Jordanelle 8/3

Everyone knows Utah for the great skiing. But the water's pretty nice even when it's not frozen. The Park City area has a few reservoirs that are great for boating in the summer.


(The gang.)

Closest to Park City is the Jordanelle Reservoir. It can get busy but is still pretty nice if you time it right and know where on the lake to go. I've got friends with a boat (that we don't use nearly enough -- hint hint) and we get out when we can.

We mostly enjoy water skiing and wake boarding. But it can be nice just hanging out on the boat and enjoying the sun.


(Me getting a little air.)

If Jordanelle is too busy for you, there are several more reservoirs in the area. Rockport is also close. Deer Creek if you are coming from the south. Echo to the east. And East to the north (don't ask). Little Dell doesn't allow power boats but is great for fishing or paddling.


(Gear.)

If you go, take your sunscreen and be safe.

'til later,
- Jeff

Utah Symphony @ Deer Valley 7/19

On July 19 I had the opportunity to see the Utah Symphony perform at the outdoor amphitheater at Deer Valley. I've seen plenty of the free Wednesday concerts there before and always enjoyed them. But this was something way more awesome. I'd never seen the symphony play before. And I can't imagine a better venue.


(Concert goers early in the evening.)

While there is some premium reserved seating, I recommend going for general admission. You can take your blanket and picnic basket and spread out with friends. And viewing from anywhere on the hillside is still excellent.

Early in the evening they played some patriotic favorites and well as a few crowd pleasers. I'd never seen any symphony play Billy Joel or Elvis but it was fun to hear.


(Live canons brought in for the performance.)

The main event was Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture. I didn't know this one by name, but recognized some of the music. It was pretty cool when they fired the live canons near the end. It caught a few of us by surprise but it was a pleasant surprise.


(As the sun went down.)

If you ever get the chance, be sure to check out one of the evening concerts at Deer Valley. As I mentioned, there's quite a variety from the free concerts on Wednesday nights to some big name concerts throughout the summer. And definitely check out the Utah Symphony performing there sometime too.

'til later,
- Jeff

Independence Day Parade 7/4

The Fourth of July is always a fun day in Park City.

It starts with a 5k run at the Park City Mountain Resort. You can't believe how many people show up for a local race. It's a great time whether you're competing to win or just out for a jog.

Next up is the pancake breakfast at City Park. Great way to refuel after the race.

Then comes the military flyover. If that doesn't make you feel patriotic, I don't know what will.


(An old fire truck.)

Then comes the parade. It's pretty impressive for a little town. Lots of float but most with a pretty local feel. And tons and tons of spectators. It's really a fun day to be out on the town.


(Street luge.)


(That's *real* snow!!! In July!!!)


(Anyone need a beer?)

Finally, there's a BBQ and live music at City Park. This is a great place to go relax for a bit after the parade. Take a blanket and lay out with friends and just enjoy the day.



And, of course, there are fireworks later in the evening at Park City Mountain Resort.

If you ever get the chance, head up to Park City some year on the 4th of July. You'll enjoy it.

'til later,
- Jeff