Reginald Holmes, an American professional basketball player once said, “The earth has its music for those who will listen.” Sometimes all we need to do is stop for a moment, take a deep breath and appreciate the beauty around us.
Northern Utah offers a lot of ways of enjoying the breathtaking outdoors without breaking the bank. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just looking for some new adventure, here are some ideas on how to make the most of your time in this beautiful region.
Hiking is a versatile activity for all skill levels. Not only does it encourage physical activity but it also helps achieve that special kind of mental relief that comes with being out in the mountains. The best part is that it is extremely flexible as you can choose what hike you are ready for and you do not need expensive gear, just good and comfortable shoes.
Halle Packer, Weber State University outdoor program marketing specialist and communications student, said “Adam’s Canyon in Layton is one of my favorite trails. The views are spectacularly pretty and the water is cold which helps you feel nice and refreshed with the hot temperatures.”
Other popular hiking spots in the area include Bonneville Shoreline Trail, which stretches along the eastern edge of the Salt Lake Valley, and Ogden Canyon Waterfall which is around the corner from campus. Paddle-boarding and kayaking are also an accessible option if you want to find new ways to connect with nature this summer.
“Paddle-boarding is a fun and inexpensive way to have fun outdoors. It is also relaxing as you can admire the spectacular views and enjoy the calming properties of water,” Packer said.
The standout feature of those two activities is that they require minimal investment in gear, offer low-cost access to natural waterways, are easy to learn and can be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels. Some great places to paddleboard in northern Utah include Causey Reservoir and Willard Bay State Park.
Take advantage of on-campus resources with the WSU Outdoor Program. Sometimes not knowing where to find appropriate gear or not having a good company of friends to go on a trip with can be discouraging.
“You don’t need to invest in your own equipment to get started with your outdoor adventures. You can easily rent gear from the Outdoor Program’s Rental Center at affordable rates which makes it accessible for everyone to experience fantastic Utah outdoor activities,” Packer said.
The Outdoor Program has a lot of organized trips and small free events planned for the summer. These include waterfall hiking trips, mountain bike rides and introductory sessions, such as stand-up paddle board experience and even a Moab whitewater rafting trip. This is a valuable resource for students and individuals taking their first steps toward exploring the majestic outdoors.
Adventure awaits. Let’s take a moment to cherish beauty and explore something different before summer ends.
