The 910 Ranch in Summit County. Photo: Summit County

PARK CITY, Utah — Outdoor recreation projects in Summit and Wasatch counties are set to receive more than $1.3 million in state funding as part of a record $19.2 million investment announced by the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation.

The grants will support trail improvements, recreation infrastructure, and facility upgrades across Utah, funding 81 projects in 27 counties. Combined with local matching funds, the projects represent more than $61 million in outdoor recreation investments statewide.

Locally, Summit County’s trail network, the Snyderville Basin Recreation District’s Wheels Park, Midway’s ice rink, and recreation amenities around Strawberry Reservoir are among the projects selected for funding.

Summit County trail and bike park improvements

The largest local award went to the Snyderville Basin Special Recreation District, which received $500,000 for improvements and expansion at Wheels Park. The project carries a total estimated cost of $1.85 million and is categorized as a multi-ability recreation facility.

Summit County’s Lands and Natural Resources Department was also awarded $347,760 for Phase II development of the 910 Ranch Recreation Area trail system. The project, with a total cost of nearly $700,000, will continue expanding hiking and nature-based recreation opportunities on county-owned open space.

Together, the two Summit County projects secured nearly $848,000 in state funding.

Wasatch County projects focus on recreation infrastructure

In Wasatch County, three projects received funding through the Recreation Restoration Infrastructure program.

Midway City was awarded $250,000 for upgrades to its ice-skating rink, a project with an estimated total cost of more than $1.1 million.

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources received $200,000 for construction of a boardwalk and improvements near the Strawberry Visitors Center and Fish Trap area at Strawberry Reservoir. The project is valued at approximately $1.24 million.

Deer Creek State Park also received $9,000 for maintenance and widening of the popular Wallsburg Trail.

Combined, Wasatch County projects received $459,000 in grant funding.

Statewide investments

The funding announcement includes several high-profile projects around the state, including Phase 2 of the Ashley Gorge Via Ferrata near Vernal, Utah’s first adaptive pump track in Salt Lake City, an adaptive mountain bike trail at North Fork Park in Weber County, and an all-abilities park in Castle Dale.

State officials say the investments will improve access to trails, parks, bike facilities, climbing destinations, water recreation infrastructure, and community recreation amenities while helping local governments and nonprofits address growing demand for outdoor recreation throughout Utah.