Explore the elevation of Park City—perched at 7,000 feet in Utah’s Wasatch Mountains, this high-altitude resort town combines world-class skiing, mountain scenery, and film festivals into a beloved year-round destination known for its stunning elevation and alpine charm.

Table of Contents

Where is Park City?

  • Location: Park City is located in Summit County, Utah, just a short drive east of Salt Lake City.

City Profile

  • Nickname: Known as Utah's premier resort town and host of the Sundance Film Festival.
  • Fame: Famous for skiing, film, and Olympic history.
  • Population: Just over 8,300 residents live in the city year-round.
  • Size rank: Small in area (17.5 sq mi), but huge in cultural and economic impact.

Elevation Basics

  • City elevation: Park City is located at 7,000 feet (2,000 m) above sea level.
  • State comparison: Utah’s average elevation is 6,100 feet (1,860 m), making Park City significantly higher.
  • Early name: Originally called Parley’s Park City, after Mormon pioneer Parley P. Pratt.
  • Name change: Shortened to just Park City in the early 20th century.
  • Tourism boost: Popularity surged due to its scenic setting and skiing potential.
  • Major resorts: Home to Park City Mountain and Deer Valley.
  • Olympic spotlight: Hosted events during the 2002 Winter Olympics.

Must-Know Elevation Facts

  • How high is Park City? Park City is at 7,000 feet (2,000 m), much higher than most U.S. cities.
  • U.S. city comparison:
    • New York City: 33 feet (10 m)
    • Los Angeles: 285 feet (87 m)
    • Chicago: 594 feet (181 m)
  • Utah average elevation: 6,100 feet (1,860 m), third highest state behind Colorado and Wyoming.
  • Park City vs. state average: About 900 feet higher than the Utah average.
  • Highest point in Utah: Kings Peak at 13,534 feet (4,125 m).
  • Lowest point in Utah: Beaver Dam Wash at 2,180 feet (664 m).
  • Highest town in Utah: Brian Head, at 9,800 feet (2,987 m).
  • Other Utah cities:
    • Salt Lake City – 4,226 feet (1,288 m)
    • West Valley City – 4,304 feet (1,312 m)
    • Provo – 4,551 feet (1,387 m)
    • West Jordan – 4,373 feet (1,333 m)
  • Comparison: Park City is significantly higher than other major cities in the state.

Climate and Tourism

  • Climate type: Park City has a humid continental climate.
  • Summer temperatures: Average highs of 82°F (28°C) in July.
  • Winter lows: Average lows of 12°F (-11°C) in January.
  • Snowfall: Heavy snowfall from November through April.
  • Biggest event: The Sundance Film Festival, drawing global film industry attention annually.
  • Skiing & Snowboarding: Major winter sports hub with top-tier slopes.
  • Year-round activities: Also offers hiking, cycling, golf, and summer festivals.

Plan Your Trip