Park City has preserved nearly 10,000 acres of open space through strategic acquisitions and planning processes, according to data from the City of Park City. This conservation effort, supported by significant voter-approved funding, aims to balance community recreation with the protection of local wildlife and natural habitats.
Wildlife Protection and Trail Access
The City of Park City reported that its total preserved land includes 4,680 acres of city-owned open space and 5,241 acres of easements or deed restrictions involving properties such as PCMR, Deer Valley, Osguthorpe, and Warren. This brings the total area to 9,921 acres. Additionally, Round Valley comprises approximately 2,100 acres.
To protect local ecosystems, the Bonanza Loop Trail and Tall T trail were closed for the 2026 season on October 1. This annual closure, which runs from October 1 through July 1, is designed to provide space for elk, moose, deer, and other species during the fall rut. The City stated that this seasonal measure is part of an adaptive management plan intended to balance conservation values with public recreation.
While certain areas are restricted, other trails in the vicinity remain open to the public, including the Lupine Loop, Lackawaxen, Bloods Lake Trail, and Little Quakies.
Voter Support for Open Space Bonds
Public support for land preservation in Park City has been characterized by significant voter approval for general obligation bonds. The community has supported five general obligation bonds totaling $110 million, with approval margins exceeding 73%.
Historical bond data shows a consistent trend of community backing for open space initiatives:
In 1998, a $10 million bond passed with 78% approval.
In 2002, a $10 million bond passed with 83% approval.
In 2006, a $20 million bond passed with 82% approval.
In 2016, a $25 million bond passed with 79% approval.
In 2018, a $45 million bond passed with 77% approval.
Land Acquisition and Management
The City Council manages open space funding through various mechanisms, including the Additional Resort Sales Tax (ARST). The Council budgeted $15 million for a five-year period starting in FY2014.
Acquisition of new open space typically occurs when properties face ownership or development pressure. The City utilizes several methods to secure land, such as purchasing property outright or buying conservation easements that remove development density. The City also frequently works with qualified land trusts, including the Summit Land Conservancy and Utah Open Lands, to hold third-party preservation easements.
To ensure timely recommendations for land acquisition, the City Council has traditionally appointed a Citizens Open Space Advisory Committee (COSAC) following each bond approval. The most recent COSAC was responsible for overseeing two bonds that identified specific properties for acquisition, including Bonanza Flat, Armstrong Snow Ranch Pastures, and Treasure Hill. Once the funds for those specific bonds were exhausted, the committee was disbanded.
Maintenance and Conservation Efforts
Maintaining these vast areas requires active management. The City of Park City handles open space maintenance, including weed mitigation, trail construction, and trail maintenance, either directly or through contracts with private entities or non-profit organizations.
One such partner is the Mountain Trails Foundation, which assists in the upkeep of these natural areas. The City noted that having budgeted funds available is essential for the Council to remain nimble when opportunities arise to buy down density or purchase conservation easements.
Future Preservation Goals
The City of Park City continues to prioritize the balance between urban development and environmental stewardship. Through the combination of taxpayer-funded bonds, sales tax revenue, and strategic partnerships with land trusts and non-profits, the city maintains a large network of protected lands for both wildlife and residents.
