My wife and I have wanted to move out of the city and into the mountains for a long time, which we discussed over many dinners. We made a plan, and then we made it happen: After years of subtle suggestions and outright machinations, we moved from Long Beach, California, to Park City, Utah.

Of course, moving your family to the mountains and uprooting them from their urban center is not an easy decision. But if you value the mountain lifestyle, exploring this idea is well worth the effort.

Here are some ideas to get you started on making a move:

Buy a vacation home

Vacation properties are a great way to get a taste of a new place without fully committing to moving. When you spend several weeks or months at a vacation home each year, you eventually spend enough time there to make it your permanent residence. In our case, we stayed in the house we bought in Old Town before fully settling down. 

These three communities are worth considering if you're also into skiing and want easy access to Deer Valley resort. Deer Crest offers a mix of ultra-luxurious single-family homes, condominiums, and homesites overlooking the Jordanelle Reservoir. Most properties provide ski access via private or public ski trails, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. 

Many magnificent luxury condominiums and single-family homes are clustered in Empire Pass with superb ski access and are considered the most prestigious in Deer Valley. Residents in Empire Pass can opt to become a member of the famed Talisker Club, which features unparalleled amenities at the Tower Club and golf at the Mark O'Meara-designed Tuhaye Golf Course & Club.

Currently under construction, the Mayflower Mountain Resort is Park City's newest resort development. It will feature a luxury village and numerous ski lifts providing winter and summer access to extensive terrain.

Plan a vacation

If you're planning to move to Park City, make sure you spend some time there before settling down. Plan a couple of vacations first, and go during the winter and summer seasons. See if you like it. My approach included both winter and summer trips. 

You can try your hand at fly-fishing, soar above the mountains in a hot air balloon, explore the mountain on foot, a bike, or horseback, test your balance with stand-up paddle board yoga, or tackle one of our golf courses. No matter which activity you choose, it's an unforgettable summer experience.

During winter, whatever activity your heart desires, you can find it in Park City. Its reputation for the best skiing in the United States couldn't be more true. When not skiing, go après-ski with a glass of champagne or dine at an Umbrella Bar for dinner.

Live in Park City for a year 

SKI SEASON rentals typically run Nov. - April, etc. Regular year-round rentals can begin in almost any month.  Renting a place is a great option to see what the area offers. Leases typically run from June through September and again from November until April.

After several years of going back and forth, my wife and I were sold. We eventually bought a house in Park Meadows and can't imagine living full-time elsewhere. Park City, Utah, is home.

If you have any questions, please contact me at 435 640-0217 or start your property search here. I would be glad to provide you with more information about your areas of interest. Or better yet, let's set up a time to meet and take a neighborhood tour with me, your local expert!