15 Epic Outdoorsy Things Anyone In Utah Can Do

Utah is a pretty outdoorsy state; we have so many beautiful spots for recreation here. Some of our popular things to do outside in Utah are pretty hardcore, though. Who are these people who dangle from cliffs 1,000 from the ground? Who gets out there every weekend to heli-ski and mountain bike down steep trails and navigate insane whitewater rapids? While we can marvel and admire those hardcore folks, many of us aren't those people. Every Utahn can be outdoorsy — you don’t have to be into extreme sports to enjoy all that Utah has to offer. Here are 15 epic things to do outdoors in Utah that almost Utahn can do:

1. Explore the Riverside Walk at Zion National Park.

This paved walkway in Zion National Park is a two-mile round trip. You’ll see those incredible towering cliffs that Zion’s famous for, and end up at the Virgin River. You can continue on to the Narrows hike if you want to walk through the river to cool off.

2. Try paddleboarding at Utah Lake.

Anyone can paddleboard (or so I’m told). You can even bring your dog. And if you don't want to try paddleboarding, just spend some time admiring the views and basking in the sunshine at Utah Lake.

3. Go for a bike ride on the Legacy Parkway.

It’s paved, it’s flat, it’s a safe place to ride ... and it’s a beautiful trail. Keep your eyes out for birds and other wildlife!

4. Ride the tram at Snowbird this summer.

Take the tram at Snowbird Resort and witness the incredible views at the summit. You can either hike back down or ride the tram back.

5. Explore the Silver Lake Loop Trail.

This easy hike in Utah is perfect for just about everyone. It loops around the lake for about 1 mile, and most of it is wheelchair accessible. You’ll find the trail at the top of Big Cottonwood Canyon.

6. Photograph wildlife at Antelope Island.

Antelope Island is one of the best spots in Utah for wildlife photography. In addition to the bison, you’ll find pronghorn, mule deer, rabbits, lizards, and tons of birds.

7. Camp in the high Uintas.

Visit Mirror Lake or any of the other little lakes along the Mirror Lake Highway. This is tent camping at its best — or bring your RV for all the comforts of home.

8. Birdwatch at the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge.

The Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge is home to millions of birds throughout the year. Depending on the season, you might see pelicans, swans, ducks, hawks, and more.

9. Jump off a cliff at Lake Powell.

Jumping off a cliff at Lake Powell doesn’t require any skill or muscle. You can do it ... if you’re brave enough that is. Of course, some cliffs aren’t as high as others.

10. Canoe on Bear Lake.

The water at Bear Lake is an amazing blue and just about anyone can paddle a canoe. Just make sure you keep an eye out for the Bear Lake Monster!

11. Float the Provo River.

It’s a lazy day, floating down the Provo River.

12. Picnic at Bryce Canyon National Park.

With a view like that, lunch tastes a LOT better! You can even make an entire weekend (or week-long trip) at Bryce Canyon National Park — it's a trip you won't forget!

13. Take a Wildflower Hike.

See the gorgeous wildflowers on this fairly easy hike.

14. Go fishing at Fairview Lake.

Even the littlest outdoorsy Utahn can fish! Don't forget to check out some of our other beautiful lakes in Utah for more adventure!

15. Relax in a hammock.

Because sometimes being outdoors isn’t all about expending energy.

What are your favorite things to do outside in Utah? Do you enjoy camping? Hiking? Exploring? Let us and your fellow travelers know in the comments. And, if you have a favorite outdoor activity in Utah, we'd love to check it out. Fill out this form and share it with us.