Lower and Upper Escalador Trail, The Chase Trail and Radke Trail

Starting your adventure near Summit County, Utah, the Lower and Upper Escalador Trail, The Chase Trail, and Radke Trail form a scenic loop of approximately 14 km (8.7 miles) with an elevation gain of around 700 meters (2,300 feet). This medium-difficulty trail offers a diverse hiking experience, blending natural beauty with historical significance.

### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transport. If driving, head towards Summit County, Utah, and look for parking near the intersection of Main Street and Park Avenue in Park City. For those using public transport, take the UTA bus service to Park City Transit Center, which is a short walk from the trailhead.

### Trail Overview The loop begins with the Lower Escalador Trail, which gently ascends through a mixed forest of aspen and pine. After approximately 2 km (1.2 miles), you will reach a small clearing with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. This section gains about 150 meters (500 feet) in elevation, making it a good warm-up for the more challenging parts ahead.

### Significant Landmarks and Nature As you continue onto the Upper Escalador Trail, the path becomes steeper, climbing another 200 meters (650 feet) over the next 3 km (1.9 miles). Here, you'll encounter a series of switchbacks that offer stunning vistas of the Wasatch Range. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as mule deer, elk, and various bird species, including the majestic golden eagle.

### Historical Significance Midway through the Upper Escalador Trail, you'll come across remnants of old mining operations from the late 19th century. These historical artifacts serve as a reminder of the region's rich mining history, which played a crucial role in the development of Summit County. Informational plaques provide context and details about the miners who once worked these hills.

### The Chase Trail Transitioning onto The Chase Trail, the terrain levels out slightly, offering a more moderate hike for the next 4 km (2.5 miles). This section meanders through lush meadows filled with wildflowers during the spring and summer months. The elevation gain here is around 100 meters (330 feet), making it a pleasant respite before the final ascent.

### Radke Trail The final leg of your journey is the Radke Trail, which loops back towards the starting point. This section is approximately 5 km (3.1 miles) long and includes a descent of about 250 meters (820 feet). The trail winds through dense forest, providing ample shade and opportunities to spot smaller wildlife like squirrels and chipmunks. The path can be narrow and rocky in places, so watch your footing.

### Navigation and Safety Given the varied terrain and historical sites, it's advisable to use a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to stay on track. The app provides detailed maps and real-time updates, ensuring you won't miss any key landmarks or trail junctions.

### Final Stretch As you near the end of the Radke Trail, you'll descend back into the valley, completing the loop at the trailhead near Park Avenue. This final stretch offers a gentle cool-down, allowing you to reflect on the diverse landscapes and rich history you've encountered along the way.