4 Fun Winter Activities To Enjoy in Utah

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Whether you want to spend time traveling with your kids to search for new family adventures or escape the daily grind of routine with friends, winter holidays can offer you the opportunity to explore everything this beautiful time of year has to offer. Few places in the country offer more winter activities than Utah, and no matter your age, interests, or sense of adventure, there is something for everyone to enjoy once the snow returns to the area’s majestic mountains.

1. Snow Tubing

If you fondly remember days when you went sledding with the neighborhood kids as a child, then you will thrill to a snow tubing adventure at one of Utah’s many parks, such as Wasatch Mountain State Park, which has several tubing lanes over 1,000 feet in length. If you are looking for something to get your adrenaline pumping, try night tubing, where you shoot down the snow-covered lanes in the dark.

Snow tubing is simple and safe for most healthy older kids and adults. Some parks can accommodate younger kids with tubes their size and smaller lanes that are simpler to navigate. Remember to wear waterproof clothing and ski gear to avoid getting wet and uncomfortable too early into your day. You might also want to carry a change of clothes for your kids and carry some snacks for the drive to the lanes and back.

2. Ice Skating 

Utah has a wide variety of locales that can accommodate novices and expert skaters alike. From Ogden to Provo, there are several rinks to explore. It is wise to check each rink’s public skating schedule and details about skate rentals before you venture out.

If you have never tried ice skating before, it is a good idea to go with people who are experienced and can give you some tips on how to avoid injuries that are common to beginning skaters. Consider wearing several layers of clothing to keep you warm and to cushion you if you do happen to take a spill.

3. Sleigh Rides

This is a joyful winter activity that anyone can enjoy, especially if you have a little girl or boy who loves horses. A few resorts in Utah offer sleigh rides around their grounds, giving you stunning views of the Wasatch Mountains and the area’s beautiful valleys.

You can make a day of this horse-drawn adventure by taking a ride with the family and then returning to your lodge, or if you are looking to invest in Utah real estate, your own ski property. Imagine enjoying a steaming hot cup of hot chocolate in your cozy winter home as you watch a holiday film or reminisce about fond memories of winters past.

4. Downhill and Cross-Country Skiing 

Utah boasts some of the most popular ski resorts in the country, including Deer Valley, Canyons Village, and the Park City Mountain Resort. There are numerous things to enjoy on the trails in this area, but downhill and cross-country skiing top the list for locals and visitors alike. There are a variety of trails and slopes to choose from, whether you are a beginner or looking for something a bit more challenging. If you are new to cross-country skiing, you might want to ask your local resort if they offer guided tours.

If you want to combine skiing adventures with other types of snowy fun in the Utah mountains, consider investing in one of the many gorgeous Park City ski homes available in the area. You can ski in and out from your own front door, skip parking fees and driving headaches, and invite friends and family up for adventure-filled vacations all year round. Due to the high demand in the area, if you wish to rent out your property when you aren't using it you can often turn a pretty great profit.

Winter adventures in Utah include many different activities that draw thousands of people to the area each year. From skiing to ice skating and so much more, there is much to explore in the Beehive State.

20 Things To Do at Balloon Fiesta (That Aren't Hot Air Balloons)

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, a 9-day hot air balloon festival that takes places every October in the state of New Mexico, has become our family's permanent annual vacation. After attending 7 of the past 8 years we've learned some tips and tricks and also figured out how to make the most of the multi-day event.

The obvious #1 activity at Balloon Fiesta is watching hot air balloons day and night. But there is so much more! Let's focus here on all the many other ways to keep the family entertained on and around the Balloon Fiesta Park...

Utah Summer Bucket Lists

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Temperatures are rising and the kids will soon be out of school. Summer has arrived-now what are you going to do? After recently being asked to share my favorite Utah bucketlist ideas, I've put together my best tips and created 14 lists to give you PLENTY of ways to keep busy in Salt Lake & Utah Counties.

Why Not Walk to Arizona?

There is a place called "The Wave" just over the Utah border into Arizona that I read about in Reader's Digest a long time ago. Only 20 people are admitted into the entirety of the parks listed above per day with only two options for getting permits: Gamble on a 4-month advanced purchase lottery OR drive all the way down to Kanab to camp out at the BLM office and elbow your way past two smelly hikers to get the last available day-of, walk-up slots.  The first time I went there the lottery system was just a dream.  Instead the option was to glue yourself to the park website three months in advance and not blink at midnight when the open slots were posted. After three months of lost sleep and clicking "refresh" on the millisecond, an available slot appeared and I grabbed up the five remaining permits for the far-off month of February.

100 Favorite Things To Do In Utah (Summer Edition)

I have asked several groups of people recently about their favorite things to do in Utah. The answers were beautifully varied. In my family the answers included riding bikes on the cobblestone sidewalk outside the Lehi Legacy Center, paragliding at the Point of the Mountain, and swimming at Sand Hollow State Park. Followers on the A Local Wander Facebook page were reflective in their answers, sharing how getting up into the mountains or out to wander in the desert brings peace and reminds them that they are home.

As for me, I could not possible narrow my favorite activity in Utah down to just one thing. I am a transplant here and from Day 1 have been running from one unbelievable activity to the next with wild abandon and complete awe. Those of us lucky enough to call Utah home are beyond fortunate to have hundreds of bucket list worthy adventures right outside our front door. (Indeed, the inspiration behind "A Local Wander")

To help plan your next weekend excursion, fill the summer calendar, or give you ideas for an epic western vacation, here is a beginning list of 100 favorite things to do in Utah...

Staycation in Salt Lake City

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It is that time of year when all us northern Utah types jump ship and head for the promise of warmer weather south of I-70. For anyone brave enough to stick it out here at home, I want to help you to have a blast and create memories as equally brag worthy to tell when your friends get back all sun-burned and tired.

Salt Lake City (and the surrounding area) is home to some of the best family fun venues in the western United States. Important for me, too, is how many of them have an educational element to them. The kids don't know it or care, but Mom appreciates that even on a break from books and worksheets, they're are still immersed in learning. 

Ready to start planning your Salt Lake staycation or mini-vacation? Can I recommend looking at the Visit Salt Lake Connect Pass? I recently contacted them to ask about how it works. Along with some great information, they sent me 2 passes to try out and then pass what I've learned on to you. Here are the details:

• Available in 1-, 2-, or 3-day increments, as well as a 365-day locals pass. I calculated the price for just the 5 downtown area attractions and the pass price easily beat paying full admissions individually. 
• Includes discounts on admission and other perks at 13 Salt Lake & Utah County venues.
• Must buy a pass for each person you plan to have visit the attraction with you.
• Passes can be activated up to 90-days after purchase. Using your print-out or mobile confirmation, the pass activates at the first place you use it, at which point the purchased-time frame begins.

Take a moment now to check out the Visit Salt Lake website

 and compare prices for varying available time frames.

If you're staying in town, and looking for something to do, how fun would any one of these activities be?

Discovery Gateway

Salt Lake City's Children's Museum filled with 2 levels of imagination-centered exhibits. My favorite is the mid-century house and reading area. The kids love to play in the water. It impresses me that local businesses are prominently featured with Young Living in the farming and grocery area, and Intermountain Healthcare with their medical exhibit taking kids from a 911-dispatch call all the way through X-rays and operation. Read more about our visits to Discovery Gateway. Connect Pass admission included.

Clark Planetarium

The science and space exhibits at Clark Planetarium are free and a fun way to spend an afternoon. The gift shop is worthy of a visit all its own with cool toys I've watched adults fighting over. Both times we've been to the planetarium the boys have wanted to watch the original movie, "Perfect Little Planet" about a family of vacationing space inhabitants, but there are several other options available. The Connect Pass includes one movie in the Hansen Dome AND one documentary on the IMAX screen.

The Leonardo

This is the place to take your imaginative little ones. Our only visit there was for an educator's conference, so I honestly don't know all the exhibits the kids got to go around and see, but they are still talking about it almost one year later. Admission included with Connect Pass.

Natural History Museum of Utah

If your kids are interested in Utah history, or geology, or archaeology, this is the place to take them. It is also a great activity for your outdoor lovers on those days that are too hot, too cold, too rainy, or the like. Admission included with Connect Pass.

Red Butte Garden

Next door to the Natural History Museum, Red Butte is a great outdoor facility showcasing the best in gardening design. It is beautiful to walk around and the kids can get be outside using up all their energy. Admission included with Connect Pass.

Lion House Pantry

Families on staycation still need to eat, right? Make a meal special by sitting down to eat at the Lion House Pantry. The food is home cooked and baked daily-you can get your rolls straight from the source! One entree included with Connect Pass.

This Is the Place Heritage Park

It is no secret we LOVE this place! Pioneer building to walk through, volunteers in period clothing, baby animals in the barn, a candy counter, and hot sugary donuts ready to eat. Each admission includes 3 take-home crafts or activities. Admission included with Connect Pass.

Hogle Zoo

When I'm being totally honest, I have no problem admitting that zoos really really bore me. However, I have little boys who pretty much think the zoo is akin to heaven, so I go. Visiting in spring when it's warm enough for the animals to be outside, but not too hot for the kinds to whine it absolutely perfect. Admission included with Connect Pass.

Snowbird Resort

While spring break is still prime skiing in Utah's mountains, even the less downhill-prone can find a reason to head up to the resort and have a look around. Grab a bite to eat, try some snowshoeing, or just people watch from the lodge. Connect Pass includes 1 foot passenger ride on the tram.

Tracy Aviary

Technically also a zoo, but for birds, it might surprise you to know I enjoy walking around Tracy Aviary. Maybe because it is not as big as a regular zoo, but especially because watching birds can be really peaceful. Combine a visit here with time on the playground at Liberty Park and you've made a wonderful afternoon. Admission included with Connect Pass.

 Utah Museum of Fine Arts

This would be a nice addition to your outings, adding a cultural element to the playing. Admission included with Connect Pass.

Utah Olympic Park

We visited here once during an aerial ski jumping competition and my kids were hooked, convinced they would soon be flying through the air upside down on their skis. Your Connect Pass includes (1) Adventure Course or Guided Tour

Thanksgiving Point Museum of Ancient Life & Garden

It is sad to admit we have not been to Thanksgiving Point since moving back to Utah. We literally live 5 minutes away. Visiting there could be a staycation in itself with all the different venues. Admission to the two venues titled here are included with the Connect Pass.

So what do you think? Ready to plan your spring break at home? Or plan a vacation to Utah's capital city? Take another good look at the Visit Salt Lake website for details on the Connect Pass and to compare prices for different amount of days. And, please, let me know where you decide to go!

Want to save even more money on the Salt Lake Connect Pass?

Purchase this deal on Groupon while supplies last!

Want to make it real getaway?

Click here for rates on Salt Lake area hotels.

What Kids Learn From a Mom Who Camps

Four years ago my husband found himself in a changing job and needing to spend 4 months in Alaska. Faced with the pressures of daily family life alone, I could have felt overwhelmed. Instead, without hesitation, I determined that I and my 4 boys were going to make the most of it. I packed them all (B was 5, P was 3, and the babies were 9-months) into our van and struck out on a spontaneous 4-month cross-country camping adventure. In that 4 months we stayed in a few hotels, we crashed on some family couches, and we spent 56 days camping. It was the best decision I’ve ever made!