When most people think of Park City, they picture ski runs and mountain trails. But come summer, one of the most underrated gems in the area is sitting right at the base of the Wasatch Mountains: Jordanelle Reservoir. Just 10 minutes from downtown Park City, this stunning alpine lake offers some of the best water recreation in Utah and it tends to fly under the radar even for repeat visitors.
The Jordanelle sits along Highway 40 between Park City and Heber City at roughly 6,000 feet elevation. At around 3,000 acres of surface water, there’s plenty of room for motorized boats, paddleboards, and swimmers alike. The views of the surrounding Wasatch Range are genuinely spectacular — the same peaks you’d ski in winter, now reflected in a glassy alpine lake.
Getting There & Access Points
There are three main areas to know (i) Hailstone is the main hub, with a full marina, boat launch, swim beach, rentals, and picnic areas. This is your entry point for motorized watercraft, and day-use fees apply, (ii) Rock Cliff sits on the eastern arm near the Provo River inlet, is non-motorized only, and is ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding, and (iii) Ross Creek on the northern end offering access to biking and hiking trails as well as a boat launch for non-motorized watercraft.
What to Do on the Water
Boating, Wakeboarding & Tubing — Open water and a well-maintained launch ramp at Hailstone make this a legitimate destination for motorized water sports.
Kayaking & Canoeing — The Rock Cliff area is calm, scenic, and great for all skill levels.
Paddleboarding — Flat morning water conditions make Jordanelle a favorite SUP spot. Rentals are available at Hailstone if you don’t have your own board.
Swimming — A designated sandy swim beach at Hailstone is perfect for families. Expect cold, refreshing, mountain-fed water.
Fishing — Rainbow trout, brown trout, and smallmouth bass are all fair game. A valid Utah fishing license is required.
A Few Quick Tips
Go early, as afternoon winds can chop up the water. Sunscreen is a must since UV exposure is high at elevation. And if you’re planning to rent gear on a summer weekend, book in advance — it gets busy!
After a full day on the reservoir, the last thing you want is a long drive. With our numerous properties around the Jordanelle, your access is just seconds from the water, with full kitchens, garages for gear storage, and outdoor spaces perfect for winding down!
Browse our Jordanelle and Deer Valley East Village Rentals and plan your summer stay around the water.
