AAOA in Park City: A Perfect Blend of Education and Experience

By Kevin Wilson, MD, FAAOA

The AAOA is always seeking innovative ways to learn and network and provide more value to our members. Whether through walking tours of the host city or sampling the local cuisine, AAOA meetings offer more than just an educational experience. They provide opportunities to explore the region and learn and network with other attendees and faculty. 

When the recent Basic Course was being planned to be held in beautiful Park City, Utah, we wanted to take advantage of summer in the mountains and create an experience to remember. Most people equate Park City with wintertime skiing, but summer in the mountains can be beautiful and adventurous in its own way. We decided to organize a hike after the meetings one evening. We met in the hotel lobby, walked a short distance out the front door, and immediately started climbing a mountain. The trail spiraled up the slope, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and lakes. We networked and socialized on the trail as we passed wildflowers and wound through forests. We ended at the 9400-foot Bald Mountain summit to panoramic views of the Wasatch Mountains. Even those who came from sea level were able to work through the thin oxygen to enjoy the breeze and fresh mountain air.

Similar opportunities are being planned for future meetings around the country, so we hope you’ll consider joining us there!