Swaner Preserve & EcoCenter

There's so much to see and do in winter, summer, fall, or spring at the Swaner Preserve & EcoCenter.

This 1,200-acre protected wetland and nature area offers an immersive experience of Utah's wildlife and ecosystems. Equally impressive is the 10,000-square-foot EcoCenter, which is LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Platinum Certified.

But before we explore all the amazing things to see and do at this facility, let's learn the backstory.

In 1957, Leland S. Swaner purchased Spring Creek Ranch and worked the land until his passing in 1992. In his honor, his wife and children set aside a few acres as a memorial. Over time, this grew to the 1,200-acre Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter. In 2010, the family gave the Preserve to the Utah State University. It would be the largest gift in the school's history.

The EcoCenter is a hub for learning, with immersive in-house and traveling exhibits. The Preserve is near regional landmarks like the Utah Olympic Park and McPolin Barn. Such convenience makes combining any of these in a day doable. 

Visitors can take guided tours and sign up for workshops. These are designed for all ages to educate on environmental preservation and the area's flora and fauna. 

Swaner Preserve & EcoCenter makes learning about nature fun, making it an attraction the entire family will enjoy.

Swaner Preserve & EcoCenter: Fun Facts & Cool Features

One outstanding feature is the Preserve's acknowledgment of Utah's eight tribes who called the area "Hole in the Sky." Such recognition connects the lands with the stories of these Nations' struggles for survival and identity. 

Guests will discover hands-on exhibits explaining the importance of wetlands, environmental conservation, and the area's wildlife. The four-story observation tower is another plus, with a bird's-eye view of the Preserve. You may spot elk, waterfowl, and other animals that make the wetlands home.

Another favorite is the 400' boardwalk that juts into the Preserve. Perfect for any age and ability, the pier offers easy access to the wetlands.

Hikers and nature lovers visiting Park City will appreciate the trails. The Northern Section has 380 acres of sagebrush shrubland hills with 10 miles of trails overlooking East Canyon Creek.  The Southern Section showcases 850 acres of protected wetlands and requires guides. These include the Saturday Morning Nature Walks and Private Tours led by naturalists. And in winter, you can rent snowshoes to explore the Preserve!

The Climbing Wall is an indoor activity suitable for all ages. The price is reasonable and covers your harness. Remember to wear closed-toe shoes.

After exploring the Preserve, celebrate with a meal at nearby Hearth and Hill. It's the perfect ending to a fun-filled day.

And those are just a sample of what you can discover and do at the Swaner Preserve & EcoCenter. Adding it to your itinerary will give you unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

Getting There

Here are step-by-step driving directions from Park City to Swaner Preserve & EcoCenter:

• Start on Park Ave and head north.
• Turn right onto Kearns Blvd (SR-248) and continue for 4 miles.
• Merge onto US-40 E/US-189 N towards Heber/Vernal.
• Take exit 2 toward Silver Summit and keep left at the fork to continue toward Silver Summit Parkway.
• Turn left onto Silver Creek Drive.
• Turn right onto Gilmour Way and then a left onto Highland Drive.
• Swaner Preserve & EcoCenter will be on your right; enter the parking lot.
• Address: 1258 Center Drive, Park City, UT 84098

Cost

Here are the costs to visit Swaner Preserve & EcoCenter:

• EcoCenter Admission: suggested $5 per person
• Saturday Nature Hikes: $10 per person
• Private Nature Hikes (11+): $30 per person (non-member)
• Snowshoe rental: $5
• Climbing wall: $5 for five climbs

Prices are subject to change; check their website for updates.