Though the last few weeks have been mostly rainy in Park City, it’s necessary for my sanity to find the windows of at least partial sunshine to get out on the trail. My four-legged hiking partner feels the same way. Cholula alternates between full-body pouting and trying to hypnotize me into taking her out, sighing deep, disappointed sighs that break my heart.
I can only take so much before I’m loading her into the Subaru, double-checking that I have a ball cap (for the likely sprinkles that will fall) and extra towels (for muddy trail paws) in the back. Here are some lovely photographs from a few of our recent jaunts…in between storms!
Below the Utah Olympic Park, there are two trails we love. “Run-a-muk” is an official off-leash playground for dogs, with a trail that winds through a few acres of fully-fenced fun. Across the street, there’s an area that’s popular for cross-country skiing in winter and biking/running the rest of the year. Both have plenty of mouse-hunting opportunities for Cholula and aspens and wildflowers for her Mama to enjoy.
We recently visited the Toll Canyon trail in Summit Park, though it’s still a tad early (read: muddy) to fully enjoy the trek to the Love Tree. Because it’s down in a canyon, the trees haven’t started to green up as much as other trails, but the decorations on the tree always prompt a smile.
Rain brings life. The trail directly behind the house is not only green; it’s lined with happy yellow flowers. Some of the shrubs are also coming back, and you can’t beat the view.
On a weekday, we headed for the Armstrong Trail near Park City Mountain Resort. I’d hiked a small piece of it with some girlfriends last fall and wanted to explore further. At one point, the trail split and a sign for Dawn’s Trail told me it would lead me to the Spiro Trail in about a mile, which I knew would lead me back to the trailhead. I love unexpected discoveries like this loop; I could have researched the trails and had a definite plan, but there’s something wonderful about wandering. The loop led us up, across the last of the snow on a couple of ski runs and then down through aspens with newborn leaves fluttering in the breeze.
It feels like it’s been gray and wet for a year, but we’ll soon be planting our garden and slathering on sunblock and turning up the ceiling fans and wishing the outdoor dining table had a shade umbrella. Until then, I’ll get Cholula out when it’s semi-dry and remember that mud washes off. The fresh air is good for us both.
Trails featured: Run-a-Muk dog area, Basin Rec 5K/Olympic Park, Daybreaker section of 24-7, Toll Canyon, Armstrong/Dawn’s/Spiro. More information about Park City’s trails can be found here.
One year ago: John’s Garlicky Balsamic Vinaigrette.
the usual bliss 
I just love going through your hiking photos – it’s amazing that you live near such an extensive path of trails! You lucky dog you – and really, lucky dog. I live near the Shenandoah so theoretically I live next to an extensive path of trails as well. But dang it, my 18 month old has stopped me from hiking as much as I used to. It’s great to live vicariously through you!
Sometime soon you can bring your little one along with you!