I’m always asked the question, “where can I hike with my dogs off leash?” Well, there’s a new hiking trail in Kimball Junction near Park City that’s just for dogs to run and wander free. The Run-A-Muk trail opened last year below the Utah Olympic Park, and it’s since become a popular hangout for pooches who want to be free.
Run-A-Muk is a fenced, off-leash area that encompasses 43 acres of land. A two-mile trail loop winds through sage brush flats and stands of aspen trees. The hike is easy and the trail is well maintained. Although a small stream runs through the upper part of the area, there is little water or shade, so bring plenty for your dogs to drink. Also, be sure to pick up your dog’s droppings when you visit.
There are both short and long loops, so you have many hiking options. You can do an out and back from the upper parking lot to the lower, you can hike the long loop, or take a quick jaunt on the short loop if you’re short on time. Of course dogs don’t limit themselves to trails, and the land between the loops is full of open space where dogs can run, jump, and play. The trail is open year round, so you can go nordic skiing with your dogs when the ground is covered with snow.
To get to the Run-A-Muk dog trail, take I-80 to the Kimball Junction exit and drive south toward Park City. Turn right on Olympic Parkway and follow the road up to the parking area and trailhead just before you get to the Utah Olympic Park. You can also park near Whole Foods and take the Millennium Trail south to the trailhead located just north of Bear Cub Drive.
For more information about this and other off-leash hiking areas in Park City, visit basinrecreation.org