The 5 Best Gondola Rides Park City, Utah, Has to Offer: Everything You Need to Know

Jan 19, 2026

The 5 Best Gondola Rides Park City, Utah, Has to Offer: Everything You Need to Know
By Andrea Mendoza

The Best Gondolas in Park City, UT

Park City, Utah, is one of those rare destinations where the journey is just as memorable as the adventure itself. With snow-capped peaks in the winter, sun-soaked trail systems in the summer, and mountain villages that feel straight out of a travel magazine, the gondola rides here are more than simple transportation — they’re part of the experience.

Whether you’re visiting for world-class skiing in Park City, scenic sightseeing, mountain biking, dining, or photography, hopping on a gondola is one of the best ways to soak in everything this mountain escape has to offer.

This guide dives deep into the five best gondola rides in Park City, what makes each one special, and everything you need to know before you go — from where to stay to the best places to eat in Park City, hidden-gem photo spots, and fun activities to keep the adventure going. By the time you're done reading, you’ll know exactly how to plan the perfect gondola-filled day in Park City.

Where to Stay Near the Gondolas

When it comes to convenience, Westgate Park City Resort & Spa is hard to beat. Located just 0.3 miles from the gondolas, about a five-minute walk, it puts you right in the heart of Canyons Village. You can step outside, stroll through the village, and be on your way up the mountain without ever needing to load a car or shuttle.

To make things even easier, Westgate offers ski valet service at no additional cost, so your skis or snowboard are handled for you from start to finish. No heavy lifting, no juggling gear — just slip on your boots, grab your gloves, and walk to the gondola while we take care of the rest. It’s one of those small luxuries that makes a big difference, especially during busy snow days.

Guests can enjoy spacious villas, a relaxing spa, saunas and steam rooms (experience your own steamer in your room) indoor/outdoor pools, on-site dining, and unbeatable proximity to Canyons Village. Being this close means you can take breaks throughout the day, warm up, refuel and head right back out whenever the mountain calls. Ask about Westgate’s Edge 360 Alpenglobes Dining Experience! It’s perfect for a date night and definitely worth the experience!

The 5 Best Gondola Rides in Park City, Utah

1. Red Pine Gondola (Canyons Village)

This is one of the most popular lifts in Park City, giving you quick access to mid-mountain terrain, gorgeous views, and Red Pine Lodge. The fully enclosed cabins keep riders warm in winter and comfortable in summer, making it a favorite for both sightseeing and skiing. From the top, you can explore endless hiking and biking trails. The perfect activity for the whole family!

FAQ: Can you bring ski equipment?

Absolutely. The Red Pine Gondola is designed for skiers and snowboarders, with racks or cabin space to hold your gear. It’s one of the main lifts for reaching Canyons Village’s skiing and riding terrain.

Why we love it:

  • Smooth, scenic ride

  • Great for families

  • Ideal for both summer sightseeing and winter sports

  • Easy access to dining and rest areas at the top

WHERE: Red Pine Gondola, Park City, UT 84098

VIEW ON GOOGLE MAPS

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2. Cabriolet Gondola (Canyons Village)

The Cabriolet Gondola has always been one of the most charming lifts in Park City. Its open-air design gives riders a breezy, unobstructed view of Canyons Village while it carries guests from the lower parking area up to the heart of the base area. For years, it’s been the unofficial “welcome ride” to the mountain — a quick, scenic lift that adds a bit of character to every ski day.

Important Update: The Cabriolet Is Being Replaced

The Cabriolet lift at Canyons Village is officially being replaced with a new, state-of-the-art gondola. This upgrade is part of a broader effort to improve mountain access and enhance the overall guest experience. While the Cabriolet has been beloved for its open-air simplicity, the new gondola will bring faster loading, improved comfort, and better operational efficiency — especially on busy ski days and during peak seasons.

It’s an exciting enhancement for the village, and something to keep an eye on as Park City releases more details about construction timelines, opening dates, and what the upgraded experience will look like.

FAQ: Can you bring ski equipment?

Yes. The current Cabriolet accommodates skis and snowboards easily — riders simply stand with their gear. Until the new gondola opens, it remains a convenient lift for guests heading into the village.

Why it’s worth riding (while it’s still in operation):

  • Free to ride

  • Fresh-air, open-air views

  • Quick access to the base village

  • A nostalgic part of the Canyons experience

  • Great for fun, casual photos

WHERE: 4000 Canyons Resort Dr, Park City, UT 84098

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3. Payday Express (Park City Mountain Village)

While Payday Express is technically a chairlift, not a gondola, its views and accessibility make it a must-include. It’s a fast, high-speed lift that brings you right into classic Park City terrain with beautiful alpine scenery all around.

FAQ: Can you bring ski equipment?

Yes — in fact, it’s required. As a chairlift, you load with skis or a snowboard attached to your boots.

Why people enjoy it:

  • Stunning alpine views

  • Great access to intermediate terrain

  • Open-air ride for dramatic photos

  • Popular in both summer and winter

WHERE: Park City Mountain Resort,1345 Lowell Ave, Park City, UT 84060

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4. Town Lift (Downtown Park City)

This lift is one of the most unique experiences in Park City. Located right on Main Street, the Town Lift takes you from the heart of historic downtown into the mountains — giving you a mix of charming city views and sweeping alpine scenery.

FAQ: Can you bring ski equipment?

Yes. Like Payday, this is a chairlift, so you ride with skis or a snowboard already on your feet.

Why it’s recommended:

  • Starts right in the center of downtown

  • Perfect for grabbing coffee and hopping straight on

  • Incredible snow-covered Main Street views

  • A magical ride during the holidays

WHERE: 825 Main St, Park City, UT 84060

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5. Quicksilver Gondola (Connecting Canyons Village & Park City Mountain)

This ride connects two mountains, making it one of the most exciting and scenic rides in Park City. Gliding high above the trees, you get unobstructed views of untouched snowfields and expansive ridge lines.

FAQ: Can you bring ski equipment?

Yes — and this gondola was designed specifically for it. Quicksilver makes it possible to explore both sides of the mountain without ever removing your skis or snowboard.

Why it stands out:

  • One of the most scenic rides in the region

  • Connects two massive ski areas

  • Perfect for experienced skiers wanting to explore more terrain

  • Stunning on bluebird days

WHERE: Park City Mountain Resort,1345 Lowell Ave, Park City, UT 84060

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Best Places to Carb-Load Before Your Gondola Ride

You’re headed up the mountain — so you’ll want to fuel up right. Thankfully, Park City has some fantastic spots to stack up calories in the best way possible.

Drafts Burger Bar (Westgate Park City)

A must-try for anyone staying in Canyons Village! Drafts Burger Bar serves gourmet burgers, hearty apps, comfort sides, and one of the best beer selections on the mountain. Whether you’re looking for brunch, lunch, or après-ski bites, it hits the spot every time.

  • The Farm (Canyons Village) – Known for locally inspired dishes with generous portions — great for pre-ski energy.

  • Five5eeds – A popular breakfast and brunch spot offering bowls, pancakes, and Australian-style café dishes.

  • Vessel Kitchen – Perfect for balanced bowls filled with carbs, protein, and flavor.

  • Main Street Deli & Pizza – A classic Main Street stop for pizzas, pasta, and big shareable plates.

  • Bartolo’s - Comfort-forward Italian that warms you up and fills you up, especially on cold winter mornings.

Best Spots for Pictures

Park City is one big postcard, but these gondola-accessible spots are top tier:

Red Pine Lodge Overlook

Wide-open mountain views that are stunning in any season.

Canyons Village Base Area

The blend of village charm, fire pits, and mountain backdrops creates postcard-ready shots.

The Town Lift Over Main Street

A signature Park City viewpoint — especially magical during winter.

Mid-Ride Views on Quicksilver

Panoramic ridgeline shots perfect for wide-angle photography.

Quicksilver Mid-Ride Panorama

Absolutely stunning on bluebird days — a favorite for riders who want that “floating above the mountains” shot.

Fun Things to Do After Riding the Gondolas

Your gondola ride is just the beginning. After you reach the top (or come back down), here are more things to pack into your Park City adventure:

  • Spa Time at Westgate Park City: After a long day on the mountain, nothing beats a massage or a relaxing steam to unwind.

  • Skiing & Snowboarding: World-class powder, beginner to expert terrain.

  • Snowshoeing & Winter Hikes: Gentle scenic trails great for families

  • Mountain Biking (Summer & Fall): Lift-accessed biking makes downhill trails easy and exciting for both beginners and advanced riders.

  • Alpine Coaster: A fun, twisty ride through the mountains.

  • Shopping & Dining in Canyons Village: Great après-ski atmosphere filled with live music, fire pits, restaurants, and boutiques.

  • Main Street Exploration: Art galleries, local shops, cozy restaurants, and endless photo opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Some gondola rides in Park City are free, while others require a lift ticket or season pass. For example, the Cabriolet Gondola in Canyons Village is free to ride, making it a popular option for sightseeing and getting around. Gondolas like Red Pine and Quicksilver typically require a valid ski lift ticket or Epic Pass, especially during ski season.

Yes, the Quicksilver Gondola connects the massive ski areas of Canyons Village and Park City Mountain, making it possible for experienced riders to explore both sides of the resort without removing their equipment.

The Town Lift is located right on Main Street in historic downtown Park City. It’s ideal for grabbing coffee and then hopping straight onto the mountain.

Yes, all five lifts are designed to accommodate ski and snowboard equipment. The enclosed gondolas (Red Pine and Quicksilver) have space or racks for your gear, and the chairlifts (Payday Express and Town Lift) require you to load with your skis or snowboard attached to your boots.

Westgate Park City Resort & Spa is highlighted as being very convenient for Canyons Village, located just 0.3 miles (about a 5-minute walk) from the gondolas. They also offer guests a complimentary ski valet service.

No, the main mountain gondolas and lifts (like the Red Pine, Quicksilver, Payday, and Town Lift) are not open 365 days a year. Their operation is divided into two distinct seasons:

Winter Season: Typically runs from Mid-to-Late November through Mid-to-Late April. This is for skiing, snowboarding, and scenic rides.

Summer/Fall Season: Typically runs from Mid-June through Labor Day, with select weekends extending into early October. This is for mountain biking, hiking, and scenic viewing.

The Quicksilver Gondola is often considered the most exciting and scenic, as it is the lift that connects the vast terrain of Canyons Village to Park City Mountain. This ride glides high over untouched terrain, providing expansive views of the ridgelines and the two massive ski areas it links.

No. Pets are generally not allowed on chairlifts or in gondolas for safety reasons. An exception is made for service animals, which must be harnessed, leashed, or tethered to the handler at all times while on the lift. The resort often recommends using a gondola (rather than a chairlift) when riding with a service animal.

There is a critical difference between chairlifts and enclosed gondolas:

Chairlifts (e.g., Payday Express, Town Lift): Infants or small children in carriers (front or backpack style) are NOT permitted. This is because all riders must be able to load, ride, and unload using their own power.

Enclosed Gondolas (e.g., Red Pine, Quicksilver): You can typically carry a baby in a backpack or carrier in the enclosed cabins, as the loading and unloading process is similar to stepping onto an elevator.

Yes, you are generally allowed to bring snacks, water, and non-alcoholic beverages onto the enclosed gondolas (like the Red Pine and Quicksilver) and chairlifts.

Best Practice: The resort encourages guests to carry snacks and water, especially during peak times or during health restrictions, as it helps prevent overcrowding in on-mountain lodges. Use reusable water bottles and secure all items in a backpack.

Safety Note: For safety, hot beverages should always have a secure lid to prevent spills during loading or riding.

Gondola Rides You Can’t Miss in Park City

Gondola rides in Park City aren’t just transportation — they’re part of the magic that makes this mountain town unforgettable. Whether you’re heading up for breathtaking views, skiing down world-class slopes, or exploring the lively villages below, each gondola offers something special.

Staying with us at Westgate Park City puts you steps from the action, with the added convenience of complimentary ski valet services, on-site dining, and a location that makes both winter and summer adventures feel effortless.

For more guides to exploring Park City, visit the Westgate Resorts Travel Blog.


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* Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.

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