We are proud to announce the grand re-opening of Round Valley Express trail. This newly improved and aligned pathway provides a contiguous 3-mile connection between Quinn’s Junction trailhead and Highland Dr., traversing the center of Round Valley.
This project was aimed at enhancing usability, navigation, and long-term sustainability. The year-round benefits stem from an improved surface that can be used in a variety of weather conditions. The improvements allow passage for wider adaptive equipment and will help winter grooming by providing a consistent even surface that requires minimal snow coverage for grooming.
We know that Round Valley Express will quickly become a mainstay of the Round Valley experience, please join us as we thank those who made it possible. $250,000 in funding from the Summit Country RAP Recreation Tax Grant and MTF donors, collaboration from Park City Municipal Trails and Open Space Department and Summit Land Conservancy, Basin Recreation, and a herculean effort from our contractor Chase Smith of Race n Chase.
Mountain Trails Foundation is proud to have orchestrated this project and provide it to YOU, the public!
A little backstory….
Traveling from Quinn’s trailhead to Highland Drive through Round Valley utilizes a patchwork of historic ranch roads and trails that date back to the area’s use as a ranch. Significant portions of these roads and trails had deteriorated to the point where their viability, even as singletrack, was questionable in some spots, flat out dangerous in others, and often not conducive to high-quality winter grooming. Other sections were subject to seasonal flooding, which created deep ruts and hazards that required regular and costly rebuilding.
Mountain Trails Foundation, in coordination with landowner, Park City Municipal, developed a plan to improve the entire route. We connected and improved existing sections of the trail and rerouted unsustainable portions. By implementing appropriate drainage features, applying road-base material, and constructing a long-lasting surface, we’ve created something that can be enjoyed by a wide range of users year-round and for generations to come. Wayfinding is eased by naming the entire trail, start to finish, Round Valley Express.
Happy Trails!
Ian Hartley, Resource Manager
