Step Into Winter with Snowy Escapes on Snowshoes

As winter settles over the Wasatch Back and ski resorts reach max capacity, a quieter kind of adventure begins on the surrounding local trails where snowshoeing offers a more intimate way to take in Park City’s winter landscape. With snowshoeing, the learning curve is almost nonexistent, and the reward comes from moving through winter on your own power—step by step. For many locals, it’s the activity they turn to when they want to be outside without the pressure, noise, or logistics that come with a day at the resorts.

Part of snowshoeing’s appeal is its simplicity: strap into a pair of snowshoes, pick a trail, and start walking. The mechanics are familiar, similar to hiking during the summer and fall, but the experience is elevated once you’re on snow. Soft powder adds resistance, packed trails encourage a steady rhythm, and uneven terrain keeps your whole body working.

Gear is straightforward and likely already in the winter closet: waterproof boots, moisture-wicking layers, gloves, and a hat. On sunny days, sunglasses or goggles are recommended, and many people bring light poles for balance on uneven terrain. The result is a low-impact workout that’s easy to start yet engages your legs and core. It’s a tranquil entry point for people easing back into activity, adjusting to the altitude, or looking for stress-free exercise during the winter months.

Snowshoeing also creates space to slow down and escape from the exhilaration of a resort town. The quieter trails and steady movement offer a break from the pace of Park City, even for a short outing. It’s a reliable way to clear your head and come back to the day with more focus.

Summit and Wasatch counties have a large network of winter-ready trails maintained by local trail groups, making snowshoeing especially accessible. Round Valley is a popular starting point as it’s well-marked, easy to get to, and dog friendly. With multiple trailheads and plenty of groomed track, it’s ideal for anyone new to snowshoeing or looking for a scenic outing. For something flatter and even easier on the legs, trails like McLeod Creek, the East 224 Connector, or the Gambel Oak Loop offer wide, mostly level terrain while still delivering winter scenery and a chance to explore local natural areas. Whether you’re after a gentle trek or want to ease into winter terrain at a steady pace, Park City’s trail system offers options that don’t require steep climbs or backcountry experience.

For those new to the sport, guided tours offer a straightforward way to get into snowshoeing. Local guides select routes based on conditions and ability, so groups aren’t worrying about terrain, weather, or navigation. Outings range from short walks close to town to longer excursions in nearby foothills, and some operators host evening tours when winter skies are clear. A guided trip takes the guesswork out of exploring new trails whether the goal is an easy introduction or a more active outing. And for beginners, the group format also helps set a comfortable pace and provides simple pointers on moving efficiently through snow, so the experience stays relaxed from the start.

In a town known for its world-class skiing, snowshoeing offers a different way to see winter on the Wasatch Back via open landscapes and a kind of quiet that’s increasingly rare. It isn’t meant to replace high-energy days on the mountain, but it expands what winter in Park City can mean. With nearby trails, easy rental options, and an adventure that suits beginners and seasoned adventurers alike, snowshoeing remains one of the area’s most dependable and inviting winter pastimes.