When you think of the outdoors in Utah, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? You probably thought of something like, Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks, “The Greatest Snow on EarthⓇ,” the 2002 Winter Olympic Games, or “one of the best places to ski,” right?

While it’s true that Utah is a top attraction for winter sports lovers around the world, here’s a little secret from this Utah mom: the outdoors in Utah are even better in the summertime. The best news? You can start your summer adventures by visiting a place that locals feel lucky to have in our home state, Deer Valley Resort.

Deer ValleyⓇ is the perfect spot for premier lodging, outdoor sports, and fine dining. Let’s take a closer look at what you’re going to want to experience during a summer stay at Deer Valley Resort.

1. Book Deluxe Lodging Accommodations

Do yourself a favor and take advantage of lower summer rates and lodging packages by staying at one of the Deer Valley managed properties.

Why stay at Deer Valley Resort? Because you can enjoy a deluxe lodging experience at off-season rates, and your accommodations are nestled right in the mountains. This means you have access to hiking, mountain biking, and fine dining as soon as you step out your door.

The Mountain Activities Family Package is perfect for a quick summer getaway for the whole family. Book a two-bedroom condominium for two or more nights and receive 20% off your entire stay plus a $100 Deer Valley Mountain Activities Card. Packages vary each season and you can always check the Deer Valley website to see current package promotions.

2. Family Activities at Deer Valley

Awesome ski slopes in the winter translate into endless summer fun on some of the best mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding trails in the area.

Deer Valley Resort’s nearly 70 miles of biking and hiking trails are spread over six mountains and 2,000 acres. .

Hikers can ride up the Silver Lake Express, Sterling Express and Homestake Express chairlifts and explore miles of hiking trails. I personally enjoy the Sterling Express chairlift at Silver Lake (mid-mountain) where it’s possible to access the top of Bald Mountain. The views are unmatched and the hiking is fantastic. The best news? If you’re tired at the end of the day, you can take one of the chairlifts back to the base of the mountain.

When it comes to mountain biking, the variety of of trails provide something for everyone. Seasoned mountain bikers can enjoy more difficult trails like Deer Valley’s expert downhill flow trail, Tsunami. This trail includes 10-foot berms, 25-foot tabletops, and giant jumps. If you’re a mountain biking beginner or biking as a less experienced family, then start with a mountain bike coach and they will help you work your way up to the Holy Roller trail. Are you somewhere in between expert and novice? No problem. Warm up on Holy Roller and then take on the Tidal Wave trail.

3. Enjoy Fine Family Dining at Deer Valley

There is no need to travel far to find a great restaurant. Deer Valley goes above and beyond in the fine dining category.

The Brass Tag, located in Lodges at Deer Valley, is perfect to refuel the family after a busy day on the mountain. Popular dishes include the hand-pattied burger or the roasted pork chops.

Family Favorite: The oven-fired chimichurri chips.This dish is topped with gruyere cheese sauce, melted cheddar, fresh chimichurri, and applewood bacon. They are DELICIOUS.

Royal Street Café, in Silver Lake Lodge, (mid-mountain), is a great lunch spot for a midday break between activities. Adults can enjoy panini sandwiches, Deer Valley Turkey Chili, creative salads and specialty entrées, and more. Royal Street Café also offers a children’s menu.

Family Favorite: Dungeness Crab Tower with sauces of wasabi, ginger-soy and sweet chile.

Deer Valley Grocery~Café, located in the Snow Park area, is the perfect place to fuel up before or after standup paddleboarding on the lake next to the café. You can enjoy fresh roasted coffee and espresso drinks, soups, chili, salads made with local seasonal ingredients, panini sandwiches, and a lot more.     

Family Favorite: Lox Plate with smoked salmon, capers, whipped cream cheese, artisan lettuce, red onions, lemon, English cucumber, dill, toasted everything bagel.

4. Enjoy a Family-Friendly Concert at Deer Valley

Deer Valley is home to three unique concert series. The Deer Valley Concert Series and the Utah Symphony’s Deer Valley® Music Festival have a wonderful variety of well-known shows and artists. Grand Valley Bank Community Concert Series is perfect for a fun family night under the stars listening to up and coming bands and the best part is it’s free. Families are welcome to bring picnics, blankets and chairs less than nine inches high.  

Family Favorite: Order a Deluxe or Gourmet Picnic Bag from Deer Valley before 5 p.m. the day before the concert. 

Wrap Up

When you do Deer Valley right by staying on the mountain, enjoying hiking and mountain biking, and eating at top restaurants on the resort, your first summer vacation at Deer Valley is bound to become a recurring and family favorite vacation.

Originally written by Ashley Cummings for Deer Valley Resort.