With the majestic Wasatch Mountains as its backdrop and the Great Salt Lake shimmering to the west, Utah’s capital city provides year-round opportunities for outdoor recreation that cater to every skill level and interest. Whether you’re a longtime local or just visiting, the city’s diverse landscape offers endless possibilities for outdoor adventure.
Hiking the Living Room Trail
The Living Room Trail has become one of Salt Lake City’s most beloved hiking destinations. It offers panoramic views of the entire valley and an exciting collection of rock formations arranged like furniture at the summit.
This 2.5-mile round-trip hike in the foothills above the University of Utah combines moderate difficulty with incredible rewards, making it perfect for casual hikers and photography enthusiasts.
Skiing at Brighton Resort
Brighton Resort, nestled in Big Cottonwood Canyon, offers some of the region’s most approachable yet exciting skiing and snowboarding. Known for its night skiing operations and laid-back atmosphere, Brighton has been a cornerstone of Salt Lake’s winter sports scene since 1936.
The resort’s varied terrain and exceptional snow quality make it a perfect destination for beginners and expert powder hounds looking for their next challenge.
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Mountain Biking in Corner Canyon
Corner Canyon’s extensive trail network in nearby Draper has transformed into a mountain biking paradise with over 50 miles of well-maintained trails. The area offers everything from beginner-friendly paths to technical downhill runs, making it a perfect destination for riders of all skill levels.
The canyon’s proximity to the city and its year-round accessibility have created a thriving community of local mountain biking enthusiasts.
Rock Climbing at Little Cottonwood Canyon
Little Cottonwood Canyon’s granite walls have attracted climbers worldwide, offering some of the best rock climbing opportunities in the Wasatch Range. The canyon features over 1,000 routes ranging from beginner-friendly bouldering problems to challenging multi-pitch climbs.
The area’s unique geology and variety of climbing styles have made it a crucial part of Utah’s climbing heritage.
Paddling on the Great Salt Lake
The Great Salt Lake provides a unique paddling experience unlike anywhere else in the Western United States. The lake’s high salt content makes it incredibly buoyant, creating perfect kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding conditions.
The Marina at Great Salt Lake State Park offers easy access to the water and stunning views of Antelope Island.
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Trail Running in City Creek Canyon
City Creek Canyon is Salt Lake City’s premier destination for trail running, offering a perfect escape just minutes from downtown. The canyon’s well-maintained trails and vehicle restrictions on odd-numbered days make it ideal for runners seeking solitude and natural beauty.
The varying elevation and multiple route options allow runners to customize their workouts to their desired difficulty level.
Cycling the Jordan River Parkway
The Jordan River Parkway Trail provides cyclists with over 40 miles of paved pathways connecting multiple cities throughout the Salt Lake Valley. This urban oasis offers a peaceful route for road cycling away from traffic, with numerous parks and rest areas.
The trail’s flat terrain and scenic river views make it perfect for family outings and long-distance training rides.
Snowshoeing in Millcreek Canyon
Millcreek Canyon transforms into a winter wonderland perfect for snowshoeing adventures during the snowy months. The canyon’s dog-friendly policies and well-marked trails make it an excellent choice for beginners and experienced snowshoers seeking winter solitude.
The peaceful winter atmosphere and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities create an unforgettable outdoor experience.
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Bird Watching at Farmington Bay
Farmington Bay Waterfowl Management Area offers prime bird-watching opportunities throughout the year, with peak activity during spring and fall migrations. The wetlands provide habitat for hundreds of bird species, making it a crucial stop on the Great Salt Lake Birding Trail.
The accessible boardwalks and viewing areas make it easy for birders of all experience levels to observe native and migratory species.
Paragliding at Point of the Mountain Flight Park
The Point of the Mountain Flight Park has earned international recognition as one of the most reliable and accessible paragliding locations in North America. Consistent winds and dual launch sites for north and south wind conditions make flying almost every day of the year possible.
The site’s large landing zones and professional instruction options make it an excellent location for learning and advancing your paragliding skills.
Bouldering at Ferguson Canyon
Ferguson Canyon offers an intimate bouldering experience with various problems suitable for all skill levels. The canyon’s peaceful atmosphere and shorter approach times make it perfect for after-work sessions or full-day adventures.
The area’s unique geology provides interesting problems that challenge technique and strength.
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Ice Climbing in Provo Canyon
Though slightly south of Salt Lake City, Provo Canyon’s ice-climbing opportunities make it worth the short drive during winter months. The canyon’s reliable ice formations and various routes have established it as a premier destination for winter climbing enthusiasts.
The area’s accessibility and range of difficulties suit beginning ice climbers and seasoned veterans.
Photography at Antelope Island
Antelope Island State Park offers photographers endless opportunities to capture the unique beauty of the Great Salt Lake ecosystem. The island’s free-roaming bison herds, diverse wildlife, and stunning sunsets create perfect conditions for nature photography.
The contrast between the lake’s reflective surface and the rugged island terrain provides countless compositions for landscape photographers.
Disc Golf at Creekside Park
Creekside Park’s disc golf course provides an excellent opportunity to combine hiking with friendly competition. The course’s varied terrain and well-maintained facilities make it popular among casual players and serious disc golfers.
The park’s mature trees and creek features create challenging holes that reward strategic play and accurate throwing.
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Winter Fat Biking at Round Valley
The Round Valley trail system in nearby Park City has embraced the growing sport of fat biking, grooming over 20 miles of winter trails. The area’s rolling terrain and well-maintained winter trail network make it perfect for trying this increasingly popular winter activity.
The stunning mountain views and variety of trail options create an ideal setting for winter cycling adventures.
Finding Your Adventure
Salt Lake City’s outdoor recreation opportunities represent some of the best urban-accessible adventures in the United States. The city’s unique geography and four-season climate create endless outdoor exploration and adventure possibilities throughout the year.
Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping excitement or peaceful nature encounters, Salt Lake City’s outdoor spaces offer something for everyone.
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