Deer Valley hiking trails are an incredible way to take in scenic views and get some exercise. But when you combine a hike with a ride on one of the resort’s three summer chairlifts, you add an entirely new dimension to your adventure and maximize your mountain time.

Enjoy the Wasatch and Uinta Mountains from an aerial perspective and soak in the vistas, then compare the bird’s-eye view with the scenery you’ll find on your own two feet.

Combine a Scenic Chairlift Ride with a Hike

With fantastic hiking opportunities and spectacular chairlift rides, why not make a plan to experience both on your Deer Valley vacation? Ride the chairlift up the mountain and enjoy a downhill walk or, if you’re feeling even more energetic, hike up the mountain and take a complimentary chairlift ride back down.

Park your car at Snow Park Lodge, then hop on the Silver Lake Express chairlift to reach Silver Lake Village. Then hop on the Sterling Express chairlift mid-mountain to soar to the top of 9,400-foot Bald Mountain. Alternately, start at Empire Canyon Lodge and take a ride up the Ruby Express chairlift to reach the top of 9,100-foot Flagstaff Mountain for another hiking adventure.

Be prepared for any mountain excursion with sturdy hiking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, a jacket, food, ample water, and any medicines or other supplies you’ll need. Always be prepared for inclement weather and quickly changing mountain conditions.

Don’t Miss These Hikes

All three Deer Valley summer chairlifts offer a variety of hiking options. The Silver Lake Trail is a fun, popular option that lets you explore Bald Mountain and take in views of the Jordanelle Reservoir and the Uinta Mountains.

Ride the Silver Lake Express to Silver Lake Village and walk up the Silver Lake Trail. Or take lifts all the way to the top of 9,400-foot Bald Mountain by then hopping on the Sterling Express and enjoying a hike back down. This hikers-only trail winds for about two miles, dropping 1,300 vertical feet on the way back down.

Combine the Silver Lake Trail with the Ontario Trail (on the opposite side of the Sterling Express chairlift) for a five-mile loop that covers even more spectacular scenery.

Another great hiking option is on neighboring Flagstaff Mountain. Take Ruby Express to the top of 9,100-foot Flagstaff Mountain and take the Red Cloud Trail back down to the base (or hike up and take the chairlift back down).

Let the Pros Lead

If venturing out on your own is intimidating—or you’d just rather have a professional show you the way and explain everything you’re seeing—consider signing up for a guided hiking tour. Knowledgeable guides share information about the area, its rich history, and the local plants and animals.

Guided hikes have a two-hour minimum and the fee for 1-5 hikers is $42 per hour, while larger groups of 6-10 can expect to pay $84 per hour. Hikers should be relatively fit, have sturdy footwear, sun protection, water, and snacks.

PRO TIP: Stay two or more nights at a select Deer Valley managed property and get 20% off your entire stay plus a $50 Deer Valley Mountain Activities Card. Get more information here: deervalley.com

Free Rides Down

Hiking to the top of 9,400-foot Bald Mountain or 9,100-foot Flagstaff Mountain is a great way to spend an unforgettable summer. And, once you make it to the top of the mountain, you can enjoy a complimentary chairlift ride back down. This way, you don’t have to worry about hiking back down or buying a ticket. You got yourself up—the ride down is free.

Monthly Guided Historical Hikes

Once a month, experienced guides share their knowledge of local history on historical hiking tours. The three to four hour hikes are moderately strenuous, though they generally stay under six miles in length. Reservations are required and a $10 fee applies. Call 435-645-6648 to make a reservation.

Enjoy friendly company while you’re learning about the area’s fascinating mining history on one of these popular excursions. While reservations aren’t required, only a limited number of participants can join each hike.

This year’s hikes depart from the base of the Sterling Express chairlift at 9:30 a.m. on the scheduled day. Dates for 2016’s free guided historical hikes include June 10, July 8, August 12, September 9, and October 14.

Originally written by RootsRated for Deer Valley.