Gearhead’s® Guide To Mountain Biking Park City

Where trails, views, and adventure come together.

Park City, Utah—two words that send a shiver of excitement through any serious mountain biker. This mountain town, tucked into the Wasatch Range, has earned its reputation as one of the world’s most iconic riding destinations. With miles of pristine singletrack, technical descents that challenge even the bravest, and a town where the food and après scene rivals the trails, Park City doesn’t just cater to mountain bikers. It celebrates them.

This guide breaks down where to ride, where to eat, where to drink, and when to visit—so you can hit Park City’s dirt like a local.

Park City Trails: Explore Every Corner of Mountain Biking Bliss

Park City’s extensive trail network offers something for everyone, from gentle singletrack to heart-pounding descents. For years, Gearheads of all skill levels have found a trail to match their ability. So, if you’re a pro or just starting out you’ll be sure to find a ride that fits you.

Round Valley Trails 

Why We Love It: A great introduction to Park City’s mountain biking scene, Round Valley features accessible trails with smooth climbs, flowy descents, and adaptive MTB (aMTB) options. 

• Rambler: This aMTB 2-rated trail offers gentle gradients, stunning views, and a beginner-friendly loop. 
• Downward Dog: Rated aMTB 1, this smooth and easy trail is perfect for first-time riders or casual outings. 
• Pulp Friction: Slightly more technical with an aMTB 3 rating, it’s a great option for intermediate riders looking to elevate their skills. 
• Cousin Eddie: A fun, flowing trail with smooth berms and gentle descents, making it an excellent choice for skill-building. 
• Family Truckster: This family-friendly loop offers an easygoing ride with gentle climbs and playful twists, perfect for riders of all ages. 

North Basin Trails 

Why We Love It: With its steep climbs, shaded trails, and buttery dirt, North Basin is a favorite for riders seeking technical challenges and rewarding descents. 

• Road To WOS: A steep climb that leads to a thrilling descent, offering incredible views along the way. 
• Road To Arcylon: Packed with features, this trail is perfect for riders who want to test their technical skills while enjoying a flowy descent. 
• Dead Wreckoning: A steep, technical descent that promises an adrenaline rush for advanced riders. 

Glenwild Trails

Why We Love It: This area combines steady climbs and flowing descents, making it a favorite for riders looking for quick laps or extended loops. 

• Ant Farm: Twisty and fun, this trail is perfect for intermediate riders looking to improve their technical skills. 
• Flying Dog: A local classic offering rolling terrain, sweeping corners, and stunning views of the Wasatch Range. 
• The Drop Out: A fast and technical descent that promises plenty of excitement and adrenaline-pumping moments. 

Park City Mountain Resort Trails 

Why We Love It: Spanning 150 miles with over 128 trails, PCMR is a treasure trove for riders of all levels, offering everything from scenic beginner loops to advanced technical terrain. 

• Silver Queen: A flowy and scenic trail that’s beginner-friendly yet fun enough for intermediate riders. 
• Seldom Seen: A hidden gem with gentle descents and playful terrain that’s perfect for intermediate riders. 
• Mojave: Known for its flowy nature and moderate technical features, this trail offers a great ride for intermediates. 
• Black Forest: Advanced riders will love this trail’s technical sections and punchy terrain. 
• Redbull: A steep and challenging descent designed for expert riders seeking a high-stakes ride. 

Park City’s trails are a playground for mountain bikers, offering endless exploration, breathtaking scenery, and challenges for all skill levels. From gentle family loops to technical descents, this network ensures that every rider finds their perfect adventure.  

Life Service Trails

For riders who prefer to focus on descents, Park City’s lift-serviced trails offer adrenaline-packed fun. 

Deer Valley Mountain Resort Trails 

Why We Love It: Utah’s premier lift-serviced bike park features 113 trails, offering everything from beginner-friendly flow to advanced technical descents. 

• Tsunami: A gravity lover’s dream with big features and fast lines. 
• Tidal Wave: Smooth and playful, suitable for a wide range of riders. 
• Holy Roller: A beginner-friendly option for downhill newcomers. 

Shuttle Service Trails

Park City’s shuttle-supported trails combine stunning views, exhilarating descents, and unmatched mileage. Skip the uphill grind and let the shuttle—or your crew—handle the climb while you focus on the thrill of the downhill. 

• Wasatch Crest Trail: This iconic route starts at Guardsman Pass and takes you along breathtaking ridgelines with flowy singletrack and jaw-dropping views of the Wasatch Mountains. 
• Evil Empire Trail: A steep, technical descent with rocky terrain and tight switchbacks designed for advanced riders looking for a challenge. 
• WOW Trail (Wasatch Over Wasatch): A long, smooth descent perfect for intermediate riders, with scenic valley views and rolling terrain. 

If you self-shuttle with friends or book a ride with services like Big Rack Shuttle, these trails deliver the ultimate downhill experience. Ride more, climb less, and soak in the best of Park City.  

Gear Up At Backcountry Retail Store

Gear Up At Our Backcountry Retail Store!


Before you hit the trails, stop by our Retail Store for all your biking needs. Located conveniently in Park City, this shop is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. 

Why Us? 

• Premium Brands: Stock up on the latest gear from top brands like Yeti, Santa Cruz, and Fox Racing. 
• Expert Advice: The staff are seasoned outdoor enthusiasts ready to share their knowledge about local trails, gear recommendations, and biking tips. 
• Full-Service Bike Shop: Need a quick tune-up or repair? Backcountry’s skilled mechanics have you covered. 
• Demo Program: Curious about a new ride? Try out the latest bikes before you commit to a purchase. 

From hydration packs to trail-ready bikes, the Backcountry Retail Store ensures you’re prepared for any adventure Park City has to offer. 

Gear Essentials For Every Ride 

Wearable Riding Essentials 

• Hydration: Fanny pack, backpack, or vest. 
• Apparel: Jerseys, padded shorts or pants, and gloves. 
• Protection: Helmets, knee and elbow pads, and chest protectors. 

Ride Kit Must-Haves 

• Flat Repair: Tire plugs, patch kit, CO2 inflator, and spare tubes. 
• Tools: Allen keys, chain tool, spoke wrench, and tire levers. 
• First Aid: Always carry emergency supplies and contact information. 

Mountain Bike Resources 

Navigating and optimizing your mountain biking adventures is seamless with the right tools. One standout resource for riders is Trailforks. 

Why Trailforks is the Perfect On-Trail Tool 

Trailforks is much more than a map app; it’s a comprehensive tool tailored for mountain bikers. 

• Extensive Trail Database: Access a vast, community-driven database with detailed information on trails, including descriptions, difficulty ratings, photos, and user reviews. 
• Offline Access: Download trail maps for offline use, ensuring you stay on track even in remote areas without cell service. 
• Trail Conditions: Stay updated with real-time reports on closures, maintenance, and conditions to avoid surprises on the trail. 
• Elevation Profiles & Heatmaps: Plan your ride with elevation charts and heatmaps, perfect for gauging difficulty and popularity. 
• Emergency Features: Utilize GPS tracking and location-sharing tools for added safety during rides. 
• Community Insights: Tap into valuable local knowledge contributed by other riders, including tips, hidden gems, and trail etiquette. 

Park City’s network of famous trails can get overwhelming (even for us locals). Trailforks is a must-have tool for all riders, so you spend more time hooting and less time lost. 

Eating Options In Park City

Park City’s culinary scene is as varied and exciting as its trails, giving you options from up-scale to amazingly casual. As locals, we’ve tried just about everything, here are a few of our favorites. 

Sit-Down Dining 

• Boneyard Saloon & Wine Dive: Known for its elevated comfort food, this spot features a rooftop patio with stunning views. Try the gourmet burgers paired with a local craft beer. 
• Yuki Yama Sushi: A chic Japanese eatery offering fresh sushi, inventive rolls, and exceptional sake pairings. The Hamachi Carpaccio is a crowd favorite. 
• Riverhorse on Main: Park City’s fine-dining gem, serving dishes like macadamia nut-crusted halibut and buffalo short ribs. Perfect for a celebratory meal. 
• Handle: A modern American restaurant known for its creative small plates, such as the fried chicken sliders and ricotta dumplings. 
• Hearth and Hill: A local gathering spot offering inventive dishes with seasonal ingredients. The grilled salmon and short rib pasta are standouts. 
• Kaneo: A stylish spot with a focus on bold flavors and upscale Mexican-inspired cuisine. 

Quick Bites 

• Five5eeds: An Australian-inspired café perfect for a post-ride brunch. Don’t miss their smashed avocado toast or protein-packed Superfood Bowl. 
• El Chubasco: A local favorite for authentic Mexican food. Their extensive salsa bar is legendary. 
• Sammy’s Bistro Express: Affordable, quick, and delicious. Their mahi-mahi tacos and chicken rice bowls are perfect for a casual bite. 
• Chop Shop: A modern butcher shop offering quick sandwiches and freshly prepared meals perfect for grab-and-go options. 
• Clockwork Cafe: Known for hearty sandwiches, fresh coffee, and quick bites for riders on the move. 
• Davanza’s: A laid-back eatery serving pizza, tacos, and burgers. A great stop for a filling, post-ride meal. 

Bars And Breweries 

• No Name Saloon: A Park City icon, offering a lively atmosphere, rooftop seating, and a great selection of craft cocktails and beers. 
• The Spur Bar & Grill: Live music, hearty pub fare, and handcrafted cocktails make this spot a favorite among locals and visitors alike. 
• High West Distillery: Utah’s first distillery since Prohibition, offering whiskey flights, signature cocktails, and elevated bar snacks in a cozy setting. 
• The Sticky Wicket: A lively, English-inspired pub serving local brews and classic bar fare. 
• Alpine Distilling: Known for its handcrafted spirits, Alpine Distilling offers an intimate experience with expertly crafted cocktails and mountain-town charm. 

Where To Stay In Park City

Finding the perfect lodging is half the fun of staying in a unique place like Park City. While the town might be small, you’ll be sure to find something that suits you and your budget, so you’re refreshed every day for new adventures. 

Hotels

• Hotel Park City, Autograph Collection: A luxury stay with stunning mountain views, spacious suites, and premium amenities. Enjoy post-ride recovery at the on-site spa or unwind in the heated outdoor pool. 
• Newpark Hotel: A mid-range option offering modern suites, private hot tubs, and convenient access to trails. Perfect for families and groups looking for comfort and value. 
• Park City Hostel: Ideal for budget-conscious riders. This cozy, community-focused spot provides affordable lodging with shared spaces for mingling and swapping trail stories. 
• DoubleTree By Hilton: Known for its warm hospitality and spacious rooms, DoubleTree is a great option for families and groups. The heated pool and mountain views offer the perfect après-ride retreat. 

Airbnb 

Park City, Utah, a world-renowned mountain biking destination, offers an impressive selection of Airbnb rentals to meet every rider’s needs. From modern condos near downtown to secluded mountain homes, these accommodations provide easy access to Park City’s extensive trail network, including iconic routes like Mid Mountain and Armstrong. Many Airbnbs are equipped with bike-friendly amenities such as secure storage, repair stands, and proximity to local bike shops, making them perfect for anyone searching for a two-wheeled adventure. 

From luxury resorts to budget-friendly stays, Park City’s lodging options ensure every rider has a comfortable basecamp to explore the epic trails and beyond.  

Best Time To Visit Park City

The best riding conditions in Park City span late spring through fall, with each season offering unique highlights: 

• Spring (Late May - June): Cooler temperatures and blooming wildflowers make for serene rides. 
• Summer (July - August): Long days and perfect trail conditions make this peak season. 
• Fall (September - October): Crisp air, golden foliage, and fewer crowds make autumn the ultimate time to ride. 

Gearhead Tip: In winter, fat biking on groomed snow trails offers a unique way to enjoy Park City.

Why Park City? 


Park City isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience. Here’s what makes it so special: 

World-Class Trails 
With over 450 miles of trails, including IMBA Gold-Level options, Park City caters to every skill level. From beginner-friendly loops to technical descents, there’s always a new adventure waiting. 

Breathtaking Scenery 
Picture yourself riding through golden aspen groves, cresting alpine ridges, and gazing out at panoramic views of the Wasatch Mountains. Park City’s landscapes are as diverse as they are stunning. 

Vibrant Community 
The biking culture in Park City is warm and welcoming. You’ll always find someone to swap tips at the trailhead or enjoy a post-ride beer. The sense of camaraderie is undeniable. 

Year-Round Appeal 
In summer, Park City’s trails are in peak condition. Come winter, the area transforms into a snow sports paradise, with fat biking keeping riders on the trails year-round. 

Beyond Biking 
Park City is more than just a biking hotspot. Explore its thriving arts scene, enjoy live music events, or unwind with a spa day. There’s something here for everyone.

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