Shop and stroll in Utahs Kimball Junction

Sitting side by side at the northern end of Park City, Utah, is an unlikely pairing: the posh Redstone shopping plaza and the 1,200-acre Swaner Nature Preserve.

Not your typical combo of activities, but that's what makes Kimball Junction unique. The newish Redstone is now fully occupied with locally owned boutiques, so go ahead and splurge on early holiday shopping; then relax with a stroll or a snowshoe ramble through the preserve, depending on November's unpredictable weather.

GETTING THERE

Kimball Junction is 6 miles north of Park City, off I-80 at exit 145. For details, visit www.parkcityinfo.com.

HAPPENING NOW

Catch the Viessmann Luge World Cup (Nov 27-Dec 2; free with park admission) at nearby Utah Olympic Park, Park City's 2002 Winter Olympics venue for nordic jumping, bobsled, luge, and skeleton events. For a breathtaking view of Swaner Nature Preserve and beyond, take a chairlift ($3) to the top of the K120 ski jump, and then ride back down. Or bomb down the bobsled track (Tue-Sat starting Dec 26; $200). Open daily; $8, guided tours $2; 3000 Bear Hollow Dr., Park City; www.olyparks.com or 435/658-4200.

J.W. Allen & Sons Toys & Candy. Wander in a wonderland of high-quality classic toys like Legos and pinball machines. 1675 W. Redstone Center Dr.; 435/575-8697.

The Spotted Frog Bookstore-Café-Wine Bar. Feed your mind and please your palate. 1635 W. Redstone Center Dr.; 435/575-2665.

Paisley Pomegranate. Jam-packed shop with stylin' shoes. 1743 W. Redstone Center Dr.; 435/575-0300.

EAT

Red Rock Junction. Wood-fired pizzas and local brews. $$; 1640 W. Redstone Center Dr.; 435/575-0295.

Hapa Grill. Hawaiian-style ribs, plus sushi as fresh as any you'd find by the sea. $$$; 1571 W. Redstone Center Dr.; 435/575-4272.

GO

Swaner Nature Preserve. Tramp through serene meadows and rolling hills on a guided tour, or follow a loop trail on your own. Keep your eyes peeled for foxes, coyotes, and weasels. Access the Glenwild Loop Trail from Glenwild Dr., just steps from the east end of Redstone (call for directions). Guided nature walks 8:30 a.m. Wed; free, reservations required; 435/649-1767. Rent snowshoes or join a tour (from $45) at Summit Cycles and Snow; 1571 W. Redstone Center Dr.; 435/575-0355.