Avoid muddy trails this weekend

Muddy trail conditions persist across much of Park City's terrain. Local trail organizations are urging users to turn around if they encounter wet or muddy conditions. Photo: Basin Recreation

PARK CITY, Utah — Basin Recreation and Mountain Trails Foundation are urging people to be judicious this weekend when heading out on trails around Park City. An incoming storm, along with many areas already being wet from snowmelt, is creating muddy conditions, well, pretty much everywhere. 

“It’s looking like more of a book and a blanket type weekend than a wheels and heels. I know we were all starting to get that early dry out excitement, but NOAA has rain forecasted through Monday. Practice that inner Zen of patience until mid to late next week for any dirt related activities.” Basin Recreation posted early Friday morning. 

During periods of wet weather and conditions, both organizations urge trail users to adhere to the “soft ground – turn around” standard. Basically, if you are leaving a rut, don’t proceed.

“If snow or dirt is too wet or soft to ride a straight line, then turn around. Tires can leave ruts that ruin groomed trails for other users. Ruts lead to erosion and costly trail repairs,” Mountain Trails Foundation stated.

Particular areas to avoid are RTS, Discovery Ridge, and Summit Park, which are on mud and snow hold. In the Glenwild area, anything above lower Cobblestone on the east and the bottom of Preserve Connector on the west are still a mix of mud and snow. Flying Dog is also not ready to ride yet.

After the storm fully passes, Bob’s Basin DH trails are a good bet. Basin Recreation recommends access from Spring Creek.