The Swaner EcoCenter in Park City has opened its doors as the first newly constructed building in Utah to achieve Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum certification, offering visitors a sustainable way to explore the local preserve.
Visitors to the EcoCenter can engage with the local ecosystem through various specialized activities and educational exhibits. The facility features the Wetland Supermarket Exhibition and a demonstration garden, alongside options for birdwatching, geocaching, and climbing. For those seeking more adventure, the center provides snowshoe rentals and a climbing wall.
The EcoCenter's architecture and layout allow for multiple ways to view the surrounding landscape. Guests can take a walk on a 400-foot pier extending out onto the Preserve or ascend the facility's four-story tower to observe local wildlife. The site also offers LEED Platinum building tours for those interested in the facility's sustainable construction.
To protect sensitive wetland habitats, the majority of the Preserve located south of Interstate 80 is accessible only through guided excursions. The Swaner EcoCenter provides naturalist-led tours, which include Saturday morning nature walks and private guided tours. These programs are designed to teach visitors about wetland science, natural plant and animal species, and the historical background of the Swaner Preserve.
The EcoCenter maintains specific operating hours and accessibility features for its guests. The facility is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. During the months of May through September, the center also opens at 8 a.m. on every third Saturday. While admission is free, the center suggests a $5 donation per person to support its operations.
The EcoCenter has announced upcoming schedule adjustments for August. The facility will close early at 1 p.m. on Saturday, August 8, and Wednesday, August 19. The center is located at 1258 Center Drive in Park City, Utah.
