Photo courtesy of snowbird.com

With summer temperatures on the rise, it’s time to find ways to beat the heat this July in Park City. We’ve got plenty of activities to distract from the scorching heat index (think county fairs, cooking classic and, of course, music!), but a scenic drive over to Little Cottonwood Canyon could be the perfect way to start. From food to music, rodeo nights and “fiesta days,” read on for more ways to enjoy the long, sunny days of another spectacular Utah summer.

Summer Scenic Tram Rides at Snowbird:

Snowbird’s Aerial Tram, which first opened in 1971, whisks passengers along a 1.6-mile cable and up 2,900 vertical feet during the 10-minute trip to the top of Hidden Peak. The round-trip can be done in 40 minutes, including about 20 minutes of sightseeing on Hidden Peak, but guests may spend as long as they wish. 

This summer, the resort is unveiling its new Aerial Tram cabin, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and three 3’x3’ glass floor panels. And file this tidbit away for Summer 2023: The tram will feature a rooftop balcony – the first of its kind in the United States – where up to 14 guests can literally spread their wings and ride outside while the Aerial Tram climbs and descends from 11,000 feet with 360-degree views.

The Tram and the Hidden Peak Terminal are handicap accessible. Please note, with just one Tram carrying passengers this summer, sales are limited and reservable time slots are required with the purchase of a scenic ride. 

The details: 11 a.m.-8 p.m. daily; $40 for adults, $33 for children ages 7-16.

Savor ‘The Next Course’ with classes at Mountain Town Olive Oil Co.:

Mountain Town Olive Oil Co. is offering its signature food and wine pairing classes all season long. “The Next Course” classes feature favorite summer themes such as al fresco brunch, cookouts, and summer salads, and participants in this special series include a tasting of 3-5 recipes each week with an optional wine pairing. Featured chefs share unique ways to use oils and vinegars and provide helpful recipe hints. Participants take home recipes, a small gift of Mountain Town Olive Oil products and a discount to shop in the store afterwards. 

The details: 

• Friday, July 22: Greek Fest featuring Chef Deanna; 5 p.m.
• Thursday, July 28: Summer Salads featuring Chef Kelley, 1 p.m.  
• Friday, Aug. 12: Steakhouse Favorites featuring Chef Deanna, 5 p.m.
• Thursday, Aug. 18: Vegetarian Fiesta featuring Chef Kelley, 1 p.m.

Classes are limited to 8-14 people and start at $60 per person with an optional wine pairing of $20. Reservations and payment are required 48 hours in advance by calling 435-649-1400. 

Celebrate the ‘red, white and blue in 2022’ at Kamas Valley Fiesta Days

Keep the summer celebration going at the annual Kamas Valley Fiesta Days, running from this Thursday, July 21, though Saturday, July 23. While the Demolition Derby may be sold out, Fiesta Days features a lineup of nightly fireworks, two evening dances, a rodeo, “bull wars,” fun run and two parades!

The details (highlights listed here, visit the web for full schedule):

Thursday, July 21

• Kamas City Kids Night, 5-7 p.m.
• Rodeo & fireworks, 8 p.m.

Friday, July 22

• Parade, 6 p.m.
• Bull Wars & fireworks, 8 p.m.
• Dance – after Bull Wars until midnight 

Saturday, July 23

• Fun run, 7 a.m.
• Lions Club Breakfast in City Park
• Kids Parade
• Demolition Derby & Fireworks
• Dance – after Derby until Midnight

For complete schedule and details, visit the web at kamascityut.gov.

Experience the call of the wild at RMEF Mountain Fest

The RMEF (Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation) kicks off its MTN Festival this Thursday, July 21, at Canyons Village. Events run through Saturday, July 22, and are highlighted by the two-day World Elk Calling Championships, live music, seminars from outdoor industry pros, live podcasts, interactive experiences and an outdoor exhibition area featuring more than 50 outdoor industry vendors.

Additional highlights include the Total Archery Challenge, three days of demonstrations by Traeger and Whiskey Bent BBQ supply company, hunting fitness tips by Sorinex, special RMEF raffles and nightly afterparties. Daytime programming at Canyons Village is free and open to the public. Tickets for the festival’s special events may be purchased onsite at the RMEF booth starting Thursday, July 21.

Before you go: Mark your calendars! 

Before you head out on your July adventures, would you believe it’s already time to mark your calendar for special events coming up this August? From art on Main Street to a tour of Utah’s infinite starry skies, make your plans now to take advantage of the action. 

• The 2022 Park City Kimball Arts Festival returns to Park City’s Historic Main Street over Aug. 5-7, and the time is now to sign up for Locals’ Night. The admission fee is waived for Summit County residents on Friday, Aug. 5, from 5-9 p.m. Advance registration is required, and Locals’ Night tickets will not be available at entrance gates. Sign up HERE.

• What’s sure to be one of summer’s most unique dining experience in Park City is the second annual Astronomy Dinner, presented by Hill’s Kitchen, on Friday, Aug. 5, from 6:30-10 p.m. This family-style dinner will be set under the stars at Avalanche Ranch in Oakley, with astronomers from the University of Utah Observatory hosting a guided laser star tour along with telescope views of the night sky. Make your reservations by calling Hill’s Kitchen at 435.200.8840 and visit the web for details including the delicious menu!

• Just one county fair isn’t enough around these parts, which is why Wasatch County Fair Days run July 29 through Aug. 6. Events include two nights of Demolition Derby action, the three-day MV Stampede Rodeo, a country market and carnival, livestock exhibits, parade, fireworks and more. Visit the web for a detailed daily schedule of events.