If you love hiking, skiing, and sightseeing, Utah is an amazing place to book your next adventure. Along with its ski resorts, mountain trails, and lakes, the state offers many indoor and outdoor experiences that all can enjoy.
So, after you’re finished playing at the online casino, pack your bags and enjoy winter in the Beehive state enjoying different experiences that will take you out of screens.
Hiking
With Moab, Bryce Canyon, and the Arches National Park, Southern Utah is where many nature lovers head for hiking. Often overlooked, Northern Utah also has some beautiful hiking spots. Contrasting from the bright oranges of Zion National Park, Northern Utah is full of greenery year-round.
Bald Mountain is a favorite hike of many. The trail is a 5-mile loop and takes you to the peak of the mountain, where you can see four large bodies of water and a wide variety of foliage.
If you’re looking for something a bit shorter, check out Big Elk Lake. This trail is only 2.2 miles long and takes you to the lakeshore, where you can swim, float, or just overlook the beautiful waters.
For those that want their hike to be an all-day adventure, head over to Shingle Creek Lake. This trail is around 5.5 miles one way and takes around a half-day of hiking for most who take on the challenge. While hiking in this area of the High Uintas, you’ll encounter long stretches of peaceful mountain forest that are perfect for rebalancing your body and mind.
Skiing
Whether you’re an expert skier or just starting out, the slopes of Northern Utah are perfect for snow lovers. Northern Utah offers a number of amazing ski resorts. In fact, it may be difficult to pick one, so here are the favorites of both locals and visitors.
The 2,500 acres of Snowbird Ski Resort are loved by all who ski in Utah. Snowbird often hosts professional skiers but also offers ski lessons for newbies. It boasts both light and steep trails, tram rides, and a beautiful inn to hang out at between trips down the slope.
There are multiple ski resorts within the beloved Park City, but Park City Mountain Resort is by far its most popular. It offers 341 different runs, 7,300 acres just for skiing, and is located only 45 minutes from the beautiful Salt Lake City. The resort has many different passes for all types of trips, including its Epic Pass, which allows access to the Park City Mountain Resort as well as seven other resorts.
Sundance Resort is probably Utah’s most unique spot to ski. It was established by actor and director Robert Redford in 1969 and offers much more than skiing. It only has 50 ski runs, but don’t count it out, as visitors can spend the rest of their time dining at a few amazing restaurants, taking jewelry-making classes, and viewing the Sundance Film Festival and Bluebird Cafe Series.
Other Outdoor Experiences
If hiking and skiing aren’t enough outdoor activities to satisfy your need for nature, Northern Utah offers many more great experiences. From stargazing to snowshoeing, you won’t be disappointed.
Northern Utah has many International Dark Sky Parks, which are protected from the bright lights of Salt Lake City in order to ensure that star lovers can easily see stretches of the night sky. Antelope Island Park is a favorite of many and is home to bison, sheep, antelope, and other beautiful animals who might accompany you while stargazing.
Snowmobiling is also available for those who want a bit of fast-paced adventure. Wasatch Mountain State Park offers snowmobile rentals and almost 60 miles of space to use them. You can go on a guided tour if you’re hesitant about the terrain, or feel free to go off on your own and explore the mountains of Utah.
For those that want to attempt snowshoeing, Round Valley in Park City is a great place to start. Snowshoers may be accompanied by many types of wildlife, such as beavers, owls, and hares. This trail is accessible for moderate and beginner snowshoers, so all visitors are able to try it out.
