Five hikes in Park City with the most beautiful views of nature

Hiking is one of the most popular activities for exploring the natural surroundings of Park City. The historic mountain town lies at an altitude of approximately 2,400 meters and offers an extensive network of trails of varying difficulty, suitable for both leisurely strolls and extended hikes. Here are five that boast some of the best views in the area:

Farm Trail (easy)
The Farm Trail is a wonderfully accessible hiking route suitable for all fitness levels and the whole family. This easy, paved path takes you past the historic McPolin Barn, one of Park City's most impressive landmarks, located directly off Highway 224. The trail stretches for several miles, allowing you to follow it for as long as you like, while enjoying spectacular views of the aspen trees, the babbling McLeod Creek, and a stunning meadow with grazing horses.

RTS Loop (easy)
The RTS Loop Trail runs directly below Utah Olympic Park and is easily accessible from the Olympic Parkway, across the road from the Run-A-Muk Trailhead. The High Valley Micro Transit is an excellent way to reach this trail. At 4 kilometers in length, the RTS offers a lesser-known but delightful opportunity to immerse yourself in nature without much effort—perfect for those seeking a short and easy outdoor excursion. With a minimal elevation change of 60 meters between the highest and lowest points of the loop, it's also an ideal trail for families with young children. As you wind through the forest, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area, especially at sunset.

Free Mason Trail (easy)
The Free Mason Trail is a short and easy hiking trail and a hidden gem near the Prospector neighborhood. Access is just under 100 meters from the Rail Trailhead, east of White Pine Touring (parking is available in Prospector Park or along the Rail Trail). This 2.5-kilometer (1.5-mile) trail is mostly flat and follows a gentle, even incline around April Mountain. Once you round the west side of the hill, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the historic downtown. Those with extra time and energy can connect to other trails in the area, such as the Lost Prospector, the Masonic, and the Gambel Oak.

(Silver Lake Trail - moderate)
The Silver Lake Trail offers some of the most beautiful natural views around Park City. A free shuttle bus takes you to the Silver Lake Lodge at Deer Valley Resort, the trailhead. From there, the trail winds its way up Bald Mountain, climbing 400 meters in elevation over a distance of approximately three kilometers. The hike offers spectacular views of the Jordanelle Reservoir and the Uinta Mountains. From the summit, you can descend the Ontario Canyon Trail , which meanders gently down the mountain and returns to the Silver Lake Lodge.

Mother Urban (moderate)
Mother Urban begins in the heart of Park City's historic Old Town. The trailhead is located at the Treasure Hill Trailhead, about 800 meters from the Park City Mountain (PCM) parking lot. While there is a parking area at the trailhead, it has limited space, so parking at the PCM lot is recommended. The trail starts at the lower Sweeney's Switchbacks and climbs gently for 8 kilometers (500 feet) before reaching its highest point on the Mid Mountain Trail south of King Road. Mother Urban passes beneath the Town Lift, and along the way, you'll see iconic cable car pylons, abandoned mine shafts, and other relics - entertaining reminders of Park City's rich mining history.

Hiking with cable car and bus
In Park City, you can take a scenic gondola ride directly up the mountain, saving yourself half the hike. Both Park City Mountain and Deer Valley offer gondola rides for hikers throughout the summer and into the fall. Additionally, the Orange and Purple bus lines from the Old Town Transit Center in Park City take guests directly up to Silver Lake Village and the Empire Lodge in Deer Valley, respectively. These are great ways to experience Park City's alpine scenery without needing a car or having to hike the lower trails.