The Peak Sports and Entertainment Complex is more than an equestrian venue—it is one of Tooele County’s most adaptable indoor spaces. While the indoor arena is primarily designed to support equestrian events, its strength lies in its ability to transform. Over the years, the indoor arena has hosted a wide range of events, including BMX races, archery competitions, livestock shows, Christmas festivals, concerts, and community gatherings.
Behind every successful event lies a carefully coordinated transition process that strikes a balance between safety, functionality, and efficiency.
A Space Designed to Adapt
Each event held at The Peak’s indoor arena comes with its own set of requirements. While all transitions begin with the basics—cleaning restrooms, seating areas, and surfaces—preparation quickly becomes more specialized depending on how the arena will be used.
Equestrian events, which make up a significant portion of arena use, typically require one to two days of preparation. Staff focus on arena footing, equipment layout, warm-up areas, holding pens, and even surrounding parking areas to ensure a smooth and safe experience for both participants and spectators.
The Science Behind the Footing
One of the most critical elements of the arena’s versatility is its engineered footing material. Specifically designed for equestrian use, the footing is a carefully balanced mixture of clay, sandy loam, and sand that allows it to absorb and retain moisture.
Moisture management is essential. Too much water can cause slippery or clumped conditions, while too little creates dust and unsafe footing. Staff spend significant time watering the arena using a water truck and carefully monitoring moisture levels to achieve the right balance. Each equestrian discipline also prefers a different footing depth, adding another layer of precision to the process.
To ensure best practices, many Parks and Recreation staff members have received specialized training in equestrian footing management through the League of Agricultural and Equestrian Facilities, a nationally recognized organization whose standards are used by top equestrian facilities across the country.
From Dirt to Decking—and Everything in Between
What makes the arena multi-purpose is the way the footing can be transformed. The engineered material allows staff to compact the dirt to create a stable, level surface. This compaction process makes it possible to install a plastic floor over the arena for shows, concerts, and other non-equestrian events—a transition that can take one to two weeks or more to complete.
That same compaction capability also allows staff to build BMX tracks and archery courses, providing indoor winter opportunities for sports that are typically limited to outdoor venues. Once an event concludes, the footing can be decompressed and reworked, returning the arena to a safe and functional equestrian surface.
A Team Effort Year-Round
Successfully transitioning the arena from horses to handlebars—and everything in between—requires skilled staff, thoughtful scheduling, and strong collaboration with community partners. Each setup is planned with safety, efficiency, and the needs of users in mind.
Through this careful planning and adaptability, The Peak Sports and Entertainment Complex continues to maximize the value of its facilities while serving a wide range of recreational, agricultural, and entertainment needs throughout the year.
From equestrian riders to BMX enthusiasts, The Peak remains a dynamic indoor space that reflects Tooele County’s commitment to flexible, well-managed, and community-focused recreation.