for its sweeping views and shaded switchbacks. Winding through stands of aspens and evergreens, Rob’s Trail offers a tranquil escape with dappled light and mountain breezes—a perfect dose of peace. |
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McCLEOD CREEK TRAIL
Following a meandering creek through town and into quiet groves, this flat, easy trail is ideal for a midday stroll or bike ride. Shaded paths, the sound of water, and occasional deer sightings make it feel worlds away from the bustle of Park City. |
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BLOODS LAKE
Though popular, this high-alpine trail never loses its magic. The short but rewarding hike leads to a serene mountain lake ringed by tall pines and dramatic ridgelines. Dip your toes in the cold water, or find a quiet spot to rest in the trees. |
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| Looking for more suggestions for a shady hike? Check out this list of the Best Forest Trails in the Park City area from AllTrails. |
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| Equestrian enthusiasts have plenty of options during the summertime to get out and explore our hills and mountains. Whether you are looking to ride in Park City or head into the Uintas, one of these local outfitters can cater to your needs and ability level. |
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BOULDER MOUNTAIN RANCH
Located at Deer Valley Resort, Boulder Mountain Ranch offers scenic rides through alpine meadows and aspen groves. With friendly guides and well-trained horses, it’s a great option for both first-timers and seasoned riders.
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KB HORSES
For a truly personalized experience, KB Horses provides private and small-group rides in the Heber Valley. They’re known for pairing riders with the perfect horse and crafting scenic routes through lush landscapes—perfect for building confidence and connection with horses.
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NORTH FORTY
This family-owned operation near Kamas offers trail rides with a rustic, down-home vibe. Whether you’re saddling up for a sunset ride or a longer excursion into the Uintas, North Forty delivers memorable mountain views and warm Western hospitality.
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RED PINE ADVENTURES
Conveniently located near Canyons Village, Red Pine Adventures takes riders into the heart of the Wasatch for unforgettable horseback adventures. Their guided tours are ideal for spotting wildlife, soaking in vistas, and making the most of your time in the saddle.
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WIND IN YOUR HAIR
True to its name, Wind In Your Hair offers carefree rides in the Wanship area through high-mountain meadows and shaded forests, with a focus on safety and joy. Great for kids and families, their tours are equal parts peaceful and playful.
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WILD HEART SANCTUARY
More than just a pasture, Wild Heart Sanctuary is a refuge for wild mustangs rescued from BLM roundups. By donating, you support a compassionate local mission to protect these majestic animals and preserve their untamed spirit in the heart of Park City.
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Whether you're chasing waterfalls, cooling off underground, or savoring a double scoop in the sun, there's no shortage of ways to make the most of summer here in the Wasatch Back. We hope this guide helps you slow down, explore more, and soak in the season one beautiful moment at a time.
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Keep an eye out for our
4th of JULY NEWSLETTER
coming out soon! |
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