7 Utah Day Trips That Are Even Cooler During The Winter
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Courtnie Erickson
Author
Winter in Utah can seem like it lasts forever. The cold, snow, ice, slush — sometimes it just becomes too much. However, if you stay cooped up all winter long, you are missing some of the best attractions and destinations that the Beehive State has to offer. In fact, there are a handful of Utah day trips that are so much cooler during the chilly months of the year. Take a look at seven of our favorites, then pack up your warmest winter travel essentials and hit the road!
Antelope Island State Park, Utah, USA
Antelope Island State Park is one of the largest state parks in Utah and a delightful place to visit during the summer. But in the winter, it is magical. Not only is Antelope Island beautiful during the colder months of the year, but it is less crowded and buggy. You also have a greater chance to spot incredible wildlife and there are some pretty extraordinary winter hikes in this state park.
Silver Lake, Utah 84121, USA
A visit to Silver Lake in Big Cottonwood Canyon each winter should be on every Utahn’s bucket list. The trail to the lake is less than one mile and it is fairly easy. Early in the winter, you can typically just wear hiking boots but after a heavy snowfall, this is a delightful trail for a day of snowshoeing or Nordic skiing.
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Farmington Bay, Farmington, UT 84025, USA
From November through March each year, hundreds of Bald Eagles migrate to Utah. While there are several areas around the state where you can view these iconic birds, Farmington Bay is one of the best. Here, the birds can rest and easily find food and it isn’t uncommon to see dozens of eagles at once. You can also stop into the George S. and Dolores Dore Eccles Wildlife Education Center to learn more that the Bald Eagles and other birds you may see during your day trip.
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Midway, UT 84049, USA
Midway is one of the best small towns in Utah to visit during the winter and it’s perfect for a day trip or an entire weekend getaway. Here, you can explore the Midway Ice Castles or even soak in the Homestead Crater. Midway is also near Wasatch Mountain State Park, the perfect destination for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Fifth Water Hot Springs Trail Start, Diamond Fork Rd, Springville, UT 84663, USA
Fifth Water Hot Springs, also known as Diamond Fork Hot Springs, is a relaxing place to spend a winter day. To reach the hot springs, you will have to conquer a two-mile one-way trail but you’ll feel like you are walking through a winter wonderland — particularly after a fresh snowfall. Once you reach the hot springs, you’ll find multiple pools of varying temperatures and a beautiful waterfall. Be aware that the road to reach the trailhead may be closed due to snow. You can still hike the road, you may just add a few additional miles to your journey.
Zion National Park, UT, Springdale, UT 84737, USA
Zion National Park is a must-visit destination during the winter. You likely will not have the large crowds, will not have to ride the shuttle, and often, you will only need a light jacket. Plus, there is something absolutely magical about viewing the red rocks under a blanket of freshly fallen snow.
Wildlife Education Center at Hardware Wildlife Management Area, Blacksmith Fork Canyon Road, Hyrum, UT 84319, USA
Hardware Ranch is located approximately 15 miles east of Hyrum in Blacksmith Fork Canyon. This wildlife management area features an elk feeding program and during the winter months, you can view the elk up close on a horse-drawn sleigh ride. It’s not only a unique day trip in Utah, but it is also educational as well.
What are some of your favorite winter day trips in Utah? Did it make our list? If not, let us and your fellow Utahns know about it in the comments below!
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