Park City is bringing back its popular Bonanza Flat transit service for winter, expanding access to backcountry recreation after a successful summer and fall launch. City officials say the seasonal pilot proved effective in improving trail access while protecting sensitive open space.
Bonanza Winter Shuttle Launches December 19
Park City Transit confirmed that the Bonanza Winter Shuttle will begin operating on Friday, December 19. The service will run every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through April 19, 2026, providing reliable winter access to Bonanza Flat during peak recreation months.
Buses will operate every 30 minutes between 8:45 a.m. and 4:45 p.m., offering a consistent schedule for skiers, snowshoers, and winter hikers planning weekend trips.
Winter Route Adjusted for Seasonal Road Closures
Unlike the summer and fall route, the winter shuttle will not travel to Bloods Lake. Guardsman Pass, which connects that area, is closed during winter months.
Instead, the winter route will run between the Montage Deer Valley stop on the 9-Purple route and Bonanza Flat. Riders are encouraged to reach the Montage stop by boarding the 9-Purple bus from Old Town Transit Center at 445 Marsac Avenue.
This adjustment allows continued access to Bonanza Flat while accounting for winter road conditions.
Free Service With Space for Winter Gear
The shuttle remains part of Park City Transit’s zero-fare system, meaning riders can use the service at no cost.
Each shuttle can carry up to 11 passengers and is equipped to handle winter recreation equipment. Space is available for cross-country skis, snowshoes, and up to four fat-tire bikes. Dogs are also permitted on board as long as they are properly muzzled.
City officials say the goal is to remove transportation barriers while encouraging responsible use of public lands.
Expanding Access to Bonanza Flat
Bonanza Flat is a protected conservation area that attracts visitors year-round. By extending transit service into winter, Park City hopes to make backcountry access more equitable and reduce parking pressure near trailheads.
According to the city, the winter service offers three times as many operating days and double the daily service hours compared to earlier seasonal efforts.
Officials emphasized that while transit access is improved, visitors should still prepare carefully for mountain conditions and understand that winter backcountry travel comes with risks.
Trail Maintenance and Safety Guidance
Trails accessible from the shuttle route are groomed by the Mountain Trails Foundation, helping maintain safer and more enjoyable conditions throughout the season.
Riders are reminded that weather in the Wasatch Mountains can change quickly. Park City advises all visitors to check forecasts, dress appropriately, and assess conditions before entering backcountry terrain.
Funded by Summer Parking Revenue
The Bonanza Winter Shuttle is funded primarily through paid parking revenue collected during the summer season, the same funding source that supported the summer and fall service.
Additional support comes from community partners, including Deer Valley Resort, Utah Open Lands, the Talisker Club, and the Mountain Trails Foundation.
Details about routes and schedules are available through Park City Transit on the official Park City website.
Strong First-Year Results
The decision to bring the service back follows impressive early results. During its first summer and fall season, the Bonanza Flat shuttle averaged 770 riders per weekend, according to city officials.
Park City Council members noted that the service helped manage visitor demand while protecting the landscape from overuse.
City leaders see the winter expansion as a continuation of that strategy, balancing recreation access with conservation.
