Picture the sun dropping behind the Wasatch peaks, painting the sky in gold and rose. Below you, a stage glows against the mountainside. The crowd settles in — blankets spread, wine poured, mountain air carrying that clean high-altitude chill that makes you reach for your jacket and smile at the same time. Then the music starts. This is Concerts on the Slopes, and there is nothing else quite like it in Utah.
Organized by Park City Performing Arts at the Amphitheatre at Canyons Village, the 2026 season runs from July 10 through August 29 — eleven shows across seven weeks, anchored by two themed multi-night weekends that are already generating serious buzz. Whether you’re a country fan, an 80s devotee, a reggae lover, or just someone who appreciates world-class live music in an unforgettable mountain setting, this summer’s lineup has something worth making the trip for.
Concert on the Slopes at Canyons Village in Park City, Ut
🏔️ What Is Concerts on the Slopes?
Concerts on the Slopes is a ticketed outdoor summer music series held at the Amphitheatre at Canyons Village at Park City Mountain. It’s produced by Park City Performing Arts (formerly Park City Institute), a nonprofit arts organization that has been entertaining Utah communities since 1998.
⚠️ Heads up: Not all Canyons Village concerts are the same.
Canyons Village hosts several different summer music events — some free, some ticketed. Concerts on the Slopes is a ticketed series. Forum Fest (July 2–4) is free. Mountain Town Music events are also free. If you see a show at the Amphitheatre listed without a ticket price, it’s a different series. Always confirm at parkcityinstitute.org whether a show requires a ticket before you head up.
📍 Where Exactly Is the Amphitheatre?
First-timers often struggle to picture where the venue actually sits — it’s not a traditional indoor amphitheatre. The Amphitheatre at Canyons Village is an outdoor grass bowl carved into the base of the ski mountain, located at 4000 Canyons Resort Drive. If you know the village, here’s your landmark: it sits between the Red Pine Gondola and the Orange Bubble Express lift, directly across from the Grand Summit hotel. The surrounding ski runs form a natural bowl that creates surprisingly intimate acoustics — you can hear clearly from nearly anywhere on the lawn.
No gondola or lift is required to reach the venue. The Amphitheatre is at ground level at the base area, and it’s a flat, easy walk from every Canyons Village property. If you’re driving in, you park and walk — no lift, no cabriolet, no shuttle within the village needed.
Shows are held on select Fridays, Saturdays, and occasional Thursdays in July and August. Most performances begin at 7:00 PM, with gates opening at 6:15 PM. The concerts are family-friendly, general admission, and picnic-welcoming — you can bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages, spread out a blanket, and make an evening of it.
🎵 The Full 2026 Lineup & Schedule
The 2026 season opens July 10 with Grammy-nominated soul artist Allen Stone and closes August 29 with MAX and Marc E. Bassy. In between, you’ll find Southern rock legends, pop icons, reggae royalty, and alt-rock favorites. Two themed weekends — the 80s Weekend (July 24-26) and Country Weekend (Aug. 6-8) — anchor the season with back-to-back nights built around a single genre. Here’s the full picture:
🕖 All shows: 7:00 PM 🚪 Gates open: 6:15 PM Plan to arrive by 6:15–6:30 to claim your spot on the lawn
Date
Time
Artist
Genre
Known For
Fri, July 10
7:00 PM
Allen Stone
Soul / R&B / Funk
Grammy-nominated; toured with Chris Stapleton & Stevie Wonder
Fri, July 24 🎸 80s Weekend
7:00 PM
38 Special
Southern Rock
“Hold On Loosely,” “Caught Up in You” — 50 years of classic rock
Sat, July 25 🎸 80s Weekend
7:00 PM
Taylor Dayne & Exposé
80s Pop / Dance
“Tell It to My Heart,” “Love Will Lead You Back,” “Seasons Change”
Sun, July 26 🎸 80s Weekend
7:00 PM
Sawyer Brown
Country-Rock
Star Search winners; 40+ years of high-energy live performance
Fri, July 31
7:00 PM
The Psychedelic Furs
Post-Punk / Alternative
“Pretty in Pink,” “Love My Way,” “Heaven”
Sat, Aug 1
7:00 PM
Boney James
Smooth Jazz / R&B
Four Grammy nominations; best-selling contemporary jazz artist
Aug 6-8 🤠 Country Weekend
7:00 PM
Country Weekend Artists
Country
Three nights of country music under the stars — see official site for full artist lineup
Fri, Aug 14
7:00 PM
UB40 feat. Ali Campbell
Reggae / Pop
“Red Red Wine,” “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” “Kingston Town”
Sat, Aug 15
7:00 PM
Better Than Ezra, Vertical Horizon & Tonic
Alternative Rock
“Good,” “Everything You Want,” “If You Could Only See” — one epic night
Fri, Aug 21
7:00 PM
Maoli
Reggae / Island
Hawaiian reggae artist with a devoted following across the West
Fri, Aug 28
7:00 PM
Dylan Scott
Country
“My Girl,” “Nobody,” “This Town’s Been Too Good to Us” — back-to-back No. 1s in 2025
Sat, Aug 29
7:00 PM
MAX with Marc E. Bassy
Pop
Multi-Platinum pop artist; “Lights Down Low,” “Gibberish”
Three Nights. Three Legends. One Mountain Backdrop.
The 80s Weekend is the centerpiece of the 2026 season — a back-to-back-to-back run of Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night shows featuring artists who defined a decade. If you’ve ever wanted to relive the best of 80s rock, pop, and country in one of America’s most beautiful outdoor settings, this is your weekend.
🎸 Friday, July 24 — 38 Special
Fifty years in, 38 Special is still firing on all cylinders. The Southern rock band behind “Hold On Loosely,” “Caught Up in You,” and “Second Chance” has sold more than 20 million albums and continues to play over 100 shows a year. Their 2026 tour supports Milestone, their first studio album in over two decades. Expect a full-throttle, hook-heavy show that sounds exactly like it did blasting from car stereos in 1982 — except the mountain views are significantly better.
🎵 Saturday, July 25 — Taylor Dayne & Exposé
Two of the 80s and 90s’ most iconic female acts share the stage for one of the season’s most anticipated nights. Taylor Dayne’s debut single “Tell It to My Heart” made her an overnight international star in 1987, and she followed it with 17 Top 20 singles, three Grammy nominations, and more than 75 million records sold. Joining her is Exposé — the Miami-born freestyle group that became the first act ever to score four Top 10 hits from a debut album, with classics like “Come Go With Me,” “Point of No Return,” and “Seasons Change.” This is a Saturday night at Canyons Village you don’t want to miss.
🎶 Sunday, July 26 — Sawyer Brown
Sawyer Brown closes out the 80s Weekend with the kind of high-energy, grassroots show that has defined their four decades on the road. They burst onto the national scene winning Star Search alongside Kenny Rogers and never looked back. Their blend of country storytelling and rock-and-roll swagger — think Alabama meets the Rolling Stones — translates perfectly to an outdoor mountain stage. This is a band that has always played like the crowd is the whole world.
“The 80s Weekend is exactly the kind of experience we love — we booked three nights at Sundial Lodge, walked to every show, and barely needed our car the entire trip. Pure magic.”
The Country Weekend is Park City’s version of a mountain music festival — three consecutive evenings of authentic country at one of Utah’s most breathtaking outdoor venues. With Dylan Scott headlining August 28 and country acts filling the Aug. 6-8 slot, country fans have multiple reasons to plan a summer visit.
Country music and mountain settings are a natural pairing — there’s something about wide open skies, fresh air, and the honest storytelling of a great country song that just works. The Country Weekend brings that experience to the base of the Wasatch Range, with artists who can fill an outdoor amphitheatre and make it feel like a campfire all at once.
The full Country Weekend artist lineup will be confirmed at the official Park City Performing Arts site. What we can tell you is that the format mirrors the 80s Weekend — three nights, progressive energy, and a crowd that comes back all three evenings. Book your Canyons Village stay early. Country Weekend trips tend to sell out.
🎤 Plus: Dylan Scott — Friday, August 28
If you love country but can only make one show, Dylan Scott on August 28 is a strong choice. Despite a multi-Platinum career and back-to-back No. 1 singles in 2025 — the Gold-certified “Boys Back Home” and the Platinum-certified “This Town’s Been Too Good to Us” — Scott plays every show like he’s still got something to prove. His debut hit “My Girl” made him a household name, and his current single “What He’ll Never Have” is climbing the charts. A warm August evening at Canyons Village with Scott on stage is exactly what a Park City summer is made for.
Concerts on the Slopes is a ticketed series — this isn’t a free village event, but it’s priced accessibly. Tickets typically start around $11-12 for general admission and vary by show and artist. Some of the higher-profile acts and themed weekend nights may carry premium pricing, so it’s worth checking early if you’re targeting a specific show.
All tickets are available exclusively through the Park City Performing Arts official site. We recommend buying as soon as you know your dates — popular shows and themed weekends sell out well in advance.
A few other things worth knowing before you arrive:
Most shows begin at 7:00 PM — gates open at 6:15 PM; plan to arrive by 6:15-6:30 to find your spot
Seating is general admission lawn — bring your own low-back chair (seat height under 9″) or a thick blanket
Outside food and non-alcoholic beverages are welcome — this is a picnic-friendly venue
The venue has its own food vendors and concessions at most shows
Pets are not permitted inside the concert venue
Light rain? Shows typically continue. Severe weather may cause delays — follow @concertsontheslopes on Instagram for real-time updates
Accessibility: designated viewing areas are available for guests with mobility needs
🚌 Getting Here in 2026: Parking, Transit & What’s Changed
🚧 2026 Construction Update — Important If You’ve Been Before
The Cabriolet lift has been retired and is being replaced by the new enclosed Canyons Village Skyway gondola, which opens after summer 2026. The parking garage is also closed during construction. Neither the Cabriolet nor the parking garage will be available during summer 2026 concerts — but your options are straightforward, and if you’re staying in Canyons Village, none of this affects you at all.
Lots 3 and 4 at Canyons Village are free for summer 2026 concert-goers. These surface lots are open throughout the construction period and provide the easiest drive-in option for those coming from outside the village. A free shuttle runs from the lots to the base area where the Amphitheatre is located. For detailed lot maps and directions, the official Concerts on the Slopes parking page has current information. Arrive early for popular and themed weekend shows — lots fill up.
If you’re driving from Salt Lake City, our SLC to Park City transportation guide covers all route options including rideshare, shuttle, and rental car.
🚌 Free Public Transit
Park City and Summit County both run free bus service to Canyons Village throughout the summer. The Canyons Village Transit Hub connects to Main Street, Deer Valley, and Kimball Junction — no car needed. Buses run in the evenings, though post-show timing can vary; check the Park City Transit schedule for the last bus of the night on your show date before you go.
🚗 Rideshare (Uber / Lyft)
Both Uber and Lyft serve Canyons Village reliably. Drop-off at the base area is easy. Post-show pickup can take a few extra minutes on busy nights — request your ride before the encore ends and you’ll be on your way while the crowd is still applauding.
🚶 Staying in Canyons Village? You Don’t Need Any of This.
If you’re booked at one of our Canyons Village properties, the Amphitheatre is a short, flat walk from your front door — no car, no parking, no shuttle. You walk to the show and walk home. See exact distances below in the lodging section.
🎒 What to Bring: The Essential Packing List
Mountain evenings in Park City can surprise you. It’s 80°F at noon and 58°F by 9 PM — and that swing happens fast once the sun drops behind the ridgeline. A few smart additions to your bag will make the difference between a great night and a cold, uncomfortable one.
🪑 Low-back folding chair (seat height under 9″) or a thick blanket
🧥 Light jacket or fleece — essential after sunset, even in July and August
☀️ Sunscreen — the show starts at golden hour; UV exposure at 7,000 feet is real
🍷 Picnic supplies — non-alcoholic beverages, snacks, a light meal if you didn’t eat beforehand
💧 Reusable water bottle — mountain air is dry; stay hydrated
💳 Cash or card for food vendors, drinks, and village shops
👟 Comfortable walking shoes — the venue grounds are grassy and uneven in spots
📱 Your ticket — digital or printed, double-check before you leave
Staying at a Canyons Village property? You can head back to your room between dinner and showtime to grab anything you forgot — no car, no parking, no problem.
📅 Plan Your Concert Weekend: A Sample Itinerary
One of the best arguments for staying right in Canyons Village is how seamlessly the concert fits into a full mountain day. Here’s what a perfect concert weekend can look like when your lodging is a five-minute walk from the stage.
🎿 Friday: Arrive & Opening Night
3:00-4:00 PM — Check into your Canyons Village property, drop your bags, take in the views
5:30 PM — Dinner at one of the Canyons Village restaurants — Red Tail Grill for a full sit-down, Drafts Burger Bar for something casual
6:15 PM — Gates open — stroll to the Amphitheatre, stake out your spot on the lawn
7:00 PM — Showtime
9:30 PM — Walk back to your room. While others are sitting in post-show traffic, you’re already in your hot tub.
🚵 Saturday: Mountain Day + Night Two
Morning — Mountain biking or hiking from Canyons Village. Check out our guide to the 7 best hikes in Park City for trail options close to the village
Afternoon — Grab coffee, browse the village shops, or hop on the free bus to Main Street for a few hours of exploring
Evening — Repeat the Friday formula: dinner, stroll, showtime
Return for the Sunday evening show — for 80s Weekend guests, Sawyer Brown closes out the weekend on a high note
Want to see more of Park City beyond Canyons Village? Our Park City things to do guide covers everything from summer festivals to world-class hiking.
🍽️ Fuel Up Before the Show: Canyons Village Dining
A great dinner before the concert is part of the ritual. Canyons Village has a solid lineup of dining options at the base area — enough variety that you can do something different every night of a multi-night stay. Here’s a quick guide to help you plan:
🎆 Don’t Miss Forum Fest: Free July 4th Weekend at Canyons Village
🎇
Extend Your Trip — Forum Fest Runs July 2-4
Concerts on the Slopes kicks off July 10, but Canyons Village’s summer celebrations start even earlier. Forum Fest is a free, three-day community event over the 4th of July weekend featuring nightly concerts, fireworks, a drone show, a kids’ area, food and drinks, and mechanical bull riding. It’s a completely different experience from the ticketed concert series — rowdier, freer, and a great reason to arrive a week early.
Combining Forum Fest weekend (July 2-4) with a Concerts on the Slopes show the following week means nearly two weeks of mountain entertainment without ever leaving Canyons Village. Visit Forum Fest for details and the full holiday events calendar.
🏨 Stay Steps from the Stage: Canyons Village Lodging
There’s a reason our guests who attend Concerts on the Slopes tell us it becomes an annual tradition: staying in Canyons Village transforms a single concert into a full mountain experience. You walk to the show. You walk home. You wake up the next morning with hiking trails out your door and a great restaurant five minutes away. We’ve been helping guests do exactly this for 26 years, and we know which properties put you in the best position to make the most of every moment.
🚶 How Far Is the Walk? Exact Distances to the Amphitheatre
The Amphitheatre is at the base area — flat, paved, no lift required. Here’s how our closest properties stack up:
All distances are approximate walking distances along flat village paths. No gondola or lift required to reach the Amphitheatre from any of these properties.
Explore Canyons Village Rentals
Canyons Village is the modern base area of Park City Mountain Resort, anchored by two gondolas and perfectly positioned between historic Main Street and Kimball Junction. The free Canyons Village Transit Hub puts every corner of town within easy reach.
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Ski-In / Ski-Out
Sundial Lodge
View Property →
Ski-In / Ski-Out
LIFT Park City
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Ski-In / Ski-Out
Apex Residences
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Ski-In / Ski-Out
Westgate Park City
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Canyons Village
Canyon Haus
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Ski-In / Ski-Out
Vintage on the Strand
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Canyons Village
Red Pine Condos
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Canyons Village
Silverado Lodge
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Canyons Village
Hidden Creek Condos
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🏅 Why Book with All Seasons Resort Lodging?
We’ve been part of the Park City community for 26 years. That means we know when the good spots go fast, which restaurants to call ahead for, and how to make a concert weekend run without a single hitch. Every property in our portfolio has been carefully selected — you’re not just booking a place to sleep, you’re booking the right base for a mountain experience worth coming back for year after year.
Concerts on the Slopes is produced by Park City Performing Arts (formerly known as Park City Institute), a Utah nonprofit arts organization that has been active since 1998. The series runs in partnership with Canyons Village Management Association and Park City Mountain.
Where is the venue, exactly?
Shows are held at the Amphitheatre at Canyons Village at Park City Mountain — 4000 Canyons Resort Drive, Park City, UT 84098. In the village, it’s located between the Red Pine Gondola and the Orange Bubble Express lift, directly across from the Grand Summit hotel. It’s an outdoor grass bowl at the base of the ski runs. No gondola or lift is required — it’s at ground level and an easy walk from every Canyons Village property.
Do I need to take the Cabriolet or a gondola to reach the Amphitheatre?
No — the Amphitheatre is at ground level at the base area; no lift is required to get there. And in 2026, the Cabriolet is no longer operating. It’s being replaced by the new enclosed Canyons Village Skyway gondola, which opens after summer 2026. If you’re staying in Canyons Village, you walk directly to the venue. If you’re driving in, you park in Lots 3 or 4 and walk from there. Full construction details here.
Where do I park? Is it free?
Lots 3 and 4 at Canyons Village are free for summer 2026 concert-goers. Note that the parking garage is closed during construction this season. A free shuttle runs from the surface lots to the base area. Arrive early for popular shows — lots fill fast. See the official Concerts on the Slopes parking page for current maps and directions.
Is this a ticketed event, or is it free like other Canyons Village concerts?
Concerts on the Slopes is a ticketed series. This is different from Forum Fest (July 2–4, free) and Mountain Town Music events (also free), which happen at the same venue. Always confirm at parkcityinstitute.org before you head up. Tickets typically start around $11-12 for general admission.
How much do tickets cost?
Tickets typically start around $11-12 for general admission and vary by show and artist. Themed weekend nights and high-profile headliners may carry higher pricing. All tickets are available through the official Park City Performing Arts site.
What time do shows start? When do gates open?
Most shows begin at 7:00 PM. Gates typically open at 6:15 PM. Plan to arrive by 6:15-6:30 to find a good spot on the lawn before the best areas fill up.
Can I bring food and drinks?
Yes — Concerts on the Slopes is picnic-friendly. You’re welcome to bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages. Food vendors and concessions are also available at most shows. Alcoholic beverages from outside the venue are not permitted.
Are pets allowed?
Pets are not permitted inside the concert venue. Please leave your furry friends at your lodging for the evening.
What should I wear?
Dress in layers. Park City summer evenings drop noticeably in temperature once the sun sets behind the mountains — even in July and August. A light jacket or fleece is essential. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as the venue grounds are grassy and uneven in spots.
Canyons Village properties are the clear choice. Our four closest properties to the Amphitheatre: Sundial Lodge (530 ft, ~2 min walk — note $25/night parking fee), Westgate Park City (600 ft, ~2-3 min, free parking), Canyon Haus (730 ft, ~3 min, free parking), and LIFT Park City (850 ft, ~3-4 min, free parking). Call us at 888-575-2775 and we’ll match you to the right property for your group and budget.
The Stage Is Set. Your Mountain Retreat Is Waiting.
Concert weekends at Canyons Village fill up fast — especially the 80s Weekend and Country Weekend. Don’t plan your trip around whatever’s left. Browse our Canyons Village properties now and secure the right base for your 2026 summer experience.
We’ve called Park City home for 26 years. We’d love to help you fall in love with it too.
Swap out those ski boots for some dancing shoes. Spring at Canyons Village means the mountain is still open and the live music is cranking — and this season, we think the combination is just about perfect.
The Canyons Village Spring Concert Series, brought to you by Kona Big Wave, returns each Saturday in March and April with free live music on the Canyons Village stage. Whether you’re wrapping up a bluebird powder day or simply soaking in the last weeks of ski season, there’s no better way to close out a Saturday than with cold drinks, mountain air, and great bands.
Every Saturday — March & April
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Canyons Village Stage — Free & Complimentary
🎸 What Is the Canyons Village Spring Concert Series?
Every spring, as the days grow longer and the snow starts to soften, Canyons Village transforms into something more than just a ski resort base area. The Spring Concert Series is a free, outdoor live music event held on the Canyons Village stage — and it’s one of those local traditions that guests stumble upon and immediately wish they’d planned around.
Presented by Kona Big Wave, each performance runs from 3 to 5 p.m., right when the lifts are winding down for the day. The timing is intentional. You ski, you ride, you warm up with good company — and then the music starts. It’s a distinctly Park City way to spend a Saturday afternoon.
🍺
Brought to You by Kona Big Wave
The Spring Concert Series is sponsored by Kona Big Wave, which means cold beers are part of the equation. Grab one, find a spot near the stage, and let the afternoon happen exactly as it should.
📅 Spring Concert Series Schedule
Here’s the full lineup for the 2025 season. Dates and artists are subject to change, so we recommend confirming closer to your visit.
Date
Artist
Time
Location
Saturday, March 7
The Fox Brothers
3:00 – 5:00 PM
Canyons Village Stage
Saturday, March 14
The Pickpockets
3:00 – 5:00 PM
Canyons Village Stage
Saturday, March 21
The Last Light
3:00 – 5:00 PM
Canyons Village Stage
Saturday, April 4
Candy Shop
3:00 – 5:00 PM
Canyons Village Stage
Saturday, April 11
Kris Lager
3:00 – 5:00 PM
Canyons Village Stage
Saturday, April 18
Good Morning Bedlam
3:00 – 5:00 PM
Canyons Village Stage
Six Saturdays. Six bands. All free. That’s a pretty good deal for a ski trip that’s already delivering on the mountain.
🏔️ Why Spring at Canyons Village Is Worth Planning Around
Spring skiing at Park City Mountain gets overlooked by guests who fixate on the deep-powder months. That’s their loss — and honestly, your gain. Here’s what spring at Canyons Village actually looks like: longer days, softer snow, fewer lift lines, and now, live music on Saturday afternoons. The crowds thin out, the prices often follow, and the experience of skiing in the morning and sitting outside in the sunshine with a Kona Big Wave in hand is genuinely hard to beat.
Why spring at Canyons Village delivers:
✅ Warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours on the mountain
✅ Softer “corn snow” conditions ideal for cruising groomers
✅ Shorter lift lines compared to peak winter weekends
✅ Free live music every Saturday — the Spring Concert Series
✅ Full access to Canyons Village dining, shops, and amenities
✅ Often better lodging rates than January and February
🎵 Getting There & Getting Around
If you’re staying at one of our Canyons Village properties, you’re already there — the stage is steps away from the base area. For guests staying elsewhere in Park City, the free Canyons Village Transit Hub connects you to Main Street, Deer Valley, and Kimball Junction, making it easy to get to the concert without worrying about parking or driving.
Parking at Canyons Village is available, but on concert Saturdays, letting the free transit do the work is the move. Drop in, enjoy the show, and head out without the hassle.
🏡 Where to Stay for the Spring Concert Series
We’ve been managing vacation rentals at Canyons Village for over 26 years, and we’ll tell you plainly: if you’re coming for a spring weekend that includes the concert series, staying right at the village is the way to go. You’re on the mountain in the morning and at the stage in the afternoon — no commute, no logistics, just the trip.
Here are a few of our Canyons Village properties that put you right in the middle of it all:
⭐ Guest Favorite
Sundial Lodge
Ski-in/Ski-out | Heart of Canyons Village
Positioned at the center of Canyons Village with ski-in/ski-out access to the Red Pine Gondola. When the concert wraps at 5 p.m., your room is a two-minute walk away.
Modern ski-in/ski-out lodging adjacent to the Sunrise Gondola at Canyons Village. A short stroll to the stage and everything the village has to offer on a concert Saturday.
Right in the heart of Canyons Village, steps from the lifts and the Forum base area. Perfect for a spring weekend — ski in the morning, concert in the afternoon.
Yes — the Canyons Village Spring Concert Series is complimentary. No tickets, no cover. Just show up and enjoy the music.
Do I need a ski pass to attend the concerts?
No. The concerts take place at the Canyons Village base area, which is publicly accessible. You do not need a lift ticket or ski pass to attend.
What if the weather is bad?
The concert schedule is subject to change. We recommend checking with Park City Mountain Resort closer to your visit for any updates or cancellations due to weather.
Where exactly is the Canyons Village stage?
The stage is located in the Canyons Village Forum base area — the central hub of the village. If you’ve parked or taken transit to Canyons Village, you’ll find it easily at the heart of the base area.
Can I get food and drinks at the concerts?
Absolutely. The Canyons Village base area has multiple dining and bar options open through the afternoon. The concerts are sponsored by Kona Big Wave, so you can expect cold beers to be part of the scene.
How do I get to Canyons Village without driving?
The free Canyons Village Transit Hub connects the village to Main Street Park City, Deer Valley, and Kimball Junction at no cost. It runs frequently and is the easiest way to get in and out on a busy concert Saturday.
Make It a Spring Weekend to Remember
Great skiing in the morning. Live music in the afternoon. Canyons Village in the spring is a combination that’s hard to argue with. Browse our lodging options and lock in your dates before they’re gone.
26+ years of local expertise — your Canyons Village spring trip starts here.
The moment you pull into Canyons Village and glide toward the mountain, something will feel different — better. A lot better. Park City Mountain Resort has officially announced the replacement of the beloved Cabriolet with a brand-new, fully enclosed 10-person gondola called the Canyons Village Skyway, and we think it’s one of the most exciting upgrades to hit the base area in years.
Whether you’ve been visiting Canyons Village for decades or you’re planning your first trip, here’s everything you need to know about the new Skyway, the final phase of the parking structure, and what to expect during the 2025–26 construction season.
Construction Starts: March 30, 2026
10-Person Enclosed Gondola Cabins
Mid-Station Access for Homeowners & Guests
👋 Say Goodbye to the Cabriolet — and Hello to the Canyons Village Skyway
The Cabriolet has been a Canyons Village icon — those open-air chairs ferrying skiers and summer visitors from the parking area up to the Forum base area. But open-air also means cold, wind-exposed, and occasionally rain-soaked. The new Canyons Village Skyway changes all of that.
Designed to elevate the entire guest arrival experience, the Skyway connects the new parking structure directly to the Canyons Village Forum and the surrounding base area. Think of it as your first taste of mountain hospitality — before you even click into your bindings.
🚡
What Makes the Skyway Different?
The Canyons Village Skyway isn’t just a gondola upgrade — it’s a reimagined arrival experience. Enclosed 10-person cabins with floor-to-ceiling windows mean you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Wasatch Range in comfort, rain or shine, powder day or sunny summer afternoon.
🏔️ Key Features of the New Canyons Village Skyway
Here’s what the new gondola brings to the table — and why it’s a genuine game-changer for guests staying at Canyons Village:
Feature
Cabriolet (Old)
Canyons Village Skyway (New)
Cabin Type
Open-air chairlift
Enclosed 10-person gondola
Windows
None
Floor-to-ceiling glass
Weather Protection
None
Fully enclosed, all-season
Mid-Station Access
No
Yes — homeowners, lodging partners & guests
Parking Connection
Surface lots
Direct from new parking structure
Capacity per Cabin
4–6 (open chair)
10 persons
The mid-station addition is worth highlighting on its own. It gives homeowners, lodging partners like us, and guests mid-village access that simply didn’t exist before — a meaningful quality-of-life upgrade for anyone staying in the heart of Canyons Village.
🏗️ The Final Phase of the Canyons Village Parking Structure
The Skyway announcement comes alongside equally big news on the parking front. TCFC, the Canyons Village master developer, is completing the final three levels of the new Canyons Village Parking Structure. The first two levels opened successfully this past winter season, and the full structure is a significant step forward for the village experience.
What the completed parking structure delivers:
✅ Consolidates and replaces scattered surface parking throughout the village
✅ Provides covered, convenient parking with direct access to the Canyons Village Skyway
✅ Connects seamlessly to transit options
✅ Improves traffic flow and overall accessibility for all guests
✅ Creates a more polished, welcoming arrival experience from the moment you park
Together, the Skyway and the parking structure represent a thoughtful, coordinated investment in the Canyons Village guest experience — from the moment you arrive to the moment you step onto the mountain.
📅 What to Expect During Construction (Spring & Summer 2026)
Construction on both the Skyway and the final parking structure levels begins March 30, 2026. This is important to know if you’re planning a spring or summer visit to Canyons Village. Here’s what you can expect during the construction period:
The entire parking garage will be closed to the public during construction. Lower Village to Upper Village lift access via the Cabriolet won’t be available until the new Skyway opens.
That said, Canyons Village remains fully accessible. You’ve got good options:
🅿️ Parking During Construction
Surface Lots 2–4 Free Parking
Access Method Shuttle + Walking
Parking Fee No Charge
🚌 Transit Options
Park City Transit Fully Available
Summit County Transit Fully Available
Cost Free
If you’re staying at one of our Canyons Village properties, you’re already ahead of the game — many of our lodging options put you within walking distance of the base area, which means parking and transit logistics become a non-issue. The Canyons Village Transit Hub also connects you to Main Street, Deer Valley, and Kimball Junction for free, making it easy to explore all of Park City without a car.
🏡 Staying at Canyons Village? Here’s Why This Matters for Your Trip
We’ve been managing vacation rentals at Canyons Village for over 26 years. We’ve watched this village grow from a more modest ski base into one of the most dynamic mountain resort communities in the American West. And we can tell you — this upgrade is a big deal.
The Skyway and parking structure aren’t just construction projects. They’re part of a longer-term vision to make Canyons Village feel like the world-class destination it already is. Enclosed gondola access, covered parking, improved traffic flow — these are the kinds of improvements that make the difference between a good trip and a great one.
If you’re considering a Canyons Village visit once the Skyway opens, here are a few of our favorite properties that will benefit most from the new arrival experience:
⭐ Guest Favorite
Sundial Lodge
Ski-in/Ski-out | Heart of Canyons Village
Positioned in the heart of Canyons Village with ski-in/ski-out access to the Red Pine Gondola. When the Skyway opens, arrival gets even smoother — park, board the Skyway, and you’re at your doorstep.
Luxury ski-in/ski-out condominiums at Canyons Village. The new Skyway mid-station provides even more convenient access for guests and homeowners throughout mid-village.
Ski-in/ski-out next to the Sunrise Gondola at Canyons Village. A natural complement to the new Skyway arrival experience — get on the mountain faster, and return home easier.
Canyon Haus puts you right in the heart of Canyons Village, steps from the lifts and the Forum base area. Once the Skyway opens, your guests will enjoy one of the most seamless arrivals in the village.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About the Canyons Village Skyway
When will the Canyons Village Skyway open?
Construction begins March 30, 2026. An official opening date for the completed Skyway has not been announced yet. We’ll update this post as details become available.
Can I still visit Canyons Village during construction?
Absolutely. Surface Lots 2–4 remain open with free parking, and both Park City and Summit County transit service continues to operate normally throughout construction. Shuttle service from the surface lots is provided.
Will the parking garage be open during construction?
No — the entire parking garage will be closed to the public during the construction period. Plan to use Surface Lots 2–4 or public transit for your visit.
What happened to the Cabriolet?
The open-air Cabriolet chairlift is being retired and replaced by the fully enclosed Canyons Village Skyway gondola. The new gondola accommodates 10 passengers per cabin, offers floor-to-ceiling windows, and includes a new mid-station stop for improved mid-village access.
Will Canyons Village lodging guests be affected?
Guests staying at ski-in/ski-out properties in Canyons Village will have minimal disruption since they access the mountain directly from their accommodations. For guests who drive to the village, surface lot parking with shuttle access is available throughout construction. Free public transit also connects Canyons Village to the broader Park City area.
Is this a permanent improvement?
Yes. The Canyons Village Skyway and the completed parking structure represent permanent infrastructure improvements to Canyons Village, developed in partnership with TCFC, the village’s master developer.
Ready to Experience the New Canyons Village?
When the Canyons Village Skyway opens, arriving at the mountain will feel as good as skiing it. Browse our Canyons Village lodging now and be among the first guests to experience the new arrival experience.
26+ years of Canyons Village expertise — at your service.
🌎 Earth Day 2026 · April 25 · Free Event
Santa Fe Earth Day 2026: Events, Eco-Adventures & the Perfect Spring Weekend
A free festival at Railyard Park, the Farmers Market next door, native plant hikes, and a city that has genuinely earned Earth Day. Here’s everything you need to celebrate it right — and where to stay.
🌱 Free Railyard Park Festival — April 25 🛒 Farmers Market Same Morning 🏡 Fort Marcy & Quail Run Vacation Rentals
Close your eyes for a moment. Picture waking up to the scent of piñon smoke drifting through crisp April air, stepping outside to find the Sangre de Cristo Mountains lit up in early morning gold, and knowing that today you’re celebrating Earth Day in one of the most sustainably committed cities in America. That’s Santa Fe in late April — and it’s a combination that feels less like a coincidence and more like a perfect match.
Most people don’t know this, but Santa Fe earned LEED for Cities Gold Certification in 2020 — one of the highest sustainability honors a city can receive. The city has a formal commitment to carbon neutrality by 2040, with a 25-year sustainability plan and 91 specific strategies already in motion. Adobe architecture, native plant landscapes, and water conservation have been woven into Santa Fe’s DNA for centuries. When a city already lives these values every day, Earth Day feels less like a reminder and more like a celebration.
Whether you’re a local planning to mark the occasion or a visitor building a spring getaway around something that matters, this guide covers the main event, what else to do that weekend, a ready-to-use itinerary, and where to stay to make the most of it all.
🌱 Earth Day 2026 at Railyard Park — The Main Event
The centerpiece of Santa Fe’s Earth Day celebration is a free, family-friendly festival hosted by the Railyard Park Conservancy and more than 20 community partners. It takes place in the wide-open green space of Railyard Park — a fitting venue for a day dedicated to the planet.
Detail
Info
📅 Date
Saturday, April 25, 2026
🕙 Time
10:00am – 2:00pm
📍 Location
Railyard Park, 740 Cerrillos Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87505
💵 Admission
Free and open to the public
🌿 Hosted By
Railyard Park Conservancy + 20+ community partners
🅿️ Parking
Railyard lot (small fee) + metered street parking via ParkMobile app
Think of this less like a formal event and more like a community gathering that happens to be really, really fun. Activities span something for everyone — Graze Days (yes, sheep and goats grazing in the park!), live music, seed ball making, worm fun, kids’ nature play, face painting, a stilt walker, guided plant tours, and a food truck serving sustenance between adventures. The City of Santa Fe’s Office of Economic Development sponsors the event, which speaks to how seriously this city takes its annual Earth Day commitment.
🐾 Dogs welcome! Railyard Park is dog-friendly. Bring your pup along for Graze Days — watching them react to the grazing sheep is its own kind of entertainment.
🛒 Start Your Morning at the Farmers Market
Here’s a Santa Fe insider tip that most visitors miss entirely: the Santa Fe Farmers Market runs every Saturday morning from 8:00am to 1:00pm at the Railyard Pavilion — just steps from the Earth Day event grounds. That means you can arrive at 8am, spend two leisurely hours shopping local produce and regional foods, then walk directly into the Earth Day celebration as it kicks off at 10am. All without moving your car.
💡
The Perfect Double Morning
Arrive at the Railyard at 8am for the Farmers Market. Grab a coffee and a breakfast burrito from a vendor, fill a reusable bag with locally grown produce, then transition straight into the Earth Day festival at 10am — same location, no driving. It’s one of Santa Fe’s great Saturday morning combinations, and almost nobody plans for it intentionally.
The Santa Fe Farmers Market is one of the largest and most celebrated growers’ markets in the country, with over 150 local vendors selling fresh produce, artisan cheeses, honey, New Mexican chile, baked goods, and more. Everything is grown and made in Northern New Mexico. On Earth Day weekend, it feels especially meaningful.
“For a sustainability-minded community like Santa Fe, Earth Day is more a power surge of ongoing efforts than a shallow and short-lived kumbaya with Mother Nature.”
🌵 Why Santa Fe Is the Right City for Earth Day
It’s one thing to attend an Earth Day event. It’s another to celebrate it in a place that has genuinely earned the occasion. Santa Fe is that place.
The city received LEED for Cities Gold Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council in 2020 — a framework that evaluates everything from energy use and water conservation to transportation and community health. Carbon-free sources already power more than half of Santa Fe’s energy supply, and the city is actively working toward carbon neutrality by 2040 through a 91-strategy sustainability plan.
But sustainability in Santa Fe isn’t just a policy document. It’s baked into the landscape itself. Adobe architecture — the thick earthen walls that define Santa Fe’s iconic look — has always been a form of passive climate control, naturally regulating indoor temperature without heavy energy demands. The city’s commitment to native plants, water conservation, and protecting the high-desert ecosystem reflects a stewardship ethic that predates any modern sustainability movement by centuries.
🏆 LEED for Cities Gold Certification (2020) — One of the highest sustainability ratings a city can earn, recognizing Santa Fe’s energy, water, transportation, and community health performance.
🌱 Carbon Neutral by 2040 — Santa Fe’s formal goal, backed by a 25-year plan with 91 active strategies. Carbon-free sources already power more than 51% of the city’s energy.
🐝 1,000+ Native Bee Species — New Mexico is home to a quarter of the nation’s entire native bee diversity. The Railyard Park itself is designed to support pollinators and native grasses.
🧱 Adobe Architecture — Santa Fe’s signature earthen walls have regulated indoor temperature passively for 400 years — sustainability by design, long before the word existed.
💧 Water Conservation Culture — At 7,000 feet in the high desert, water stewardship isn’t an initiative — it’s a way of life, built into landscaping, building codes, and community values.
🥾 More Eco-Inspired Things to Do That Weekend
Earth Day in Santa Fe isn’t a single afternoon — it’s a weekend worth savoring. Here are the experiences we recommend building your trip around.
🌸 Santa Fe Botanical Garden — Sunday Morning Sanctuary
Located on Museum Hill just a short drive from the Plaza, the Santa Fe Botanical Garden is one of the most quietly special places in the city. The 19-acre garden features native and drought-adapted plants specifically chosen to demonstrate what’s achievable in a high-desert region of scarce water. Three distinct areas anchor the experience: the Orchard Gardens with a native sculpture trail, the Ojos y Manos ethnobotanical garden exploring the shared history of humans and plants in Northern New Mexico, and the Piñon-Juniper Woodland that puts you right in the heart of Santa Fe’s natural landscape. The garden opens for its peak season in April, daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
🏔️ Hike into the High Desert
Santa Fe’s trails are extraordinary, and late April is one of the best times to be on them — before summer heat arrives, with wildflowers waking up and the mountains still carrying traces of snow at elevation.
🌿 Santa Fe Canyon Preserve — An easy 1.3-mile loop through native riparian habitat with interpretive signs. Perfect for families or anyone wanting a gentle connection with the landscape.
⛰️ Atalaya Trail — A moderate climb with sweeping panoramic views of the city and mountains. Worth every step.
🐦 Randall Davey Audubon Center — Birding, a nature discovery area, and a seed library. Over 190 bird species have been spotted here — a natural extension of the Earth Day spirit.
🎨 Explore the Railyard Arts District
After the Earth Day event, don’t rush away from the Railyard. The surrounding arts district is one of the most vibrant in the Southwest, with contemporary galleries, SITE Santa Fe, the Vladem Contemporary, and independent studios all within easy walking distance. On Sunday, the Railyard Artisan Market runs from 10:00am to 3:00pm — handmade jewelry, ceramics, textiles, and more from New Mexico artisans.
📅 Your Earth Day Weekend Itinerary
Earth Day is Wednesday, April 22 — but the Railyard Park celebration lands on Saturday the 25th, which makes this a natural long weekend trip. Here’s how we’d plan it.
Day
Time
Activity
Friday
Afternoon
Arrive and check in. Walk the historic Plaza, browse the Palace of the Governors portals
Friday
Evening
Canyon Road gallery stroll, dinner at a local New Mexican restaurant
Saturday
8:00am
🛒 Santa Fe Farmers Market at the Railyard — shop local, grab breakfast
Saturday
10:00am – 2:00pm
🌎 Earth Day at Railyard Park — free event, live music, seed ball making, nature play
Saturday
Afternoon
Railyard Arts District, SITE Santa Fe or Vladem Contemporary
Sunday
Morning
🌸 Santa Fe Botanical Garden on Museum Hill — native plants, walking trails, sculpture
Sunday
Midday
Brunch, Canyon Road or Meow Wolf House of Eternal Return
Sunday
Afternoon
Depart refreshed and reconnected
April is shoulder season in Santa Fe — restaurants are more accessible, galleries are less crowded, and the city moves at a pace that actually lets you breathe it in. You get all of Santa Fe’s magic with a fraction of the summer rush.
🏡 Ready to Make Earth Day Weekend a Real Santa Fe Stay?
Our local team is here seven days a week to help you find the perfect condo or home base for your Earth Day weekend. Browse our Santa Fe vacation rentals below.
After a day at Earth Day and the Farmers Market, there’s nothing better than coming home to a full kitchen stocked with your market finds, a kiva fireplace for cool April evenings, and a private balcony with mountain views. We may be a little biased — but we think the best Earth Day base camp in Santa Fe is one of ours.
Perched on a peaceful hillside above the historic Plaza, Fort Marcy Condos put you just a 10-minute walk (downhill) from the heart of Santa Fe — with a free shuttle for the return trip. Choose from 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom condos with full kitchens, authentic Southwestern decor, private balconies with mountain-framed views, and cozy kiva fireplaces. The indoor pool and hot tub are perfect for unwinding after a full day at the Railyard.
Bring home Farmers Market produce and cook a locally sourced dinner in your own kitchen — living the Earth Day ethos right through dinnertime. Set on 9 landscaped acres next to the Cross of the Martyrs, Fort Marcy is a true sanctuary above the city.
A private, gated community on 103 beautifully landscaped acres against the backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Located about 4.6 miles from the Plaza and a 10-minute drive to the Railyard, Quail Run offers casitas, townhomes, and spacious condos — all with premium finishes, kiva fireplaces, and classic Santa Fe design.
Guests enjoy a 65-foot pool, full-service spa, fitness center, tennis and pickleball courts, a PGA-rated 9-hole golf course, and walking trails through native high-desert landscape. After a day celebrating the planet, coming home to Quail Run’s serene grounds is its own kind of Earth Day.
🌤️ Weather: Late April in Santa Fe brings daytime temps in the low-to-mid 60s°F with evenings cooling into the 30s–40s. The high-altitude sun is strong — dress in layers and bring sunscreen.
👟 Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Railyard Park is on grass and gravel, and you’ll want to be on your feet all morning.
🛍️ Bring to the Farmers Market: A reusable bag, cash for vendors, and an appetite. Breakfast options abound — breakfast burritos, fresh pastries, local coffee.
🅿️ Parking: The Railyard lot is available for a small fee. Metered street parking is nearby and payable via the ParkMobile app. Arriving at 8am for the Farmers Market makes parking easiest.
👨👩👧 Families: The Earth Day event is 100% family-friendly. Face painting, seed ball making, nature play, guided plant tours, and a stilt walker keep kids of all ages engaged — all free.
📅 Two dates to know: Earth Day is Wednesday, April 22. The Railyard Park celebration is Saturday, April 25.
🐾 Dogs welcome: Railyard Park is dog-friendly. Graze Days + your dog = a memorable morning.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Earth Day in Santa Fe
Is the Santa Fe Earth Day event free?
Yes. The Earth Day 2026 celebration at Railyard Park on April 25 is completely free and open to everyone. No tickets, no registration required — just show up and enjoy.
Is it family-friendly?
Absolutely. The event is designed for all ages, with kids’ nature play, face painting, seed ball making, guided plant tours, a stilt walker, live music, and a food truck on-site. It’s one of the most welcoming community events Santa Fe offers all year.
What else is happening at the Railyard on Earth Day weekend?
The Santa Fe Farmers Market runs Saturday morning from 8:00am to 1:00pm at the Railyard Pavilion — just steps from the Earth Day event grounds. On Sunday, the Railyard Artisan Market runs from 10:00am to 3:00pm, featuring handmade crafts and art from local New Mexico makers.
Where should I stay for Earth Day weekend in Santa Fe?
We recommend Fort Marcy Condos for guests who want to walk to the Plaza and enjoy a cozy, home-like setting with mountain views. For resort-style amenities in a gated community surrounded by native landscape, Quail Run is the ideal retreat. Both are managed by our team at All Seasons Resort Lodging, available 7 days a week.
Do I need a car in Santa Fe for Earth Day weekend?
For Saturday, a car is helpful but not required. Fort Marcy guests can walk to the Plaza and use the free shuttle to the Railyard. The Santa Fe Pick-Up shuttle also stops near the Railyard District. For the Botanical Garden on Sunday, a short drive or rideshare is the easiest option.
Topics Covered in This Guide
Santa Fe Earth Day Earth Day 2026 Railyard Park Festival Santa Fe April Events Santa Fe Farmers Market Eco-Friendly Travel Sustainable Santa Fe Santa Fe Botanical Garden Earth Day Weekend Fort Marcy Condos Quail Run Santa Fe Spring Vacation Rentals
Santa Fe Is Ready for Earth Day — Are You?
A free festival at Railyard Park, the Farmers Market next door, native plant hikes, and a city that has spent 400 years living these values. There’s no better place to celebrate Earth Day. Let us help you plan the stay to match.
Santa Fe and Route 66: The Original Mother Road Detour Worth Every Mile
History, hairpin turns, political drama, and a city that has been welcoming road trippers since 1926. Here’s everything you need to plan your Santa Fe stop on the Mother Road.
🗺️ Amarillo to Santa Fe Routing 🏛️ Historic 1926 Alignment Guide 🏡 Where to Stay on the Mother Road
Picture this: you’ve been driving for hours across the wide-open Texas panhandle, the horizon flat and endless, the sky enormous. Then New Mexico begins to rise around you. The piñon trees appear. The Sangre de Cristo Mountains crest the horizon. And when you finally roll into Santa Fe, past adobe walls glowing warm in the afternoon light, you understand exactly why the people who built Route 66 made sure it came here first.
This year, 2026, marks 100 years since Route 66 first opened its lanes to America. Across eight states, travelers are hitting the Mother Road in record numbers to celebrate a century of open-road adventure. And while the route that millions know today bypasses Santa Fe entirely, the original 1926 alignment told a different story. Santa Fe was right at the heart of it — and the politics that removed it from the map make one of the best tales in American road history.
Whether you’re driving from Amarillo, planning the original Santa Fe Loop, or simply wondering whether the detour is worth your time, this guide answers every question and helps you turn your Santa Fe stop into a real stay.
🛣️ Santa Fe and Route 66: A Story of Politics, Revenge, and the Open Road
When Route 66 was officially established on November 11, 1926, planners chose an ambitious northward loop through central New Mexico — one that carried travelers right into the heart of Santa Fe, the oldest capital city in the United States. The route followed paths walked, ridden, and driven for centuries before it.
Travelers entered Santa Fe along the Old Pecos Trail, passed San Miguel Mission — the oldest church in the country, its walls dating to 1610 — continued past the Loretto Chapel, crossed the Santa Fe River, and arrived at the historic Plaza and La Fonda on the Plaza Hotel. It was a fitting approach to a city founded by Spanish conquistadors in 1607, long before the first American flag was raised anywhere in the Southwest.
“Get your kicks on Route 66” — the song didn’t mention Santa Fe by name, but the city was there at the very beginning, a jewel on the original alignment before politics changed everything.
So what happened? In 1927, New Mexico Governor Arthur T. Hannett lost his re-election bid. Before leaving office, he ordered the construction of a new, more direct highway connecting Santa Rosa to Albuquerque — completely bypassing Santa Fe. It was widely understood as an act of political revenge against the “Santa Fe Ring,” the business interests that controlled the state capital. The new road opened in 1938, and Santa Fe was cut from Route 66 after just 11 years on the map.
That brief tenure is precisely what makes Santa Fe so fascinating on a Route 66 road trip. A pre-1937 alignment road sign still stands one block from the Plaza, at the corner of Water Street and Old Santa Fe Trail, marking where the original route once ran through the heart of this ancient city.
🎉 Route 66 Centennial 2026 — 100 years of the Mother Road. New Mexico has a full slate of commemorative events, special signage tours, and centennial programming throughout 2026. There has never been a better year to make this trip.
🗺️ Driving the Santa Fe Loop: The Original 1926 Route 66 Alignment
🤠 Coming In from the East: Amarillo to Santa Fe
If you’re driving the classic Amarillo to Santa Fe stretch, you’re following the original 1926 alignment — the route that first carried America’s cross-country dreamers into New Mexico’s high desert. From Santa Rosa, the pre-1937 alignment breaks north on what is now US-84, climbing through the Sangre de Cristo foothills, cresting the 7,500-foot Glorieta Pass, and descending into Santa Fe with mountain views that no interstate can match. Here are the key stops along the way:
📍 Stop
📏 Miles from Previous
🌟 What to Know
Cadillac Ranch Amarillo, TX
Start
Ten Cadillacs buried nose-first in a Texas field. A public art landmark since 1974 — bring spray paint and leave your mark.
Midpoint Café Adrian, TX
~40 miles
Exactly halfway between Chicago and Santa Monica on Route 66. Classic diner, homemade pie, and one of the most photographed signs on the Mother Road.
Tucumcari, NM
~110 miles
The neon capital of New Mexico. The Blue Swallow Motel, 30+ colorful murals, and the Route 66 Monument make this the classic overnight stop before Santa Fe.
Santa Rosa, NM
~59 miles
The alignment split point — where the pre-1937 route breaks north toward Santa Fe. Stop at the Route 66 Auto Museum and the famous Blue Hole before heading up.
Pecos, NM
~90 miles
Pecos National Historical Park preserves Ancestral Puebloan ruins, a Spanish mission, and the Civil War’s Battle of Glorieta Pass — all along the original alignment.
Glorieta Pass
~15 miles
At 7,500 feet, one of the most dramatic approaches on the entire route. The road crests the pass and begins its descent into Santa Fe with sweeping mountain views.
Santa Fe, NM
~25 miles
The destination. 400+ years of history, a walkable adobe downtown, world-class food and art — and the original heart of Route 66 in New Mexico.
🏛️ Driving Through Downtown Santa Fe on the Original Route
Once in Santa Fe, you can trace the original alignment right through the city’s historic core. Route 66 entered along Old Santa Fe Trail, passed San Miguel Mission and the Loretto Chapel, arrived at La Fonda on the Plaza, then turned west on Water Street, south on Galisteo Street, and down Cerrillos Road toward Albuquerque. A few stops worth seeking out on foot:
🏛️ San Miguel Mission — The oldest church in the United States. Construction began in 1610. Route 66 ran right past it.
🔖 Pre-1937 Route 66 Road Sign — Corner of Water Street and Old Santa Fe Trail, one block from the Plaza. Easy to miss, remarkable to find.
🍽️ Plaza Cafe — Open since 1905. A Route 66 mainstay when the highway ran past the Plaza. Order the green chile burger at the soda fountain.
🛍️ Five & Dime General Store — On the Plaza in the building where Woolworth’s stood during the Route 66 era. The Frito Pie at the snack bar is a rite of passage.
🏨 La Fonda on the Plaza — A former Harvey House and one of Santa Fe’s most storied hotels. Route 66 travelers stopped here alongside Georgia O’Keeffe and General Douglas MacArthur.
🌟 Cerrillos Road — The original Route 66 motel strip. El Rey Court, established in 1936, still evokes the era with its neon-lit Southwestern-style rooms.
🏔️ Heading South: Route 66 from Santa Fe to Albuquerque
The Historic Alignment — La Bajada Hill
Leaving Santa Fe southbound on the original Route 66, the road first crosses the relatively flat La Bajada Mesa. Then, about 15 miles south of the city, the landscape drops away dramatically. This is La Bajada Hill — “The Descent” in Spanish — and the name understates the experience.
The original alignment descended nearly 500 feet in under two miles via 26 hairpin switchbacks at grades as steep as 28%. Early Route 66 travelers in the underpowered cars of the 1920s and ’30s had to navigate this terrifying stretch before reaching the Rio Grande valley below. Remnants of those switchbacks are still visible from I-25 at Exit 264, or on foot and by 4WD for the dedicated enthusiast. After La Bajada, the original alignment continued through Santo Domingo (Kewa) Pueblo, Bernalillo, and into Albuquerque along 4th Street.
Modern Options: How to Drive This Segment Today
🚗 Route
📏 Distance
⏱️ Drive Time
✨ What You’ll See
Interstate 25
65 miles
~1 hour
Fastest option. Follows the historic corridor and offers views of the La Bajada escarpment from the highway.
Turquoise Trail (Hwy 14) ⭐
~75 miles
~1.5–2 hours
A National Scenic Byway through Cerrillos and Madrid. Art galleries, live music, and one of New Mexico’s most beautiful drives. Highly recommended.
Historic Alignment (partial)
Variable
Half day+
For dedicated enthusiasts. 4WD required for the La Bajada section. Cerrillos Road through downtown Santa Fe is fully driveable on the original route.
💡
Local Tip: Take the Turquoise Trail
The Turquoise Trail (Highway 14) through Cerrillos and Madrid turns the Santa Fe to Albuquerque drive from a highway slog into a genuine experience. Madrid — once a ghost town, now a thriving arts community — is a wonderful half-day stop with galleries, restaurants, and live music on weekend evenings.
🎯 Is the Santa Fe Detour Worth It?
Here’s the honest question every road tripper faces at Santa Rosa: do I take the 1926 loop north to Santa Fe, or stay on the faster post-1937 alignment straight to Albuquerque? The detour adds roughly 2–3 hours to your journey. What you gain is completely disproportionate to the time cost.
Most Route 66 stops are places you pass through. Santa Fe is a place you stay.
Here’s what Santa Fe offers that no other stop on the New Mexico stretch can match:
✅ 400+ years of history — Founded in 1607, Santa Fe is the oldest capital city in the US. Walking its downtown streets, you move through Native American, Spanish Colonial, Mexican, and American history that no other Route 66 stop can touch.
✅ The original alignment is walkable — You can trace the entire Route 66 path through downtown Santa Fe on foot in under an hour. The Plaza, the Water Street sign, San Miguel Mission, La Fonda — all there, compact and extraordinary.
✅ World-class food and art — Canyon Road’s gallery district, Museum Hill’s four major museums, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, and New Mexico cuisine that will change how you think about green chile.
✅ The Turquoise Trail heading south — Leave Santa Fe via Highway 14 through Cerrillos and Madrid and you’re experiencing two Route 66 directions for the price of one detour.
✅ A mountain setting unlike anything else on the route — At 7,000 feet, Santa Fe’s high-desert light, piñon-scented air, and adobe skyline give it a quality no flatlands stop can replicate.
We recommend two nights minimum in Santa Fe — three if you want to explore beyond downtown. Here’s how those days fill naturally:
Day
Theme
What to Do
Day 1
The Mother Road
Walk the original Route 66 alignment through downtown. Plaza Cafe for breakfast, San Miguel Mission, the Water Street sign, Five & Dime Frito Pie, sunset drink at La Fonda.
Day 2
Art & Culture
Canyon Road gallery walk in the morning. Museum Hill in the afternoon — four world-class museums in one location. New Mexican dinner on or near the Plaza.
Day 3
The Turquoise Trail
Drive Highway 14 south through Cerrillos and Madrid toward Albuquerque. Breakfast in Madrid, browse the galleries, continue to ABQ or loop back to Santa Fe.
🏡 Ready to Make Santa Fe More Than a One-Night Stop?
Our local team knows every corner of this city. Browse our Santa Fe vacation rentals — steps from the Plaza and the original Route 66 alignment — and turn your road trip layover into a real stay.
🏡 Where to Stay in Santa Fe on Your Route 66 Road Trip
After days on the road, a vacation rental changes everything. A full kitchen for breakfast before a long drive. A living room to spread out your maps and road guides. A private space to actually decompress and feel like you’ve arrived somewhere — not just checked in to pass the night. We think that’s exactly what a Route 66 stop in Santa Fe deserves.
We manage two outstanding properties in Santa Fe, each offering something different for the road tripper who wants more than a motel room:
Steps from the Santa Fe Plaza, next to the Cross of the Martyrs, with lovely views across the city. You’re within walking distance of every original Route 66 landmark in downtown Santa Fe. This is as close to the heart of the Mother Road as you can sleep.
A gated community with resort amenities — homes, townhomes, and condos offering space and privacy just a short drive from the Plaza. Ideal for families or anyone who wants room to breathe after a long stretch behind the wheel.
📅 Planning Your Santa Fe Route 66 Visit: Practical Tips
🌸 Best time to visit: Late spring (May–June) and fall (September–October) offer comfortable driving weather and thinner crowds. Summer brings spectacular afternoon monsoon storms. Winter is quiet and beautiful, though Glorieta Pass can see snow.
⛰️ Altitude awareness: Santa Fe sits at 7,000 feet. Arriving from Amarillo (3,600 ft) or lower, plan for an easy first day. Drink extra water and pace yourself.
🗺️ Navigating the old alignment: The pre-1937 route involves frontage roads, state highways, and rural jogs not always marked on GPS. An EZ66 Guide or dedicated Route 66 road atlas is worth having before you leave home.
🚗 Amarillo to Santa Fe drive time: Roughly 5–6 hours of driving on the 1926 alignment (~300 miles), not counting stops. Most travelers break the journey with a night in Tucumcari — a classic Route 66 town with genuine neon-lit character.
🎉 2026 Centennial events: New Mexico has a full slate of Route 66 Centennial programming throughout 2026. Check with the New Mexico Tourism Department for commemorative events and special activities in Santa Fe this year.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Route 66 and Santa Fe
Did Route 66 actually go through Santa Fe?
Yes. The original 1926 alignment of Route 66 ran directly through downtown Santa Fe, passing San Miguel Mission, the Loretto Chapel, La Fonda on the Plaza Hotel, and the historic Santa Fe Plaza. A pre-1937 Route 66 road sign still stands one block from the Plaza at the corner of Water Street and Old Santa Fe Trail. Santa Fe remained on the original route until 1938, when a political reroute replaced the alignment with a more direct path from Santa Rosa to Albuquerque.
What is the Santa Fe Loop on Route 66?
The Santa Fe Loop refers to the original 1926–1937 Route 66 alignment that curved northward from Santa Rosa through Santa Fe before heading south to Albuquerque — creating a large S-curve across central New Mexico. It was replaced in 1938 by the “Santa Fe Cut-Off,” a more direct east-west route through Moriarty and Tijeras Canyon, cutting roughly 107 miles off the New Mexico segment.
How far is it from Amarillo to Santa Fe via Route 66?
Approximately 300 miles via the original 1926 alignment — from Amarillo west through the Texas panhandle, across the New Mexico border, through Tucumcari and Santa Rosa, then north on US-84 to I-25 and into Santa Fe. Drive time is roughly 5–6 hours without stops. Most road trippers break the journey with an overnight in Tucumcari, making for a relaxed two-day run.
Can you still drive the original Route 66 from Santa Fe to Albuquerque?
Partially. Cerrillos Road through downtown Santa Fe follows the original alignment and is fully driveable. I-25 generally traces the historic corridor south. The La Bajada Hill section — with its famous 26-switchback descent — requires a 4WD vehicle. For a scenic modern alternative, the Turquoise Trail (Highway 14) through Cerrillos and Madrid is the recommended choice, offering a beautiful high-desert journey into Albuquerque.
Where should I stay in Santa Fe on a Route 66 road trip?
A vacation rental near the Plaza puts you within walking distance of every original Route 66 landmark in downtown Santa Fe. Fort Marcy Condos are steps from the Plaza and offer lovely city views — ideal for tracing the original alignment on foot. Quail Run Properties offer resort amenities and more space, perfect for families or longer stays. Both are managed by All Seasons Resort Lodging, a local Santa Fe team available 7 days a week.
Topics Covered in This Guide
Santa Fe Route 66 1926 Alignment Santa Fe Loop Amarillo to Santa Fe La Bajada Hill Turquoise Trail Glorieta Pass Mother Road 2026 Santa Fe Vacation Rentals Fort Marcy Quail Run
Santa Fe Has Been Welcoming Road Trippers Since 1926
The Mother Road brought travelers to this city for 11 years — and the welcome has never stopped. Make your Route 66 stop in Santa Fe a real stay, not just a night on the way to somewhere else. We’d love to help you plan it.
That’s the unbeatable trio of any epic ski vacation. You’ve conquered the mountain. Your cheeks are rosy. Your quads are screaming for mercy. You’ve just googled ‘best apres ski Park City’ and found this post.
It’s time to trade your ski boots for something more cozy. We’ve got you covered. This is your complete guide to the après ski scene in the Park City Mountain Resort, 35 minutes from Salt Lake City Airport.
The Best Après-Ski Spots to Match Your Vibe
Here’s a quick guide to choosing the perfect après ski spot based on your mood.
🕺High-energy
For those who want to shake off the snow and celebrate with the crowd. Expect energetic vibes, live music, and plenty of après ski revelry.
No Name Saloon. It is located on the historic Main Street and is exclusively for those 21 and over. This is the busiest bar in Park City and is known to be popular with the younger crowd. At this full bar, you will find warm winter drinks and a lively après ski.
Aprés at Pendry. This cozy lobby lounge in Canyons Village offers shared plates, live music, and a variety of drinks. Relax by the fire and soak in the mountain views as you unwind after a day on the slopes.
The Spur Bar and Grill.If you are visiting Park City and don’t know what to do, bookmark The Spur Bar. This is the Park City local’s favorite après scene. With live music every night, you will surely kick off your ski boots and dance the winter night away. Fantastic food, local Utah beers, and family-friendly. What more could you ask for?
St Regis, Deer Valley.If you want to feel like a VIP, then The Vintage Room at St. Regis Deer Valley is the place to be. You will be wowed by the 360-degree mountain views and bumping DJ sets.
These places are for you if you want to sink into a rustic couch and unwind in a relaxed setting.
RIME Seafood & Steak. This refurbished cabin hideaway, located at the top of Deer Valley’s Jordanelle Gondola, offers oysters on the half-shell. The dress code is casual, skiing, or athletic attire.
Old Town Cellars.Indulge in a cozy wine dive experience at this unpretentious après-lounge on historic Main Street.
J&G Grill at the St. Regis Deer Valley. Enjoy tasty libations and breathtaking views of Deer Valley and the Jordanelle Reservoir from the outdoor fire pits. Don’t miss the daily champagne sabering at 5:30 pm to celebrate a perfect day.
The High West Saloon.Located next to the Town Lift in Main Street in Old Town Park City, you’ll find the only ski-in gastro distillery. Fuel up at this one-stop-shop with Western-inspired grub before hitting the slopes, or reward yourself with a handcrafted cocktail after a day on the mountain.
No Name Saloon.Like most après-ski establishments, No Name Saloon offers delicious food, a lively atmosphere, and a wide selection of cocktails. Cozy up by the fireplace while enjoying a game of shuffleboard, or soak up the sun on the heated rooftop patio with stunning views.
Lookout Cabin sun deck with mountain views.
🌴 Outdoor Oasis
Breathe in the fresh mountain air on a spectacularly sunny patio overlooking Park City Mountain Resort.
Bridge Cafe.Conveniently located directly at the bottom of the Park City’s Town lift on Main Street, this restaurant boasts the most spectacular outdoor patio dining areas. You can ski-in/ski-out during the winter right at the front door.
The Nelson Cottage by High West.The wooden bar lends High West its classic, old-timey charm. Just down the road, you can enhance that experience at High West’s outdoor dining scene to complement its whiskey.
Umbrella Bar. Found in Canyons Village. This Park City establishment delivers lively music, classic après ski eats like hot dogs and burgers, and gorgeous 360-degree views from the mountain terrace.
Umbrella Bar at Canyons Village.
Après-Ski Spots By Location
After conquering the mountain like true ski gods, there’s no better reward than relaxing at a cozy après-ski spot. Here are the top 3 spots according to your base.
Park City Mountain Village Base Area
The Corner Store. The self-proclaimed go-to for the most authentic après ski. Enjoy typical. You will find live music and a classic American menu.
Legends Bar and Grill. The Corner Store offers relaxed dining, socializing, and typical American pub grub.
Bluebird Apres Cafe. People love Bluebird Apres Cafe for its fantastic atmosphere, good vibes, and afternoon sun!
Pig Pen Saloon. With over 186 Google reviews, The Pig Pen Saloon is a favorite aprés location at Park City Mountain Village due to its outdoor patio, drink options, and great food.
Baja Cantina. For those looking for a south-of-the-border flair, Baja Cantina serves up tasty margaritas after a day of skiing or snowboarding.
The Corner Store Pub & Grill at Park City Mountain Village.
The Red Tail Grill.Reservations are required for this kid-friendly restaurant with spectacular mountain views.
Umbrella Bar.The original aprés location at the Canyons. Throughout the winter, enjoy outdoor fire pits and live music.
Aprés at Pendry. The newest aprés addition to Canyons Village offers indoor and outdoor options, live music, and a bustling bar that crafts perfect cocktails.
Pendry Aprés Ski-in/ski-out at Canyons Village in Park City.
Park City Main Street
The Cabin Park. Situated in the heart of Old Town, enjoy cocktails and live music until the early morning hours.
Collies. Collie’s Sports Bar & Grill is a local favorite with a laid-back atmosphere and over 25 TVs. You can also enjoy free Trivia Tuesdays.
O’Shucks White House. Half a block from Main Street, just steps from the slopes and Town Lift.
High West Saloon. The first ski-in/ski-out distillery in the USA! Plus, they have award-winning whiskey!
No Name Saloon. Their tagline says it all – The bar that made Park City famous!
The Spur Bar & Grill. A classic on Main Street. A must-try is their famous wings!
The Cabin Park City and their Elkupine mascot.
Deer Valley
RIME Raw Bar. The views from the top of the Jordanelle Gondola are a perfect aprés experience. However, they close at 3 p.m., so you’ll have to take the party elsewhere if you want to aprés longer.
Troll Hallen Lounge. Experience aprés at the Stein Erikson Lodge and indulge in seasonal spirits or their signature “Stein’s Burger.”
The Sticky Wicket. This 21-and-over bar is located upstairs at the Silver Lake Lodge. It’s a throwback to the golden era of skiing.
The Sticky Wicket aprés shot ski at Deer Valley.
Kimball Junction
Red Rock Tap Room.Located next to Red Rock Brew Pub, their tap room offers a casual place to grab one of their excellent beers and bite to eat.
Maxwells. Sit at the bar in Maxwells and grab a slice of pizza, or get a cocktail at Myrtle Rose, their bar next door.
Park City Brewing. For locals, made by locals is their motto. It’s the perfect place to sip on a tasty beverage and nosh some delicious tacos after skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, or any adventure.
Myrtle Rose at Maxwells in Kimball Junction, Park City, Utah.
The best après ski bar in Park City depends on your vibe. For locals and live music, The Spur Bar & Grill on Main Street is a perennial favorite. For high-energy DJ sets and mountain views, The Vintage Room at St. Regis Deer Valley is hard to beat. For a classic ski town atmosphere, No Name Saloon on Main Street is the most iconic option.
Where is the best après ski in Canyons Village?
The top après ski spots in Canyons Village are Aprés at Pendry, which offers live music, craft cocktails, and both indoor and outdoor seating, and the Umbrella Bar, which has 360-degree mountain views, outdoor fire pits, and classic après ski food like hot dogs and burgers.
What time does après ski start in Park City?
Après ski in Park City typically kicks off around 3–4 PM as skiers and snowboarders come off the mountain. Some on-mountain spots like RIME Raw Bar at Deer Valley close as early as 3 PM, so it’s worth heading there first. Main Street bars and Canyons Village spots keep the party going well into the evening.
Is there ski-in ski-out après ski in Park City?
Yes. High West Saloon on Main Street is the only ski-in/ski-out distillery in the USA, accessible via the Town Lift. Bridge Cafe is also located at the base of the Town Lift with a large outdoor patio. In Canyons Village, Aprés at Pendry offers ski-in/ski-out access as well.
Where should families go for après ski in Park City?
Park City has several family-friendly après ski options. The Spur Bar & Grill on Main Street welcomes all ages and has live music nightly. The Corner Store at Park City Mountain Village is another great family option with a classic American menu. Draft’s Burger Bar in Canyons Village is popular with kids for its gourmet burgers and sundaes.
Picture this: warm Utah sun on your face, skis carving effortless turns through silky corn snow, and the sound of live music drifting up from the Canyons Village Forum Stage below. That’s Peaks & Beats at Park City Mountain — the moment spring skiing stops feeling like the end of winter and starts feeling like a destination all its own. We’ve been watching this event grow into one of the Wasatch’s most anticipated late-season traditions, and if you haven’t planned a trip around it yet, 2026 is your year.
🎵 What Is Peaks & Beats at Park City Mountain?
Peaks & Beats is Vail Resorts’ annual touring spring music series, traveling through select mountains across the country each March. Park City Mountain is one of the standout stops — and it’s easy to see why. With 7,300-plus acres of skiable terrain and a purpose-built outdoor concert hub at Canyons Village, the mountain was practically made for this kind of event.
The concept is beautifully simple. You ski the mountain all morning while conditions are at their best. Then, as the afternoon sun warms the base and the snow gets heavy, you drift down to the Forum Stage for free live music against a mountain backdrop no indoor venue can match. No tickets. No wristbands. No cover charge. Just show up and let the music carry the rest of the afternoon.
In 2026, the main stage gets Andy Frasco & The U.N. on Thursday, Marlon Funaki on Friday, and Electric Guest headlining Saturday. Meanwhile, the Toyota Music Den at Miners Camp runs mid-day sets Friday through Sunday, so you can catch live music between runs without ever heading back to the base. It’s a genuinely full-weekend experience — not just a one-set affair.
“Spring skiing in Park City is its own kind of magic. Add free live music at the base and you have one of the best-value ski weekends in North America.”
Peaks & Beats also marks the unofficial opening of Park City’s spring event season, which runs through mid-April and includes the legendary Pond Skim at Mountain Village. If you’ve been waiting for an excuse to plan a spring ski trip, this is it.
📅 Peaks & Beats 2026 Schedule: Dates, Artists, and Stages
The 2026 Peaks & Beats at Park City Mountain runs Thursday through Saturday, March 26–28, with performances spread across Canyons Village and Mountain Village. Every main stage performance is free — no ticket required. Here’s the full schedule.
Day
Date
Time
Artist / Act
Venue
Admission
Thursday
March 26
4:00–6:00 PM
Andy Frasco & The U.N.
Forum Stage, Canyons Village
✅ FREE
Friday
March 27
11:30 AM–2:30 PM
Toyota Music Den (TBA)
Miners Camp, On-Mountain
✅ FREE w/ lift ticket
Friday
March 27
12:00–3:00 PM
DJ Kyfi
Umbrella Bar, Canyons Village
✅ FREE
Friday
March 27
3:00–5:00 PM
Marlon Funaki
Forum Stage, Canyons Village
✅ FREE
Saturday
March 28
11:30 AM–2:30 PM
DJ My Guy
Miners Camp, On-Mountain
✅ FREE w/ lift ticket
Saturday
March 28
12:00–3:00 PM
J. Rox
Après at the Airstream
✅ FREE
Saturday
March 28
3:00–5:00 PM
⭐ Electric Guest — Headliner
Forum Stage, Canyons Village
✅ FREE
Sunday
March 29
11:30 AM–2:30 PM
Cav3man
Miners Camp, On-Mountain
✅ FREE w/ lift ticket
Toyota, Mtn Dew, and American Express are in the Canyons Village Forum Friday and Saturday with giveaways and activations running all weekend. Always confirm the latest details at the official Park City Mountain events page, as additional acts are sometimes announced closer to the event.
If you can make just one set, Electric Guest on Saturday afternoon at the Forum Stage is the one — festival headliner energy with spring sunshine to match.
🎤 Meet the 2026 Headliners
Andy Frasco & The U.N.
Thursday, March 26 • 4:00–6:00 PM • Forum Stage
Equal parts rock, soul, and chaos, Andy Frasco & The U.N. are one of the hardest-working live acts on the circuit. Known for pulling the audience into the show, their sets feel less like a concert and more like a communal experience. A perfect Thursday opener to set the weekend’s energy.
Marlon Funaki
Friday, March 27 • 3:00–5:00 PM • Forum Stage
A rising artist bringing soulful, genre-blending sound to the Forum Stage on Friday afternoon. Smooth, warm, and perfectly suited for that end-of-ski-day golden hour when the mountain is at its most beautiful.
⭐ Headliner
Electric Guest
Saturday, March 28 • 3:00–5:00 PM • Forum Stage
The Saturday headliner and the set to plan your whole weekend around. Electric Guest brings a polished, festival-caliber sound — indie pop with real depth and presence. With spring sunshine overhead and the Canyons Village peaks behind the stage, this one will be hard to top.
🎿 Spring Skiing at Park City Mountain: What to Expect in Late March
Late March at Park City Mountain can be some of the most genuinely enjoyable skiing of the entire season — not because of deep powder, but because of corn snow, and because the mountain has a warmth and ease in spring that January simply can’t match.
Corn Snow 101 — The Secret Ingredient of Spring Skiing
❄️
The Corn Snow Window
Corn snow forms through a daily melt-freeze cycle. Overnight freezing creates small granular crystals on the snow surface. As spring sunshine warms them through late morning, they soften into a grippy, forgiving layer that carves beautifully at every skill level. The magic window is roughly 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM. Before that, runs can be firm and icy. After 1 PM on warm days, lower terrain gets heavy and slow. Ski your best laps in that mid-morning window, then head for the Forum Stage when the snow starts working against you.
Best Runs at Canyons Village in Late March
North-facing glades off Tombstone Express — Hold snow quality longer than almost anywhere else at Canyons Village. Worth tracking them down.
Ninety-Nine 90 and Peak 5 — Higher elevation preserves conditions as the base thins at lower elevations. Great for early morning laps before the corn window opens.
Dreamscape and Dreamcatcher chairs — Mellow intermediate cruisers with east and south exposure that soften beautifully by mid-morning and rarely get crowded on spring weekends.
Saddleback Express glades — Perfectly spaced aspen tree runs that hold snow well and offer a welcome change of pace between groomers.
One honest note: lower elevation runs near the base areas can get slushy and sticky by early afternoon on warm sunny days. Plan your descent toward the village around noon to ski the best conditions and arrive at the Forum Stage ready for the music — not worn out from fighting heavy snow.
Spring Skiing Tips for Peaks & Beats Weekend
🕙 Arrive at Canyons Village by 9:30 AM for firm, fast morning groomers before the corn window opens on east-facing terrain.
☀️ Target east and south-facing runs from 10:30 AM onward — these soften first and give the cleanest corn snow of the day.
🧴 Sunscreen is non-negotiable. UV intensity at elevation in late March is much stronger than it feels, especially on clear bluebird days.
🕶️ Pack sunglasses alongside your goggles — you’ll swap them for the afternoon outdoor concert and your eyes will thank you.
🧥 Layer up for the morning, plan to shed by noon. The ridgeline can feel like January at 9 AM and genuinely warm at the base by 2 PM.
🎿 Ski your best laps before 1 PM. After that, there’s a headliner waiting for you at the Forum Stage.
🗓️ How to Plan the Perfect Peaks & Beats Day
Here’s how we’d do it — drawn from 26 years of helping guests make the most of Park City’s finest spring days.
Time
What to Do
Details
9:30 AM
Hit the Sunrise Gondola at Canyons Village
The new 10-passenger gondola is fast and wind-resistant. Start with Chicane as a warm-up, then work into Tombstone terrain or Ninety-Nine 90 for elevation.
10:30 AM
The corn snow window opens
Transition to east-facing runs as the surface softens. Dreamscape, the Saddleback glades, or Tombstone north-facing trees. Make these laps count.
12:30 PM
Lunch at Miners Camp or Red Pine Lodge
On Friday and Saturday, the Toyota Music Den runs 11:30 AM–2:30 PM right at Miners Camp. Grab lunch with a live soundtrack, then make your way back to the village.
1:30 PM
Return to Canyons Village base
Ski down and grab a spot near the Forum Stage. Partner Village giveaways are running — Toyota, Mtn Dew, and Amex activations all day Friday and Saturday.
3:00 PM
Main stage show begins
Swap goggles for sunglasses. Marlon Funaki on Friday, Electric Guest on Saturday. The Forum Stage ski-beach vibe is everything — drinks in hand, mountain behind the stage, spring sun overhead.
5:00 PM
Après at Canyons Village
The Umbrella Bar is steps from the Forum Stage. Red Tail Grill has a great slopeside patio. Après at the Airstream keeps the outdoor energy going. Full guide: Best Après Ski in Park City.
Salt Lake City International Airport sits just 35–40 minutes away via I-80 East — one of the most painless airport-to-resort drives in all of North American skiing. No mountain passes, no white-knuckle canyon roads.
✈️
From SLC Airport
35–40 min via I-80 East. Rental cars, shuttles, and ride-shares available. Full transport guide →
🚌
Free Bus System
Park City’s free electric bus connects all neighborhoods to the Canyons Village Transit Hub. No car needed once you’re in town.
🚡
Cabriolet Lift
Park in the Cabriolet lot and ride the gondola lift directly into the heart of Canyons Village. No ski boot trudging required.
🅿️
Parking Tips
Arrive by 9 AM on event days. The new Canyons Lower Village Garage adds free parking capacity. Carpooling earns a free spot — worth coordinating for a group trip.
Staying at a Canyons Village property also gives you access to the Canyons Village Connect app — complimentary on-demand rides within the village, perfect for evening dinner without touching your car keys.
🏔️ Where to Stay for Peaks & Beats Weekend in Park City
Your accommodation choice shapes the entire weekend more than almost anything else. Staying at Canyons Village means skiing to the Forum Stage, walking to après, and never needing a car between check-in and check-out. That’s a completely different trip than driving in from across town each morning.
We manage properties throughout Park City, and we’ve seen firsthand how much the right location elevates a spring ski weekend. Here’s how we’d approach it based on your group’s style and budget.
💡
Spring Rate Advantage
Late March lodging at Canyons Village is typically 20–40% lower than peak January–February pricing — with equally strong snow and a fully operational mountain. Peaks & Beats weekend is one of the best-value stretches of the entire ski season. View current spring deals →
🎿 Ski-In / Ski-Out at Canyons Village — Steps from the Forum Stage
Zero friction between your room, the lifts, and the concert stage. These properties put you right at the center of the Peaks & Beats action.
⭐ Sundial Lodge
Heart of Canyons Village with ski-in/ski-out access to Red Pine Gondola. Genuinely steps from the Forum Stage. Our top pick for Peaks & Beats weekend.
Luxury ski-in/ski-out condos at Canyons Village. Ideal for groups or families who want generous space and upscale amenities right alongside the spring event energy.
🚶 Walk to Lifts at Canyons Village — Smart Access, Great Value
Easy walking distance to the Forum Stage and lifts, without the ski-in/ski-out premium.
Westgate Park City
Full resort amenities with ski-in/ski-out and family-friendly facilities including pools and on-site dining. An excellent all-in-one choice for groups with kids.
A stylish, modern property at Canyons Village with easy walk-to-lifts access. A great fit for guests who want a fresh, design-forward stay close to all the Peaks & Beats action.
Not sure which property fits your group best? Our reservations team is here seven days a week, 9 AM to 5 PM Mountain Time. Call 888-575-2775 or email reservations@asrlodging.com — we genuinely love helping guests find the right match.
🎒 What to Pack for Peaks & Beats Weekend
Spring skiing to outdoor concert in one afternoon requires a different strategy than a January powder trip. The mountain can feel like mid-winter on the upper ridges at 9 AM and genuinely warm at the Canyons Village base by 3 PM. Here’s how to pack for a smooth transition.
🎿 On the Mountain
🧴 SPF 50+ sunscreen — UV is intense at elevation in late March, far stronger than it feels at the base
🕶️ Sunglasses alongside your goggles for the après and concert transition
🧥 Layerable mid-layer — cold ridge mornings shift to warm base afternoons fast
💧 Hydration pack or water bottle — spring sun dehydrates faster than you’d expect
🧢 Baseball cap for under your helmet as temperatures climb mid-morning
🎿 Ask your shop for a spring tune and wax — keeps your skis moving on sticky late-afternoon corn
🎵 Concert Ready
👟 Comfortable footwear to swap into — Canyons Village venues are all walkable after you boot out
🧤 Lightweight jacket for the evening — outdoor stages cool down meaningfully after the sun dips
📱 Fully charged phone — photos, plus the Canyons Village Connect ride app
💳 Card or cash — food and drink vendors are active throughout the village all weekend
🎒 Small daypack to carry the layers you shed by afternoon
😎 Good energy — the Forum Stage crowd is warm, welcoming, and ready to celebrate a great ski day
🌸 More Spring Events at Park City Mountain in 2026
Peaks & Beats is the opening act for Park City’s most festive stretch of the ski season. The spring event calendar builds from late March through mid-April, giving you every reason to extend your stay or plan a second visit.
🎵
Spring Concert Series
Every Saturday, mid-March through closing day, 3–5 PM
Free outdoor concerts at the Canyons Village Forum every Saturday afternoon through season end. A weekly reason to plan a longer spring stay and build live music into your regular après routine.
🤡
Clown Day
Wednesday, April 1, 2026
Park City’s beloved costume ski tradition since the 1970s. Show up in your most outlandish outfit and join hundreds of locals doing the same. No ticket, no signup — just arrive in costume and embrace the chaos.
💦
Park City Mountain Pond Skim
Saturday, April 11, 2026
The season’s grand finale at Eagle Super Pond. Skiers attempt to cross in costume — some glide effortlessly, most splash spectacularly. Register early to compete; no ticket needed to watch and cheer from the sidelines.
🗓️
Planning Tip: Make It a Full Spring Stay
A 5–7 night stay in late March sets you up for Peaks & Beats, the weekly Spring Concert Series, strong conditions across the mountain, and a lead-up to Clown Day in early April. It’s the best-value stretch of the entire Park City ski season. Browse all Park City things to do to build your full itinerary.
❓ Peaks & Beats Park City: Frequently Asked Questions
What is Peaks & Beats at Park City Mountain?
Peaks & Beats is Vail Resorts’ annual touring spring music series hosted at select ski mountains across the country. At Park City Mountain, it features three days of free live concerts across Canyons Village and Mountain Village in late March, combining afternoon performances with world-class spring skiing conditions.
Is Peaks & Beats free to attend?
Yes. All main stage performances at Peaks & Beats Park City are free admission — no ticket, wristband, or registration required. The on-mountain Toyota Music Den stage at Miners Camp requires a valid lift ticket or season pass to access, since it’s located mid-mountain.
When is Peaks & Beats 2026 at Park City?
The 2026 Peaks & Beats at Park City Mountain runs Thursday through Saturday, March 26–28, 2026, with a bonus Toyota Music Den set on Sunday, March 29. Main stage headliners are Andy Frasco & The U.N. (Thursday), Marlon Funaki (Friday), and Electric Guest (Saturday).
Where exactly is Peaks & Beats held?
The main stage is the Forum Stage at Canyons Village. Additional performances take place at the Umbrella Bar at Canyons Village, Après at the Airstream at Canyons Village, and the Toyota Music Den at Miners Camp on the mountain. Partner Village activations from Toyota, Mtn Dew, and American Express run in the Canyons Village Forum area Friday and Saturday.
What is corn snow and why is it great for spring skiing?
Corn snow forms through daily melt-freeze cycles in spring. Overnight freezing creates small granular crystals on the snow surface. As spring sunshine warms them through late morning, they soften into a grippy, forgiving layer that carves beautifully at all skill levels. The best corn snow window at Park City is typically 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM on clear spring days — firm enough for edge control, soft enough for smooth, confident turns.
Where is the best place to stay for Peaks & Beats in Park City?
For the closest access to the Forum Stage and Canyons Village concert venues, ski-in/ski-out properties like Sundial Lodge and LIFT Park City are our top recommendations. Walk-to-lifts options like Silverado Lodge and Red Pine Condos offer excellent access at a lower price point. Call 888-575-2775 to find the right fit for your group and dates.
How do I get to Park City Mountain from Salt Lake City?
Salt Lake City International Airport is approximately 35–40 minutes from Park City via I-80 East — one of the easiest airport-to-resort drives in North American skiing. Rental cars, shared shuttles, and ride-shares are all readily available. Once in Park City, the free public bus system connects all neighborhoods to the Canyons Village Transit Hub, so a car is optional if you’re staying slopeside.
Are spring lodging rates lower during Peaks & Beats weekend?
Yes. Late March lodging rates at Canyons Village properties are typically 20–40% lower than peak January–February pricing, while snow conditions remain strong and the mountain runs full operations. Peaks & Beats weekend represents some of the best value of the entire ski season. Check current spring deals →
“We’ve been coming to Park City every March for six years running. Peaks & Beats weekend turned what used to be a standard ski trip into something we genuinely look forward to all year. The music, the corn snow, the energy at Canyons Village — there’s nothing quite like it.”
— All Seasons Resort Lodging Guest, Canyons Village
🏔️ Ready to Plan Your Peaks & Beats Trip?
Corn snow mornings, free live music in the afternoon sun, and world-class lodging steps from the Forum Stage. We’ve been helping guests make the most of Park City for over 26 years — and Peaks & Beats weekend is one of our favorite times of year to do it.
Long before Paris had a runway, Indigenous artisans were stitching ancestral wisdom into every fiber. Santa Fe has always known this. And now, the world is catching up.
SWAIA Native Fashion Week in Santa Fe, NM. Photo courtesy of SWAIA.
If you have been curious about Santa Fe Native Fashion Week — or you keep seeing it called the Indigenous Fashion Week and wondering if they are the same thing — you are in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know to attend in 2026: what the event is, when it happens, who is designing, how to get tickets, and most importantly, where to stay so you are not left scrambling for a room.
Spoiler: Santa Fe fills up fast during cultural events. Keep reading.
🎨 What Is Santa Fe Native Fashion Week?
Santa Fe Native Fashion Week is a multi-day celebration of Indigenous fashion design, bringing together Native designers, models, fashion industry professionals, and cultural enthusiasts from across North America. Think runway shows, designer trunk shows, panel discussions, and parties — all rooted in the deep cultural heritage that makes Santa Fe unlike any other city on earth.
You may have seen it referred to by a few different names. Here is a quick breakdown so you know exactly what you are looking at:
Event Name
Organizer
When
What to Know
SWAIA Native Fashion Week
Southwestern Association for Indian Arts (SWAIA)
May 2026
Official SWAIA-produced event; intimate, curated format at the Eldorado Hotel & Spa
Native Fashion Week Santa Fe
Curator Amber-Dawn Bear Robe
Second week of May
Parallel event with runway shows at the Railyard Arts District; covered in Vogue, Forbes, and CFDA
SWAIA Native Fashion Show
SWAIA
August (Indian Market weekend)
Annual runway show during Santa Fe Indian Market; a separate and equally spectacular event
Both May events share the same creative universe and many of the same designers. For trip-planning purposes, think of the second week of May as Santa Fe’s fashion week moment, and the third weekend of August as its companion event during Indian Market. Two incredible experiences, one extraordinary city.
📅 A Brief History — From Fashion Show to Fashion Week
This did not happen overnight. The SWAIA Native Fashion Show has been drawing crowds at Santa Fe Indian Market since 2014, quietly building one of the most passionate audiences in American fashion. Year after year, the show sold out. Designers gained national profiles. Celebrities and dignitaries began appearing in the front row.
The leap to a dedicated Fashion Week happened in 2024, when SWAIA launched the inaugural SWAIA Indigenous Fashion Week and curator Amber-Dawn Bear Robe simultaneously produced Native Fashion Week Santa Fe at the Railyard Arts District. The response was immediate. The Santa Fe Community Convention Center filled to capacity.
Coverage landed in Vogue, Forbes, Fashionista, and the CFDA. The Council of Fashion Designers of America sent its CEO, Steven Kolb, to participate in a panel discussion alongside designer Jamie Okuma, who became the first Indigenous member of the CFDA. Former Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland attended. Stars of the hit TV show “Dark Winds” walked the runway.
“Indigenous fashion has been couture since before ‘couture’ existed. The precision, the artistry, the vision — it’s always been here, shaping style in ways the industry is only beginning to understand.”
— Amber-Dawn Bear Robe, Curator & Art Historian, Siksika Nation
For 2026, SWAIA introduces a more refined, single-venue format at the Eldorado Hotel & Spa, designed to deepen the storytelling and strengthen connections between designers and audiences. Smaller in scale, richer in experience.
Here is what is confirmed for 2026. Save these dates now, because Santa Fe accommodations move quickly once word gets out.
📌
2026 At a Glance
SWAIA Native Fashion Week: May 8–9, 2026 — Eldorado Hotel & Spa, 309 W San Francisco St, Santa Fe, New Mexico
Date
Event
Time
Location
Access
Fri, May 8
Native Creatives Market
10 AM – 4 PM
Anasazi Ballroom
✅ Free & Open
Fri, May 8
Press & Designer Reception
6 – 8 PM
Cava and the Chapel
🔒 Invite Only
Sat, May 9
Native Creatives Market
10 AM – 4 PM
Anasazi Ballroom
✅ Free & Open
Sat, May 9
A Taste of Native Fashion Gala
6 – 8:30 PM
Grand Ballroom
🎟 Ticketed
The Native Creatives Market on both days is free and open to the public — a wonderful entry point if you are new to the event. Browse ready-to-wear collections and accessories directly from the designers, with a trunk show atmosphere that encourages real conversation about the work. The Saturday evening Gala is the centerpiece ticketed experience, combining runway presentations with a curated culinary experience and silent auction.
Tickets and full event information are available through SWAIA’s official website. Past years have seen Gala tickets sell out well in advance, so early purchase is strongly encouraged.
👗 Featured Indigenous Designers to Watch
Indigenous designers showcasing their collections at SWAIA Native Fashion Week. Photo courtesy of SWAIA.
What makes Indigenous fashion so compelling? It is wearable storytelling. Every collection draws on ancestral knowledge, traditional techniques, and a deep connection to land and community that mainstream fashion has rarely captured. These designers are not referencing a trend. They are the origin.
The 2026 SWAIA Native Fashion Week features a powerful confirmed lineup:
Patricia Michaels
Taos Pueblo
A Project Runway finalist whose water-inspired designs have become iconic. Her work bridges traditional Pueblo artistry with contemporary high-fashion construction.
Jamie Okuma
Luiseño / Wailaki / Okinawan / Shoshone-Bannock
The first Indigenous member of the CFDA. Her intricately beaded pieces have appeared on red carpets and in major museum collections worldwide.
Lauren Good Day
Mandan / Hidatsa / Arikara Nation
Known for bold, contemporary silhouettes that honor her Plains heritage. A consistent fan favorite whose pieces move from runway to collectors quickly.
Himikalas Pamela Baker
Squamish / Kwakiutl / Tlingit / Haida
Her TOC (Touch of Culture) designs are among the most recognized in Indigenous fashion for their dramatic scale and deep cultural resonance.
Jontay Kahm
Plains Cree
A compelling rising voice in contemporary Indigenous design, bringing fresh perspective and modern construction to traditional visual language.
💡
Pro Tip
Many designers offer pieces for purchase at on-site trunk shows during the event. Arriving early at the Creatives Market on Friday gives you the best selection before popular pieces find new homes.
🌟 Two Fashion Moments, One City — Don’t Miss August Too
Here is something most travel guides miss entirely: Santa Fe gives you two incredible Indigenous fashion experiences every year. If the May event sparks your interest, the August show will make you a permanent convert.
✦ Spring: SWAIA Native Fashion Week — May 8–9, 2026 at the Eldorado Hotel & Spa. An intimate, curated weekend with runway shows, designer markets, and the Taste of Native Fashion Gala. ✦ Summer: SWAIA Native Fashion Show at Indian Market — August 15–16, 2026 at the Santa Fe Community Convention Center. The runway show that started it all, held during the world’s largest juried Native American art market.
Serious fans of Indigenous fashion plan around both. The August show draws celebrities and dignitaries and runs alongside Indian Market, meaning you can spend the weekend browsing fine art, jewelry, pottery, and textiles from over 1,000 Native artists — then watch an extraordinary runway show that evening.
Learn more in our guide to the Santa Fe Indian Market. And yes, you will want to book your lodging for that weekend early too.
🧭 Planning Your Trip — What First-Timers Need to Know
What to Expect at Each Event Type
The Native Creatives Market has a relaxed, gallery-like atmosphere. You will browse directly with designers, ask questions, and potentially purchase one-of-a-kind pieces. Dress is casual to smart-casual. The Gala is a true fashion event — guests dress to impress. Think of it as your opportunity to be part of the fashion moment, not just an observer of it.
Free vs. Ticketed Events
The Creatives Market on both Friday and Saturday is free and open to the public. The Saturday evening Gala is ticketed. Check SWAIA’s website for 2026 ticket availability and pricing as announcements are made.
Santa Fe in May — What to Pack
Santa Fe sits at 7,000 feet above sea level. May is one of the most beautiful times to visit — warm days, cool evenings, and low humidity. Expect daytime temperatures in the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit and evenings that drop into the 40s. Layers are your best friend. Comfortable walking shoes matter too, since downtown Santa Fe is best explored on foot between venues, galleries, and restaurants.
Getting Around
With the 2026 event centered at the Eldorado Hotel & Spa on West San Francisco Street, you are just a short walk from the historic Plaza, Canyon Road galleries, and dozens of acclaimed restaurants. Staying downtown puts everything within easy reach without needing a car during fashion week.
🏡 Where to Stay for Native Fashion Week Santa Fe
Let us be straightforward about something: Santa Fe is a small city with high demand during major cultural events. Indian Market weekend has booked out months in advance for years. Fashion Week in May is following the same pattern as the event gains national recognition. If you are planning to attend in 2026, now is the time to secure your lodging.
We know Santa Fe well. Our local team is here year-round, which means we can match you to the right property for your group, your travel style, and the way you like to unwind after a day on the runway.
🏨 Fort Marcy Hotel Suites
Ideally positioned within walking distance of the historic Plaza and steps from the Cross of the Martyrs, Fort Marcy offers sun-drenched views of Santa Fe alongside the convenience of a true downtown location. For fashion week attendees, the walkability here is simply unmatched.
A refined sanctuary nestled in a gated community with resort amenities, Quail Run is an excellent choice for groups, families, or anyone who wants to come home to tranquility after an evening on the runway. A short, easy drive to all Plaza-area events.
Looking for a different size or configuration? Browse our full collection of Santa Fe vacation rentals, from cozy 1-bedroom suites to spacious 4-bedroom homes — perfect for groups traveling together for the event.
Book with Confidence
We understand that your Santa Fe vacation is more than a getaway — it is where you create memories that last a lifetime. Every booking through All Seasons Resort Lodging comes with protections designed to give you complete peace of mind:
Some events are free and open to the public, including the Native Creatives Market on both Friday and Saturday. The Saturday evening Gala is a ticketed experience. Check SWAIA’s website for current ticket pricing and availability.
When is SWAIA Native Fashion Week 2026?
SWAIA Native Fashion Week 2026 takes place May 8–9, 2026, at the Eldorado Hotel & Spa in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
What is the difference between “Native Fashion Week” and “Indigenous Fashion Week” in Santa Fe?
Both terms refer to the same general event ecosystem. The event launched in 2024 as SWAIA Indigenous Fashion Week, and the official branding has since evolved to SWAIA Native Fashion Week. A parallel event called Native Fashion Week Santa Fe, organized by curator Amber-Dawn Bear Robe, has also used both terms. For planning purposes, they refer to the same May celebration of Indigenous fashion in Santa Fe.
How is Native Fashion Week different from the Santa Fe Indian Market fashion show?
Native Fashion Week is a dedicated spring event in May focused entirely on fashion — runway shows, designer markets, panels, and parties. The SWAIA Native Fashion Show at Indian Market takes place in August as part of the broader Indian Market weekend, which also features fine art, pottery, jewelry, and cultural performances from over 1,000 Native artists. Both are extraordinary, and both are worth planning a trip around.
When should I book lodging for Native Fashion Week?
As early as possible. Santa Fe is a small city and demand during major cultural events is significant. We recommend securing your lodging several months in advance, especially if you want a specific property or room type. Our team is available seven days a week — call 888-575-2775.
Can I buy Indigenous fashion designs at the event?
Yes. The Native Creatives Market offers a trunk show atmosphere where designers sell ready-to-wear pieces and accessories directly. Arriving early on Friday gives you the best selection before popular pieces sell out.
Who organizes Native Fashion Week in Santa Fe?
SWAIA Native Fashion Week is produced by the Southwestern Association for Indian Arts (SWAIA), an organization with over 100 years of history supporting Indigenous art and culture. The parallel Native Fashion Week Santa Fe is curated by Amber-Dawn Bear Robe, a member of the Siksika Nation and 2023 Canadian Arts and Fashion Changemaker Award recipient.
Ready to Make It a Santa Fe Fashion Week Trip?
Santa Fe in May is spectacular — warm desert days, cool piñon-scented evenings, and a cultural energy unlike anywhere else in the country. Let our local team help you find the perfect home base for your fashion week experience.
Picture this: you step out of a sun-warmed adobe casita on a crisp May morning, coffee in hand, a signed copy of a book tucked under your arm — and the author who just signed it is speaking again in two hours, a short walk away. That is what the Santa Fe International Literary Festival offers, and in 2026, it may be the finest version of the event yet.
Judy Blume. Isabel Wilkerson. George Saunders. Ocean Vuong. Ada Limón. The 2026 lineup is extraordinary — and sessions are already selling out. If you are planning to attend, now is the time to get your tickets and your lodging sorted. Downtown Santa Fe fills fast around major events, and the best vacation rentals go first.
We have been welcoming guests to Santa Fe since 1999. In this guide, we cover everything you need to know about the festival — the authors, the tickets, the schedule, what to pack, and exactly where to stay to make the most of your weekend in the City Different.
The Santa Fe International Literary Festival celebrates writers of all ages — including this community stage performance at the 2023 festival. Photo: Tira Howard Photography.
🏛️ What Is the Santa Fe International Literary Festival?
The Santa Fe International Literary Festival is one of the most exciting literary gatherings in the American West — and it has grown remarkably fast. Founded by local author Carmella Padilla, publicist Clare Hertel, and longtime editor and publisher Mark Bry, the festival launched in 2022 and by 2026 has become a genuine international event drawing authors and readers from across the country and around the world.
The theme for 2026 is “stories unite us” — a sentiment that feels especially resonant right now. Over three days, the festival brings together more than 30 events including big-stage author presentations, intimate concurrent sessions, Walk & Talk tours through downtown Santa Fe, and Literary Day Trips into the broader region before and after the festival weekend.
The venue is the Santa Fe Community Convention Center at 201 W. Marcy Street, a LEED-certified green building tucked into the heart of historic downtown. It is hard to imagine a better setting. Canyon Road’s galleries, the Santa Fe Plaza, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, and dozens of independent restaurants are all within a short walk.
Why Santa Fe Is the Perfect Host City
Santa Fe holds the designation of UNESCO Creative City of Literature — one of only a handful of American cities to earn that recognition. The city’s literary tradition stretches back centuries, from indigenous oral storytelling traditions to the wave of poets and writers drawn here by the dazzling light and high-desert landscape.
May is also one of the best months to visit. Afternoons warm to the low-to-mid 70s°F under nearly constant sunshine, while mornings carry a refreshing chill. The summer crowds haven’t arrived yet, the wildflowers are blooming, and the city feels genuinely alive without feeling overwhelmed.
📚 2026 Featured Authors: Who You’ll See
The 2026 lineup is the most decorated in the festival’s history. Here is a look at who is taking the stage:
Author
Known For
Why They Matter
Judy Blume
Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret; Forever
Once lived in Santa Fe and holds a deep fondness for the city — she is expected to close the festival.
Isabel Wilkerson
Caste; The Warmth of Other Suns
Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist; likely to open the festival.
George Saunders
Lincoln in the Bardo; Tenth of December
Booker Prize winner and 2025 National Book Foundation Medal honoree.
Ocean Vuong
On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous; The Emperor of Gladness
National Book Award finalist; in conversation with Rebecca Solnit. Already sold out.
Ada Limón
The Hurting Kind; Bright Dead Things
Current US Poet Laureate — her first appearance at this festival.
Rebecca Solnit
A Field Guide to Getting Lost; Men Explain Things to Me
Iconic essayist and cultural critic; one of the most celebrated nonfiction writers of our time.
Alison Bechdel
Fun Home; Are You My Mother?
The first graphic novelist to appear at the Santa Fe Literary Festival.
James McBride
The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store; The Color of Water
National Book Award winner with one of the most-loved voices in American literature.
Carl Hiaasen
Squeeze Me; Strip Tease; Skinny Dip
Beloved comic satirist whose work spans fiction, journalism, and children’s books.
Lauren Groff
Matrix; Fates and Furies
Two-time National Book Award finalist celebrated for lyrical, ambitious fiction.
Jason De León
The Land of Open Graves; Soldiers and Kings
MacArthur Fellow, archaeologist, and award-winning author of nonfiction on migration.
⚠️ Heads up: Several sessions — including Ocean Vuong in conversation with Rebecca Solnit and all Weekend Bundle passes — are already sold out. Check the official waitlist and buy remaining tickets early at redziaevents.com.
🎟️ Tickets, Schedule, and How the Festival Works
Ticket Types and Pricing
Individual session tickets start at $25. The festival uses a tiered system — here is how it breaks down:
Ticket Type
What’s Included
Best For
Weekend Bundle
Full access pass — all sessions
Dedicated literary festival fans (SOLD OUT)
Premium
Priority seating + select extras
Those who want the best seats in the house
Choice
Mid-tier reserved seating
Most attendees — great value
General Admission
Standard open seating
Budget-conscious festival goers
Free Poetry Readings
No ticket required
Drop-in visitors and curious locals
Educator / Student / Librarian
Free (New Mexico residents)
NM teachers, librarians, and students
Purchase tickets and check session availability at redziaevents.com.
What Happens Each Day
The festival runs Friday May 15 through Sunday May 17. Each day has a satisfying rhythm once you settle into it. Morning meditation sessions and Walk & Talk tours kick things off — these smaller group experiences tend to be among the most memorable parts of the weekend. From there, main stage author presentations fill the day, with concurrent sessions in the Community Gallery running at the same time for those who want a more intimate setting.
Two of the festival’s most distinctive experiences run each day: a Walk & Talk at the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, where the museum librarian shares insights into O’Keeffe’s literary life, and a spirits tasting at Sazón restaurant with Chef Fernando Olea, featuring a flight of mezcals and Olea’s famous moles. Both have been enormously popular — check availability early.
Every evening closes with a complimentary cocktail reception in the Convention Center courtyard, hosted by Tumbleroot Brewery & Distillery with live music by Santa Fe folk favorites John Francis and the Poor Clares. It is one of the best parts of the day — a chance to process what you just heard alongside other readers who love books as much as you do. Food trucks are on-site Saturday and Sunday from 11:30am to 3:30pm.
Tips for Building Your Schedule
Sessions run concurrently — review the full schedule at sfinternationallitfest.org before you arrive and decide your priorities.
The waitlist is real. Cancellations happen, especially in the days leading up to the festival. Check it regularly for sold-out sessions.
Download or print the schedule before you go. Cell signal inside the convention center can be inconsistent.
Children 12 and older are welcome when accompanied by an adult. General admission events are for attendees 18 and up.
🏡 Where to Stay for the Santa Fe Literary Festival
Hotels in downtown Santa Fe fill quickly for major events. Rooms within walking distance of the Plaza often book out weeks — sometimes months — in advance for a weekend like this. But there is a better option that most visitors overlook, and it is one we genuinely recommend for literary festival guests: a vacation rental.
Why a Vacation Rental Works Better for Festival Weekend
Literary festivals are intellectually intense in the best possible way. After a day of author conversations and ideas, you want a real home to return to — not just a hotel room. Here is why a vacation rental changes the experience:
Space to decompress: A proper living room where you can reread passages, talk through ideas, or simply sit quietly with a book you just had signed. That mental space matters more than it sounds.
Kitchen access: Early morning sessions mean you want a real breakfast before heading out. Make coffee and a proper meal in your own kitchen, then walk to the Convention Center at your own pace.
Value for groups and book clubs: The festival actively welcomes book clubs and offers group registration. A 2- or 3-bedroom vacation rental shared among friends costs significantly less per person than individual hotel rooms — and you get a shared gathering space to debrief after each session. Some of the best conversations happen back at the rental at 10pm.
Authentic Santa Fe character: Adobe architecture, kiva fireplaces, exposed wood beams, local arts and crafts. This is what Santa Fe actually feels like — not a chain hotel lobby.
Fort Marcy Hotel Suites — Our Top Pick for Festival Guests 🥇
If you want to stay within easy walking distance of the Convention Center in a property that captures the soul of Santa Fe, Fort Marcy Hotel Suites is our recommendation.
Set on nine acres of landscaped grounds above downtown Santa Fe, Fort Marcy is just five blocks from the Plaza and a pleasant 10-minute downhill walk to the Convention Center. The units are genuine Southwest-style condominiums — not hotel rooms with a kitchenette bolted on. Each comes with a full kitchen, wood-burning kiva fireplace, private balcony with views of the downtown or the mountains, and the kind of comfortable, arts-filled space that feels entirely right for a literary festival weekend.
Fort Marcy Hotel Suites sits on nine acres of landscaped grounds just five blocks from the Santa Fe Plaza — an easy walk to the Convention Center and everything downtown has to offer.
Feature
Details
Location
321 Kearny Ave — 5 blocks from the Plaza, ~10 min walk to the Convention Center
Unit Options
1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom condos (perfect for couples, small groups, and book clubs)
Kitchen
Full kitchen in every unit — ideal for breakfast before morning sessions
Fireplaces
Wood-burning kiva fireplaces in most units
Pool & Hot Tub
Indoor pool and hot tub on property
Parking
Free parking on property — no daily fees
Shuttle
Free local shuttle 8am-11pm (spring and summer)
Breakfast
Complimentary breakfast included
📍 Walkability note: The walk from Fort Marcy to the Plaza is a pleasant 10-minute downhill stroll. The return trip is uphill and takes about 20 minutes — worth knowing when planning for late evening sessions.
Quail Run Santa Fe — For Luxury Seekers
Quail Run Santa Fe offers resort-style luxury with spacious, beautifully appointed interiors — just three miles from downtown and the festival venue.
If you want a resort-level experience with full amenities, Quail Run Santa Fe is three miles from the Plaza in a private gated community on 103 acres. The property features a PGA-rated 9-hole golf course, spa, fitness center, tennis and pickleball courts, and an indoor lap pool. Unit options range from Plaza condos and penthouses to casitas and full homes up to 4,342 square feet. A $90 resort fee unlocks all community amenities. A three-night minimum stay applies.
One of the great pleasures of the Santa Fe Literary Festival is the setting. The Convention Center sits in the most walkable part of the city, and what surrounds it is genuinely world-class. Here is what is within easy reach between sessions:
Canyon Road: More than 200 art galleries line this historic adobe street, about a 15-minute walk from the Convention Center. Go slowly — this is one of the most distinctive art streets in the country.
The Santa Fe Plaza: The living heart of the city — Native American artisan markets under the portal of the Palace of the Governors, independent shops, historic adobe architecture, and endless people-watching.
Georgia O’Keeffe Museum: A natural extension of the festival’s Walk & Talk experience. Even if you don’t join the official tour, the museum is worth an hour of your time between sessions.
Meow Wolf: Santa Fe’s wildly immersive art experience — a perfect evening option after the day’s sessions wrap up and the cocktail reception winds down.
Where to Eat Near the Convention Center
The festival’s free evening cocktail receptions take care of Friday and Saturday nights — but for everything else, you are in excellent hands. Downtown Santa Fe has a remarkable restaurant scene within easy walking distance of the venue:
Morning coffee before sessions: Iconik Coffee Roasters and Revolution Bakery are both beloved by locals.
Lunch between sessions: The food trucks on-site Saturday and Sunday (11:30am-3:30pm) are a convenient option. La Choza is a short walk away for New Mexican classics.
Dinner near the venue: The Shed (a Santa Fe institution for red and green chile), Café Pasqual’s (festive and worth the wait), and Tia Sophia’s (the original breakfast burrito spot) are all within easy reach.
The splurge meal: Sazón, featured in the festival’s official spirits tasting, serves outstanding contemporary Mexican cuisine — reserve ahead for festival weekend.
Extend Your Stay
If your schedule allows, arriving Wednesday or Thursday before the festival and departing Monday or Tuesday after makes the whole experience richer. You avoid the Friday arrival crunch, have time to settle into the city, and can explore Santa Fe at a relaxed pace after the festival ends. The festival itself offers Literary Day Trips around New Mexico before and after the festival weekend — worth looking into if you want a deeper dive into the region’s literary landscape.
Browse our Santa Fe travel guide for more on what to see and do during an extended stay.
✅ Practical Tips for First-Time Festival Visitors
Getting to Santa Fe ✈️
Fly into Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) — about 70 miles from Santa Fe, roughly a 45-minute drive.
Sandia Shuttle offers service from ABQ to Santa Fe for $25 per person, available 24 hours a day by reservation. Fort Marcy Hotel Suites guests can be picked up directly at the property.
The New Mexico Rail Runner offers an approximately one-hour train ride from Albuquerque to Santa Fe’s South Capital station — a scenic and stress-free alternative to driving.
Santa Fe Municipal Airport handles limited service flights and is closer to downtown for some routes.
Parking at the Festival 🚗
The Convention Center’s underground parking garage is at 119 S. Federal Place: $1 for the first hour, $2 per additional hour, $12 daily maximum.
Fort Marcy Hotel Suites guests have free parking on-site and access to a free local shuttle — meaning you may not need a car for the festival weekend at all.
What to Wear and Pack 🎒
Santa Fe in May has gorgeous weather, but it requires some thought. Mornings start cool — often in the low 40s°F — and warm to the low-to-mid 70s°F by afternoon. Dress in layers you can peel off as the day warms up.
Santa Fe sits at over 7,000 feet above sea level. The sun is intense even in May, and first-time visitors are often surprised by how quickly they burn. Sunscreen and sunglasses are not optional — they are essential.
Comfortable walking shoes (you will log several miles a day between sessions)
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
A reusable water bottle — high desert air is dry and the altitude increases dehydration
Light layers for morning sessions and cool evenings
A tote bag for books — you will absolutely buy some and you will want them signed
Day-of Logistics
Arrive 15-20 minutes early for popular sessions. Seating for main stage events fills quickly.
The Convention Center courtyard is a wonderful spot to gather between sessions — the afternoon light in Santa Fe is something special.
Check the official schedule for any last-minute changes or additions.
Children 12 and older are welcome with an adult. Most general admission events require attendees to be 18 or older.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About the Santa Fe Literary Festival
When is the Santa Fe International Literary Festival in 2026?
The 2026 Santa Fe International Literary Festival takes place May 15-17, 2026 (Friday through Sunday) at the Santa Fe Community Convention Center, 201 W. Marcy Street, in historic downtown Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Who are the featured authors at the 2026 Santa Fe Literary Festival?
The 2026 lineup includes Judy Blume, Isabel Wilkerson, George Saunders, Ocean Vuong, Ada Limón, Rebecca Solnit, Alison Bechdel, James McBride, Carl Hiaasen, Lauren Groff, and Jason De León, among others. Several sessions are already sold out — including Ocean Vuong in conversation with Rebecca Solnit and all Weekend Bundle passes.
How much are tickets for the Santa Fe Literary Festival?
Individual session tickets start at $25. Ticket tiers include General Admission, Choice, and Premium seating. Weekend Bundle passes are sold out for 2026. Free tickets are available for New Mexico educators, students, and librarians through the festival’s free ticket request form.
Where is the Santa Fe International Literary Festival held?
The festival is held at the Santa Fe Community Convention Center at 201 W. Marcy Street in downtown Santa Fe — a LEED-certified building within walking distance of the historic Plaza, Canyon Road galleries, and the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum.
What is the best place to stay for the Santa Fe Literary Festival?
Fort Marcy Hotel Suites, managed by All Seasons Resort Lodging, is just five blocks from the Santa Fe Plaza and offers 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom condo-style units with full kitchens, wood-burning fireplaces, and a free local shuttle. It is our top recommendation for festival attendees — especially book club groups traveling together.
Is the Santa Fe Literary Festival good for book clubs?
Yes — the festival actively welcomes book clubs and offers a group registration option. Multi-bedroom vacation rentals like Fort Marcy Hotel Suites give book club groups a shared gathering space to debrief after each session, and cost significantly less per person than individual hotel rooms.
What should I pack for the Santa Fe Literary Festival in May?
Pack layers — May mornings in Santa Fe drop to the low 40s°F while afternoons warm to the low-to-mid 70s°F. Sunscreen and sunglasses are essential at 7,000 feet elevation. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a reusable water bottle, and a tote bag for the books you will buy and have signed.
Book Your Festival Stay
The 2026 Santa Fe International Literary Festival is shaping up to be the most ambitious event in its short history — and the sold-out sessions are proof of how quickly word has spread. If you are planning to attend, don’t wait on lodging. Fort Marcy Hotel Suites books up around major Santa Fe events, and downtown properties go fast.
We would love to help you plan a stay that makes the most of this weekend. Whether you are coming solo with a list of sessions already mapped out, traveling with a partner, or organizing a book club trip for a group of friends, we have options that will feel like exactly the right home base for a festival like this.
Call us at 888-575-2775 — we are available seven days a week, 9am-5pm Mountain Time.
For luxury travelers, Quail Run Santa Fe offers a resort-level experience three miles from the Plaza — golf, spa, tennis
Park City has been named one of the world’s top 20 snowboarding resorts by Tavel + Leisure. It’s no surprise. Park City Mountain Resort has over 7,300 acres of terrain to explore, powder to shred, and parks to dial in your tricks. The town’s après-ski culture is just as iconic, balancing laid-back vibes with lively spots to unwind after a day on the mountain. In the sections ahead, we’ll uncover what the hype is all about. We’ll dive into the mountain’s terrain, the rentals to help you level up, and everything in between, including all the options for Park City Snowboard rentals for your trip.
Snowboarding Park City Mountain Terrain
Park City Ski Resort winter trail map.
Now that we’ve established why Park City is so special let’s explore what makes its snowboarding terrain second to none.
Park City Resort, the largest resort in the US, has two distinct sides. Therefore, having a plan for snowboarding at Park City is important. Otherwise, you’ll spend most of your vacation going back and forth, trying to navigate the lift system and Park City Mountain.
Below is a breakdown of the terrain types available for every kind of snowboarder at Park City Mountain. If you’re new to snowboarding, Park City Mountain offers various trails designed to build confidence and develop your skills. Beginner trails are marked with a green circle. Most beginner-friendly trails can be found on the Canyons Village side of the resort.
🏂 First Time. The First Time trail is a gentle, beginner-friendly slope perfect for first-time skiers to practice basic skills like turning and pole position. Accessible via the First Time lift at the base.
🏂 Homerun Slopes. Home Run is a 3.5-mile green trail suitable for both snowboarders and skiers, with some sections resembling a blue square in difficulty. It’s perfect for beginners and intermediates still honing their skills, offering a gentle descent from the top of the Pioneer chairlift down to the Park City Mountain Village Base Area. This makes it the easiest route to the base from the mid and upper areas of the mountain.
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Canyons Village Side:
🏂 Magic Carpet Run. Canyons Village features several magic carpets for beginners, allowing parents to relax nearby while keeping an eye on their little ones.
🏂 Raptor Way. Raptor Way is a fantastic bunny slope accessible via the Sunrise Lift, Red Pine Gondola, and the Orange Bubble Express. It’s one of the most highly recommended beginner ski runs at Park City.
🏂 Sweet Pea Magic Carpet. The Sweet Pea Magic Carpet, situated just behind the Red Pine Lodge, is an excellent place to build your confidence and get comfortable on your board.
🏂 High Meadow Area. High Meadow Park is a dedicated learning area on the Canyons Village side with mild slopes, improved snowmaking capabilities, and a fast, four-passenger lift.
Park City Mountain Intermediate Trails 🟦
Mountain Village Side:
🏂 Parley’s Park. Parley’s Park is an intermediate ski run at Park City Mountain Resort that begins near the Summit House Lodge, accessible from the Silverlode, Motherlode, and Bonanza chairlifts. The trail descends to the base area, where it connects to the Silverlode Express chairlift, Quicksilver Gondola, and Miners Camp Lodge.
🏂 Georgeanna. Georgeanna is a long, winding trail that’s good for intermediate skiers and offers great views. To ride take the Silverlode lift, exit left, and follow Homerun to Mid-Mountain. Go to the bottom of McConkey’s Express and exit left. Continue onto Georgeanna.
🏂 Quit’n Time. Quit’N Time is a popular ski run that provides access to Park City’s Old Town district, making it a great spot to explore around lunchtime or for après-ski at the end of the day. Located just off the PayDay run, it can be accessed via the PayDay lift or Town Lift.
🏂 King Con. King Con is an intermediate ski run at Park City Mountain Resort, starting from the top of the King Con Express chairlift. The trail descends to the Miners Camp Lodge, the Silverlode Express chairlift base, and the Quicksilver Gondola Park City station. Wide and straight with a moderate pitch, the trail is usually groomed and runs to the Miners Camp area.
Canyons Village Side:
🏂 Doc’s Run. Doc’s Run offers scenic views of the village area and the open space of Swaner Preserve and Ecocenter. This run features a consistent pitch that allows you to glide smoothly into Canyons Village, but be cautious—while it’s a designated slow zone, it has some steeper sections and can get icy toward the end of the day.
🏂 Tombstone. In 2024, Park City Mountain added Tombstone Alley, an intermediate run in the Canyons Village area. Accessible via the Tombstone Express lift or the Chicane run, Tombstone Alley winds through trees and offers a fun, moderate challenge for skiers.
🏂 Peak 5. Peak 5 at Park City Mountain Resort features challenging terrain, including the Peak 5 Abyss, known for being some of the most difficult lift-serviced slopes in the area. Skiers begin at the top of Mystic Pines and enter the woods through the third gate from the lift to access the Abyss.
🏂 Another World. Another World is a 2-mile blue ski run near Park City, Utah. This downhill-only trail can be skied in both directions and offers a moderate physical challenge, with no uphill climbs. It’s a great option for skiers looking for a fun and manageable run.
Not all blue runs are created equal. Some can be classified as light blue, others are true blue, while some dark blue runs feature challenging terrain, including steep pitches. To ensure you are on a blue run that matches your ability, you can check trail maps, look for signs at lift lines, and ask instructors or staff about the run you have chosen. This will ensure that you have chosen a run that matches your ability level.
A good way to ease into black runs is by seeking out trails once labeled double-blue. These runs provide a more gradual transition to black diamonds’ steeper, more challenging terrain. Checking oldertrail maps from around 2015 can help you identify which runs have been reclassified.
Snowboarding powder on Park City’s 9990 chairlift.
Park City Mountain Black Diamond Trails ⚠️
Mountain Village Side:
🏂 McConkey’s Bowl. McConkey’s Bowl is a challenging double-black run at Park City Mountain, known for its steep moguls and tree-lined terrain. The bowl offers an intense ride for advanced boarders, with the bonus of stunning 360-degree views from the summit.
🏂 Sundog. Sundog is a black diamond run that starts steep at the entrance, offering a challenging first few turns. As you make your way up the lift, you’ll spot Sundog along the right side of McConkey’s Express. This run is ideal for snowboarders seeking steeper terrain and stunning views but without the intensity of a double-black diamond. Riding down to Mid Mountain Lodge after a fresh snowfall is especially fun when the turns are soft and enjoyable.
🏂 Jupiter Bowl. Jupiter Bowl is Park City’s premier double-black terrain, offering some of the best advanced to expert in-bounds riding anywhere. Located on the Park City side of the resort, you can access Jupiter either by taking the Jupiter lift or hiking a short distance from McConkey’s Express.
🏂 Scott’s Bowl. Scott’s Bowl is a steep, challenging run on the northeast side of Scott Hill. The terrain can be wind-scarred, but when the conditions are right, it offers fantastic boarding conditions. To reach Scott’s Bowl from the side, head toward Pinecone Ridge. From the summit, follow the path to Scott Hill. This area is designated as experts-only terrain.
Canyons Village Side:
🏂 Aplande. Aplande, accessible from the Super Condor Express lift at Park City, is a challenging black diamond run that faces north, helping it retain fresh snow longer after storms. Stretching over 2,753 feet, this long run gives skiers ample space to make multiple turns with a hard physical rating.
🏂 Sidewinder. Sidewinder offers a unique black run from the top of the Tombstone Express lift that flows naturally with the mountain’s contours. Instead of being a straight descent or a side slope, it meanders in a way that makes for a fun ride. Originally a double-blue, Sidewinder has since been reclassified as a black run, and it provides a great challenge, especially when the conditions are not icy.
🏂 The Drop. The Drop is a black diamond (advanced) ski run located on the Canyons side of Park City Mountain, accessible via the Tombstone Express lift. It offers a challenging descent for experienced skiers seeking more difficult terrain.
Park City also offers several terrain parks and halfpipes for freestyle riders. These cater to a range of skill levels and are perfect for practicing tricks and jumps. Continue reading for a different kind of challenge and to mix up your riding experience.
💡Food Tip: Shredding all day works up an appetite. Here’s a list of on-mountain restaurants where you can conveniently refuel and recharge.
Legends Bar & Grill (Mountain Village – Near Payday Lift)
Jupiter Java (Mountain Village – Near Jupiter Lift)
Legacy Café (Mountain Village – Near Legacy Lift)
Murdock’s Café and Pizzeria (Mountain Village – Near the Base of Payday Lift)
Lookout Cabin (Canyons Village – Near Silverlode Lift)
Red Tail Grill (Canyons Village – Base of Orange Bubble Express Lift)
The Farm (Canyons Village – Near Cabriolet Lift)
First Tracks (Canyons Village – Top of First Tracks Lift)
Cloud Dine (Canyons Village – Near the top of Silverlode Lift)
Tombstone Grill (Canyons Village – Near Tombstone Express Lift)
Summit House (Canyons Village – Top of Silverlode Lift)
Mid-Mountain Lodge (Canyons Village – Base of McConkey’s Express Lift)
Red Pine Lodge (Canyons Village – Top of Red Pine Gondola)
Umbrella Bar (Canyons Village – Base of Quicksilver Lift)
Summit House (Park City Mountain Resort – Top of Bonanza Lift and Top of Motherlode Lift)
Exploring Park City Terrain Parks
Park City’s 3 Kings terrain park.
Park City’s terrain parks are some of the best in the world. Top-tier freestyle snowboarders from around the world regularly touch down at Salt Lake City International Airport to experience the meticulously designed features, large jumps, and well-crafted rails. Throughout the year, Park City hosts prestigious events like the FIS World Cup, U.S. Snowboard Team training camps, and the Park City Grand Prix, which are key fixtures on the global snowboarding calendar. Snowboarders—from Olympic medalists to X Games champions—train and compete on the resort’s six terrain parks and halfpipe, and now, you can too.
Mountain Village Side:
🏂 Little Kings Park. Little Kings Terrain Park at Park City Mountain Resort is a beginner-friendly park designed to help new skiers and snowboarders build their skills. Featuring jumps ranging from 5 to 20 feet, the park ensures a forgiving landing for those still mastering their technique. It also offers easy-to-approach boxes, tubes, and rails, perfect for practicing transitions onto features. Additionally, berm turns provide a fun, controlled way to practice carving. It is located just below Jonesey’s Run and accessible from the Bonanza Lift.
🏂 Pick Axe Park. Pick Axe Park at Park City Mountain is perfect for emerging intermediates looking to progress their freestyle skills. Located at the Mountain Village base, the resort’s mining heritage inspires this park and features medium-sized jumps, rails, and boxes designed to help riders improve their tricks and techniques.
🏂 3 Kings. Three Kings Terrain Park, located at the base of Park City Mountain, is a premier park visible from the lower parking lot near the First Time lift. Accessible by its dedicated lift, Three Kings is known for its world-class features, including large jumps, rails, and halfpipes that attract top athletes from around the globe. The park boasts jumps ranging from 20 to over 60 feet, designed with steeper takeoffs and landings to provide maximum airtime. It offers a true big-league experience for those looking to push their limits in freestyle riding.
🏂 Pipes. Park City features six natural pipes, one superpipe, and one mini pipe. They vary in size and difficulty, making them ideal for beginners up to advanced riders. The superpipe is ideal for advanced or competitive snowboarders seeking to push their limits. Beginner riders can hone their skills on the smaller and more forgiving minipipe.
Canyons Village Side:
🏂 Transitions Park. Just off the Sun Peak lift in Canyons Village, Transitions Terrain Park is an intermediate-friendly slopestyle park tucked in the trees. With a mix of well-built jumps (10–25 feet), rails, boxes, and jibs, it provides an excellent space for riders to progress at their own pace. The park is less crowded, making it ideal for practicing without onlookers.
Woodward Park City:
🏂 Woodward Park City. Woodward Park City is its own lift-served area and features a variety of areas, including learning zones and large freestyle zones, regardless of your ability level. They also offer a four-week freestyle snowboarding program for kids ages 7-17, designed to teach advanced beginners and intermediate riders the basics of freestyle tricks.
Navigating Park City
There are endless opportunities to challenge yourself snowboarding on Park City slopes. With its vast network of runs, terrain parks, and freestyle zones, it may initially be overwhelming. But once you get the lay of the land, you’ll quickly find your rhythm and enjoy all the mountain has to offer.
Park City’s runs are marked with color-coded difficulty levels to help you quickly find trails suited to your ability level.
Park City’s Quicksilver Gondola connects the Mountain Village with the Canyons Village.
Getting from Mountain Village to Canyons Village
To snowboard from Park City’s Mountain Village to the Canyons Village side, ride the Quicksilver Gondola at the Silverlode Express’s base. At the top, you can exit the gondola and then ride down to the Dreamcatcher, Iron Mountain Express, or Timberline chairlifts to reach the Canyons Village area. This route provides a convenient way to navigate between the two mountain sections of the resort.
Getting from Canyons Village to Mountain Village
To get from Canyons Village to Mountain Village, take the Iron Mountain Express chairlift up the mountain and then ride the Quicksilver Gondola to cross between the two village areas. When heading from Canyons to Mountain Village, it’s recommended to stay on to the base of the Quicksilver Gondola rather than getting off at the top, as the trail can have some uphill sections that are difficult to navigate on a snowboard. Once at the bottom, hop on the Silverlode Express or continue down to the King Con Express.
Frequently Ask Questions
Does Park City allow snowboarding?
Yes, Park City Mountain Resort allows snowboarding. They hosted the 2002 Winter Olympic snowboard halfpipe event when three Americans swept the podium: Ross Powers (gold), Danny Kass (silver), and JJ Thomas (bronze).
Does Deer Valley allow snowboarding?
No, Deer Valley does not allow snowboarding. Deer Valley is one of three resorts in the world that still does not allow snowboarding. The other two are Alta, also in Utah, and Mad River Glen in Vermont.
Does Woodward Park City allow snowboarding?
Woodward Park City allows snowboarding and is very snowboard-friendly.
Olympic gold medal winner and Park City native, Sage Kotsenburg backflipping in Park City.
Conclusion
This guide will help you navigate and plan your adventure. To create an unforgettable experience, consider lodging near runs suited to your ability level. Our article on ski-in/ski-out lodgings will help you narrow down your base choices. Alternatively, you can contact one of our staff for personalized recommendations based on your unique needs.
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