A look ahead for Basin Recreation

Basin Recreation is looking for volunteers for its Pulling for Native Plants, Dyer's Woad Weed Pull Event on Thursday, July 20. Photo: Basin Recreation, courtesy of Neighbors of Park City

PARK CITY, Utah — Parks, trails, open space, and recreation are highly valued in the District and Summit County, building on a long-held tradition of active living. Since the Snyderville Basin Special Recreation District was established by the Summit County Board of Commissioners in 1986, we have provided recreation facilities and services to residents of the western end of the County.

As Basin Recreation embarks on a new year, we are excited to announce some great new projects and programs that are in the works for our users.

Parks & Facilities

The Fieldhouse is an 87,000-square foot indoor facility that serves over 265,000 visitors a year. This facility houses weight rooms, a gymnasium and turf field, fitness classes, recreation programs, and camps. Basin Recreation also owns and operates several outdoor park facilities which include a bike park and skate park, playgrounds, multi-use fields, sports complexes, and dog parks. In 2022, residents and visitors will see some great improvements and additions including:

A New Park – Trailside East

Adjacent to Trailside Elementary, this park will include two multipurpose turf fields, two pavilions, 127 parking stalls, a transit stop, and a restroom. It is important to the District to keep up with our growing community and provide spaces for people to recreate. By installing artificial turf fields, youth sports will be able to extend their seasons earlier in the spring and later in the fall, and we will save a significant amount of water.

A Fieldhouse Refresh

As the number of users at The Fieldhouse continues to grow, the wear and tear on the facility and equipment also increases. New fitness and weightlifting equipment, as well as new exercise and circuit machines, have been purchased. With current supply chain delays it may take a bit longer for delivery, but Fieldhouse users will see the new equipment installed in 2022.  We are also looking at ways to improve the layout and functionality of the facility. User suggestions are welcome.

Trails & Open Space

With 175 miles of trails for year-round use, Basin Recreation’s trail system is extensive, complimentary, and connected to the surrounding trail systems. Basin also owns and manages nearly 2,300 acres of open space, working with State, County, and other organizations on planning and conservation. You can look forward to these new Trail and Open Space offerings in 2022:

New Discovery Trailhead and Trail System

Opening in the Spring of 2022, the new trailhead will provide a 25-stall parking lot and a restroom. From there, users can recreate on new directional bike trails, multi-use trails, and a hiking trail for easier access to Toll Canyon. There are also winter recreation opportunities including groomed trails for snowshoeing and fat biking.

Bike Park Jump Line

Basin Recreation was awarded a Summit County Restaurant Tax Grant in 2020 for improvements to the Trailside Bike Park. The project was completed just before the snow fell at the end of 2021. Upon opening in the Spring of 2022, riders will enjoy a more progressive jump line, a greater variety of features for all skill levels, and a newly constructed dual slalom course.

Run-A-Muk Dog Park Paving & Restroom Project

Thanks to a generous RAP (Recreation, Arts & Parks) Grant from Summit County, the Run-A-Muk Dog Park, and RTS trailheads will be paved, and the existing port-a-potty will be replaced with permanent restroom facilities. Run-A-Muk continues to be our most popular year-round trailhead and is used by Basin residents and visitors.

Naturalist Trail Programs

Basin Open Space Team will offer new interpretive trail walks and programs. We look forward to teaching you about the area’s wildflowers, wildlife, and biodiversity in the Snyderville Basin.

These projects are just some of the ways Basin Recreation is meeting the needs of the community in a way that makes the best use of resources and respects the amazing environment its residents call home. Get out and enjoy what our community has to offer. Beautiful parks and trails, great facilities, multiple activities, and programs, or just a calm, relaxing picnic with family or friends. Stop by and tell me what you think or email us at contactus@basinrecreation.org.

Resident submitted content, Dana Jones, District Director – Basin Recreation. Courtesy of Neighbors of Park City.