Growing up in Park City, I always looked forward to mud season, that magical time of year when the snow was too patchy to ski, the trails were too muddy to bike, and the town itself seemed to stand still. It was a brief and welcomed pause from the usual hustle of living in a ski town. As a kid, I remember walking down Main Street in the spring and having it almost entirely to myself, without a single car in sight. Mud season on Main Street reminded me of what Park City must have been like after the Silver Rush when it was a ghost town.
Mud season; as the locals call it, refers to the periods in spring and fall between the summer and winter seasons. The name comes from the muddy conditions on the trails, which limit hiking and biking, as well as the melting snowpack forcing ski resorts to close in mid-April. Many assume this means there’s little to do, but in reality, it’s an opportunity to explore Utah in a different way. Here are some of the best ways to make the most of this underrated shoulder season.
1. Road and Gravel Biking
Mud season is the perfect time to take advantage of Utah’s scenic road and gravel biking routes, many of which are closed to vehicle traffic. The cooler temperatures and lack of cars on the road make for a peaceful and enjoyable ride. Here are some of the best spots to explore:
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Lamb’s Canyon – This 7-mile out-and-back gravel ride winds through a tight canyon, offering stunning alpine scenery where you can see the trees budding their first leaves of spring. It is conveniently located between Park City and Salt Lake, offering an easy access point from both hubs.
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City Creek Canyon – A favorite for Salt Lake locals, this 6-mile out-and-back gravel ride follows a gentle stream up a lush canyon, making for a scenic and relaxing ride. Note: There is construction in City Creek ongoing through Spring 2027 - for up-to-date road closures, click here.
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SR 65 to East Canyon – Starting from the gate at Little Dell Reservoir, this seasonal road closure allows for uninterrupted road biking up East Canyon. Ride as far as the snow line allows, then enjoy a smooth, traffic-free descent back to the parking lot.
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Mirror Lake Highway – Closed to vehicles in winter, this scenic high-alpine road is a cyclist’s dream in early spring. Ride past towering pines and catch glimpses of melting snow while taking in the fresh mountain air. After your ride, don’t forget to stop at Woodland Biscuit Company for some of the best breakfast in town.
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Antelope Island State Park – For a unique biking experience, ride the dirt and gravel trails of Antelope Island. Pedal alongside free-roaming bison, enjoy panoramic views of the Great Salt Lake and take advantage of the mild spring weather before the summer heat arrives.
2. Spring Volunteer Opportunities
Give back to the community while enjoying the outdoors with local spring clean-up events. One great option is the Run-A-Muk Spring Cleanup in Park City, where volunteers help maintain and restore this beloved off-leash dog area. It’s a great way to meet fellow outdoor enthusiasts and keep local trails in top shape. Plus, if you find the Golden Poo, you’ll win a special prize! Register and learn more at Basin Recreation’s website.
The Mountain Trails Foundation also organizes community trail repair events throughout the spring. To learn more about specific trail-building days, check out their Instagram. Additionally, individuals can head out on the trails anytime to perform repairs at their leisure.
3. Strolling Main Street Without the Crowds
Park City’s Main Street (if you're not familiar, read more about it here) in peak season is bustling with excited energy, but during mud season, you have the place to yourself. Take your time popping into boutiques, sipping coffee at Atticus Coffee & Teahouse, checking out some new outerwear at Stio, or grabbing a drink at High West Distillery and Saloon. This is the perfect time to appreciate Old Town’s charm at your own pace, take in local art galleries, and even chat with shop owners who have more time to engage with customers.
4. Exploring Utah’s Best Museums
A little rain (or lingering snow) is the perfect excuse to check out Utah’s museums. Whether you’re into history, art, or science, there’s something for everyone:
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Natural History Museum of Utah – Fascinating dinosaur fossils, interactive exhibits, and unbeatable views of the Salt Lake Valley. The Natural History Museum of Utah offers a lot of fun educational content about the mountains that we know and love and great activities for all ages.
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Utah Museum of Fine Arts – A diverse collection of artwork from around the world, plus rotating exhibits that keep things fresh.
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Park City Museum – Learn about Park City’s silver mining roots, sit in the Skier Subway, and explore an old jail hidden beneath Main Street.
5. Wildlife Watching in the Wetlands
Spring is the best time for birdwatching, as migration is in full swing. Head to the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge or Swaner Nature Preserve and EcoCenter to spot pelicans, herons, and a variety of eagles.
6. Desert Escapes
If the mountains up north are too muddy, head south! The deserts of Moab, St. George, and Capitol Reef are warming up but haven’t yet hit peak summer temps. Explore the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon National Park, or hike Angel’s Landing in Zion National Park without the crowds. The contrast between the lingering snow in the mountains and the warm red rock desert makes for an unbeatable Utah experience.
7. Live Music
For a fun way to cap off mud season, check out the Junction Jam Concert Series in Park City on April 27. This community event features live music, food, and entertainment in a laid-back setting.
Additionally, the Park City Mountainhosts live music on April 5, 12, and 19, bringing together locals and visitors for an afternoon of great tunes and good vibes. More info can be found at cvma.com/events.
If you’re on the Salt Lake City side, don’t miss Alpha Coffee After Dark every Friday at their Big Cottonwood Canyon Location from 6-7:30 p.m. where they offer live music, beer, wine, an extended menu, and extended hours.
8. Woodward
Craving adventure sports during Mud Season? Head on over to Woodward Park City, where their indoor skate park, trampolines, and jumps into foam pits allow you to get your adrenaline rush year-round.
Embracing the Mud
Mud season may not have the excitement of powder skiing or the buzz of summer festivals, but it offers a rare chance to slow down and enjoy Utah in a different light. Whether you're biking quiet roads, volunteering on the trails, or taking a quiet stroll down Main Street, this shoulder season is full of hidden gems waiting to be explored. It’s the perfect time to embrace a slower, more intimate connection with the town before the summer rush begins.
