When you're vacationing in Deer Valley there are plenty of things to do, but visiting Utah Olympic Park is a must. It's located just 5 miles from the Deer Valley ski area; this massive complex was home to the 2002 Winter Olympic bobsled, luge, skeleton, and some ski jumping events. Even though the Olympics are finished, this park still offers great fun and entertainment for the entire family both winter and summer. Be sure to make this a stop on your Deer Valley vacation itinerary.
The park is set in a beautiful spot only a couple minutes from Deer Valley and includes something for all kinds of people. During the winter months, those ready to pay the fee can take �The Comet� down the bobsled track that Olympic athletes used. This intense ride goes up to 80 mph and exerts 5G�s on the athletes. You travel down the track with 2 friends and a driver, complete the 3 mile track in under a minute. This isn't for the faint of heart, but it is an exhilarating experience for the daring soul. During the summer months, �The Comet� is outfitted with wheels which gives it the ability to travel down a concrete track. The ride isn't as extreme but it's fun and less expensive. A few other rides that are available for the adventurous summer visitor include 2 zip lines that allow you to �zip� above the scenery at speeds up to fifty mph and the Quicksilver alpine slide. The alpine slide is pretty new to the park and offers fun for children as young as three accompanied by an adult.
For those that feel no need for speed, there are plenty of activities that do not require a seat belt or a harness. Just a few steps from the parking lot is the Joe Quinney Winter Sports Center which houses two museums. One gives visitors a nostalgic look at ski history and the 2002 Olympic Museum showcases pictures and other memories from the olympic games.
Visitors can also take a guided or self-guided tour of the park to see its facilities. In addition to the bobsled track, there are 6 awesome Nordic ski jumps and jumps for freestyle aerials. In the summer months you can watch freestyle aerialists practicing their tricks and flips as they fly off a ski jump and plunge into a 750,000-gallon-pool. The practice pool is open in the summer to allow freestyle jumpers to improve their tricks.
Whether you are interested in experiencing a part of Olympic history, careening down the bobsled track at incredible speeds, or merely enjoying the beautiful scenery; this park has something to offer everyone. Package deals can be purchased for those who desire to participate in a mixture of activities.
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Blake Provo writes for Blooming Resort Rentals which offers
Deer Valley vacation rental options for vacationers and business travelers. See also the
Park City Ski Lounge website they sponsor.
