Cool Fun in the Summertime: Bonding at The Bird with Family and Friends

"Come on Mom, don’t be scared. You can do it!" said the confident 6-year-old daughter of my friend as she precariously navigated the Ropes Course. Her mother hesitated for a moment, but the cajoling of the brave youngster provided the right amount of encouragement. "Wow, I can’t believe I’m doing this!" exclaimed her mother as she worked her way across the circus-like highwire. As the twosome were lowered and regained footing on terra firma, their mutual excitement was palpable.

Snowbird, primarily known as a winter haven for skiers and snowboarders, transforms into a vibrant playground in the summer. The resort offers a myriad of activities designed to thrill and delight visitors of all ages, making it an ideal destination for families and friends looking to create lasting memories. The Ropes Course, which brought fun and a sense of achievement to my friend and her daughter, was just the beginning of an adventurous afternoon for our 2 young families.

With All-Day Activity Passes (a nice perk of being a Snowbird Season Passholder with Early Bird Benefits), we were granted access to a variety of activities, including the Kids' Inflatable and Mini Ropes Course, which proved to be a big hit for my 2-year-old daughter. Watching her happily jump about, then barrel down the slide with a huge grin on her face, caused my wife and I to burst into laughter as the employee attendant cracked a smile along with us.

As our wives and kids stayed occupied, my buddy and I headed to the Mountain Coaster for an unexpected thrill. Zooming down the forested twists and turns of the mountain track, with the wind whipping through our hair, we felt a rush of exhilaration that rivals Snowbird’s famous wintertime ski terrain. It was a good reminder that adventure knows no limits, regardless of our age.

Another highlight of our day trip was the Tram rooftop balcony ride. With the Salt Lake Valley’s heat pushing the 100-degree mark, we were more than ready to escape to the cool temps and light breezes of Hidden Peak. As we ascended to the 11,000-foot summit, the temperature dropped to a refreshing 70 degrees, and panoramic views of Little Cottonwood Canyon sprawled out around us. The patches of snow clinging to the surrounding peaks provided a stunning contrast to the summer greenery below—it was then I realized that I was sharing a completely unique experience with my friends and family, as the Tram rooftop balconies are one-of-a-kind in the US.

We enjoyed a leisurely snack at The Summit, soaking in the spectacular scenery from the outdoor deck. The serene environment allowed us to unwind and connect, away from the distractions of daily life, while we watched a chipmunk play hide and seek with our kids.

Back at the base, my toddler couldn't resist another round of fun in the Kids’ Inflatable, while my wife declared she was ready to ride the Mountain Coaster. With both of them running off in opposite directions, and my friend chasing his 9-year-old son towards the ZipWhipper®, I was left to enjoy the natural sights and sounds of the Little Cottonwood Creek rushing down to the Salt Lake Valley. I took a moment to reflect on the simple pleasures in life, and the importance of taking time to enjoy them with family and friends.

As our group reconvened, filled with adrenaline after their various thrill-seeking missions, we headed to The Birdfeeder for a quick snack. Sharing pictures and reliving the group’s experiences provided us an opportunity to bond over our shared memories. As our time at Snowbird came to a close, we were reluctant to leave the mountain oasis—and the teamwork and camaraderie we experienced while tackling the afternoon’s challenges.

Snowbird gave us more than just a fun day out—from the Ropes Course to the Mountain Coaster, and the serene beauty of Hidden Peak to Little Cottonwood Creek, every moment was a chance to connect with each other and the environment around us. Whether you're seeking thrills or simply looking to escape the heat and enjoy the cool mountain air, summertime at Snowbird offers something for everyone. And throughout the process, it provides the perfect setting for families and friends to strengthen their bonds and create unforgettable memories.

About the Author

Originally from Colorado, Alex has been a skier as long as he can remember. Throughout his 20s and early 30s he avoided summer—spending his winters in Silverton, Colorado as a ski guide and patroller, then chasing the snow south to Argentina. Professional journeys led him to Alaska where he dodged rotor blades and wrangled clients as a heli-ski guide. Eventually he hung up his guide pack and transitioned to office life, working in the outdoor and ski industry. Now he spends his days in Utah, perfecting the BLT sandwich, skiing for fun and looking after his two young daughters.

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