PARK CITY, Utah — Park City may be known for its powdery slopes, but for many locals and me, the trail systems truly define this town. My family, our dogs, and I are out every single day, rain or shine. These trails are where we move, breathe, connect, and reset. They’re not just paths through the mountains—they’re a part of our daily life and well-being. That’s why I put a percentage of my proceeds toward supporting and maintaining the very trails we walk.

Whether you’re here for a quick getaway or lucky enough to call this place home, there’s a trail in Park City waiting to ground you, inspire you, and get your blood pumping. Below, I’ve rounded up some of my favorites, categorized by difficulty, to help you find the perfect path, wherever you are on your hiking journey.

Bring your best friend along to Run-a-muk. Photo: Rebecca Brenner.

Beginner-Friendly Trails: Easy Does It

McLeod Creek Trail

  • Distance: ~6 miles out-and-back (easy to customize)
  • Elevation Gain: Minimal
  • Dog-Friendly: Yes
  • Highlights: Scenic creek crossings, open meadows, peaceful neighborhoods

This wide, mostly paved trail is perfect for families, cyclists, joggers, and walkers. Running parallel to Highway 224, it connects neighborhoods to Kimball Junction and makes for a relaxing nature walk—without ever leaving town.

Run-A-Muk Dog Park Trail

  • Distance: ~2 miles (loop options)
  • Elevation Gain: Light
  • Dog-Friendly: Off-leash
  • Highlights: Aspen groves, soft dirt trails, lots of happy pups

Ideal for dog owners or anyone looking for a mellow, nature-filled stroll. Located near Utah Olympic Park, this is one of the most beloved spots for locals to let their dogs roam while they soak in mountain views. You may even find me here with my 3 dogs so be sure to say hello!

Armstrong Trail shines in fall colors. Photo: TownLift // Laura Modena

Moderate Trails: A Little Effort, Big Views

Armstrong Trail

  • Distance: 3.3 miles one way
  • Elevation Gain: ~1,000 feet
  • Dog-Friendly: On-leash
  • Highlights: Thick forests, wildflowers, shaded climbs

A Park City classic! This well-maintained trail offers a moderate ascent through groves of aspens and pines, with sweeping views of the valley below. Bonus: it’s usually cool and shady, even in the summer.

Jenni’s Trail

  • Distance: 5 miles one way from Park City Mountain base
  • Elevation Gain: ~1,300 feet
  • Dog-Friendly: On-leash
  • Highlights: Panoramic views, wildflowers, ski-lift sightings

Starting right at the base of Park City Mountain Resort, Jenni’s Trail is a beautiful singletrack that gently climbs up the slopes. It’s great for hikers who want a workout but still plan to make it back in time for brunch.

Bloods Lake in the fall. Reader Ally Bebbling says, "I love going early in the morning before the crowds get there. It's magical."
Bloods Lake is the prize at the end of a long journey. Photo: Ally Bebbling.

Advanced Trails: High Altitude, High Reward

Mid-Mountain Trail

  • Distance: 23 miles point-to-point (do any section)
  • Elevation: ~8,000 feet throughout
  • Dog-Friendly: On-leash
  • Highlights: Forests, ridgelines, wildflowers, views galore

This IMBA “Epic” trail runs the length of Park City’s mountains and links several other trails. Most locals and visitors tackle it in chunks—Silver Lake to Spiro is a popular section. A must-do for experienced hikers or mountain bikers.

Bloods Lake Trail (via Guardsman Pass)

  • Distance: ~3 miles round trip
  • Elevation Gain: ~465 feet
  • Dog-Friendly: No longer dog friendly
  • Highlights: High-elevation lake, family-friendly, summer swimming

Don’t let the short distance fool you—this trail has a bit of a kick at the start. But the reward is worth it: a serene alpine lake surrounded by evergreens and wildflowers. Pack a swimsuit or picnic and hang by the water.

Jupiter Peak via Crescent Mine Grade

  • Distance: ~9 miles round trip
  • Elevation Gain: ~2,500 feet
  • Dog-Friendly: On-lease
  • Highlights: Epic views, alpine ridgelines, a true summit feel

One of Park City’s ultimate hiking achievements. Jupiter Peak towers above the ski resorts, offering 360-degree views and a feeling of real mountain accomplishment. This one’s best in mid-to-late summer when the snow has melted off.

Photo: Park City Mountain.

Quick Tips for Hiking in Park City

  • Start early to beat the heat and the crowds—especially in July and August.
  • Bring water and snacks—even short hikes can feel longer at 7,000+ feet.
  • Check trail conditions on apps like AllTrails or Mountain Trails Foundation.
  • Be bear-aware in spring and fall, and always practice Leave No Trace.
  • Watch for wildlife like deer, moose, and marmots—keep your distance and your camera ready!

Final Word

No matter your skill level, Park City has a trail that’ll leave you breathless in the best way. With landscapes that change by season—lush green summers, golden aspen falls, and wildflower-filled ridges—there’s no off-season when it comes to hiking here.

So go ahead, pick your trail and enjoy the mountain magic. We’ll see you out there.

Julie Snyder is an experienced real estate professional who serves as a lifestyle resource for clients looking to buy or sell in the Park City area, offering luxury real estate services backed by the power of a global brand. The founder of Inhabit Park City and a sales agent at Summit Sotheby’s International Realty, Julie aims to understand her clients’ needs and lifestyles before pairing them with carefully curated options that fulfill their criteria and wishes. Julie describes herself as honest, analytical, and passionate. Utilizing market data, strong negotiation skills, and effective communication, Julie easily navigates Utah’s competitive real estate market. She views herself as a relocation specialist and proudly shares her deep local knowledge of the area’s schools, neighborhoods, restaurants, clubs, and outdoor experiences.

BE IN THE KNOW! SIGN UP BELOW FOR LOCAL BUSINESS, MARKET, AND EVENT UPDATES.

Julie Snyder, INHABIT Park City Summit Sotheby's

TEL. 339-222-0935
EMAIL. julie@inhabitparkcity.com