World Tourism Day: How Park City is redefining sustainable mountain getaways

Looking up at historic Main Street. Photo: Park City Chamber & Visitors Bureau

PARK CITY, Utah — As World Tourism Day approaches on Sept. 27, Park City Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau is spotlighting its sustainable tourism initiatives.

“Park City has some pretty rigorous goals when it comes to sustainability and combating climate change,” Alix Suter, Visitor Experience Manager at the Park City Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Bureau, shared. “The visitor economy is the backbone of our economy in Park City. Our priority is to support it in a way that is good for the people who actually live here and the environment, so we provide information to visitors that enables them to visit us responsibly.”

Suter outlined six eco-conscious strategies aimed at reducing carbon emissions and preserving the local environment—park the car, reusable vs. single-use, shop local, embrace our heritage, leave no trace and respect for animals.

Suter emphasized minimizing car usage by encouraging visitors to use the city’s public transportation system. “Getting around Park City without a car has never been easier,” she said. Visitors can take advantage of free local buses, including the SLC-PC Connect and High Valley Transit, and explore the town via extensive bike paths.

“When planning your trip to Park City, do everything you can to come here responsibly,” Suter added. “Absolutely no private flights. Flying commercial reduces carbon emissions and is the greatest and easiest way to make a positive impact.”

In efforts to further reduce waste, Suter encouraged visitors to pack reusable water bottles, coffee mugs, and canvas bags, rather than relying on single-use plastics. “There are plenty of places to refill your water bottle, whether at the airport or at resorts and lodgings,” Suter said. “The drinking water here is safe to drink.”

Waste management remains a priority in Park City, with multiple recycling and composting options available. Curbside bins accept hard plastics, aluminum, and cardboard, while hotels and rentals often provide recycling containers. Visitors can also drop off soft plastics at local recycling centers. For those looking to get involved, Recycle Utah offers volunteer opportunities like trash pick-ups and sorting recyclables.

“I know that a lot of people come here for the holidays and end up shipping a bunch of items in advance,” Suter said. “It can be really helpful to talk to lodging partners in advance about recycling options, especially if you’re having a lot of boxes delivered.”

Supporting local businesses is another critical part of Park City’s sustainability push. Visitors are encouraged to shop at stores certified by Recycle Utah’s Green Business Program, which recognizes businesses committed to eco-friendly practices. Since its launch in 2016, the program has grown to include more than 100 businesses, aligning with Park City’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions and zero waste.

Suter also highlighted the town’s heritage as part of its sustainable tourism framework, encouraging visitors to explore Park City’s mining history and Olympic legacy by visiting historic sites. “By fostering a deeper connection to the town’s past, visitors can help safeguard its stories for future generations,” she said.

While enjoying Park City’s more than 400 miles of non-motorized trails, visitors are reminded to follow trail etiquette, including yielding to horses and uphill hikers, staying on marked paths, and packing out trash. “Leave no trace is a guiding principle for us,” Suter said. “We want to ensure that our trails remain beautiful and accessible for everyone, today and in the future.”

Suter recommended using parkcitytrails.org for route planning and trail conditions, especially during mud season or winter. “If the trail is soft or muddy and you’re leaving a track, turn around and find a different trail,” she advised.

Looking ahead, Suter introduced the upcoming “Visit Park City” mobile app, set to launch this winter. The app will help tourists build itineraries, access trail maps, and stay updated on real-time transportation options, all with sustainability in mind. “The app will be a one-stop resource for visitors and locals alike,” she said, noting that it will feature a digital guest guide and custom trip-planning tools. “It also connects to parkcitytrails.org for easy access to trail maps.”

As World Tourism Day approaches, Suter left visitors with a final message: “Treat Park City as your own neighborhood. Engage with the local community and respect the environment.”

For more information on sustainable travel tips and Park City’s ongoing stewardship efforts, visit the Visit Park City website, view the World Tourism Day video, or download the app when it launches this winter.