Summer Mountain Biking in Park City with Kids
Park City is a world-class mountain biking destination - and there's great riding for families too. Here's how to get started.
Two Wheels, One Amazing Town
Park City has over 450 miles of trails and has been designated a Gold-Level Ride Center by IMBA (International Mountain Bicycling Association). While it's known for expert-level riding, there's a huge amount of family-friendly terrain that makes it the perfect place to introduce kids to mountain biking.
Beginner Trails for Families
Rail Trail - Paved and flat, this is the perfect starter trail for young riders. Ride from Bonanza Drive toward Wanship for a scenic out-and-back.
Round Valley - Wide, rolling singletrack through open meadows. The trails are well-marked and there's very little exposure or steep terrain. Perfect for kids who've outgrown the bike path.
McLeod Creek Trail - A gentle creekside path connecting Kimball Junction to town. Shaded in spots and very manageable for young riders.
Intermediate Family Rides
Lost Prospector - A rolling loop through aspen groves with some gentle technical sections. Great for building skills in kids 8 and up.
Glenwild - Beautiful trails with some short climbs and flowy descents. The views of the Snyderville Basin are incredible. Carry a hydration pack - summer rides get warm at altitude.
Lift-Served Biking
Park City Mountain Resort and Deer Valley both offer lift-served mountain biking in summer. Park City Mountain has flow trails and jump lines for older, experienced kids. Deer Valley's trails are more cross-country oriented. Both rent bikes and offer lessons.
Gear and Safety
Helmets are non-negotiable. For kids riding singletrack, gloves and knee pads add confidence. Several shops on Main Street rent quality kids' mountain bikes - Jans, White Pine Touring, and Cole Sport all have family bike packages. Good cycling sunglasses protect eyes from dust and sun on the trails.
Making It Fun
Keep rides short and sweet for younger kids. End at a fun destination like a playground, ice cream shop, or swimming spot. The McLeod Creek trail ends right near a great playground in town. Positive experiences now create lifelong mountain bikers. Do not skip the sunscreen - the UV at altitude is no joke, even on cloudy days. Comfortable hiking shoes are non-negotiable for the trails. Bring a reusable water bottle for everyone - staying hydrated makes a huge difference with kids. Always pack a compact first aid kit - with kids, you never know when you will need it.
Hiking Essentials to Pack
Here are our tried-and-tested picks for this trip: