Snowy Adventures: Utah's Top Winter Activities
It's no secret that Utah's a top winter destination, but is the Beehive State still relevant when you don't want to ski? Even if you love skiing, it's important to recognize how much Utah offers apart from the slippery slopes. If you're in Utah and looking for something to do come winter, try a few of these best winter activities in Utah.
Soldier Hollow Nordic Center, Midway, UT
Simply put, Soldier Hollow in Midway is a Utah winter staple. Offering a variety of winter activities, it's lodge-like atmosphere and ample supply of the white stuff keep both Utahans and non-Utahans coming back for more. Tubing is an especially popular activity at Soldier Hollow, not only because it's accessible for all ages but also because it's a complete and utter blast.
Utah's Olympic Oval, Kearns, UT
The main facility for ice-related activities during the 2002 Winter Olympics, Utah's Olympic Oval has since been open to the public and offers world-class facilities for a variety of icy activities. Embrace the winter chill and take a skate with a warming hot chocolate to follow.
Park City Gallery, Park City, UT
Looking for something a little more artsy? Look no further than Park City's downtown, which offers an impressive selection of art galleries as well as plenty of lively restaurants to both warm and inspire the mid-winter heart.
Zoolights at the Hogle Zoo, Salt Lake City, UT
Open for the month of December, Zoolights at Utah's Hogle Zoo are a great way to spend the evening with younger children. With over 200 lighted animal and holiday-themed displays, the zoo comes to life in winter and cannot be missed.
Mulligans Golf & Games, South Jordan, UT
Ever thought to golf in the snow? While it may not appeal to some, avid golfers would be hard-pressed to find a similar experience than the winter golfing options at Mulligan's in South Jordan.
Sundance Resort, Provo, UT
If you're looking for a more intimate skiing experience, Sundance Resort is perfect for you. Founded by Robert Redford in the 1970s, this ski resort up Provo Canyon has managed to maintain its small-town vibes while also earning a world-class reputation for its skiing and cozy ambience.
Mountain Dell, Salt Lake City, UT
Looking for a cardiovascular workout on skis? The Mountain Dell ski track located in Parley's Canyon is a premier destination for cross country skiing. The ski track is religiously maintained (a fresh track is created every 24 hours) to ensure the best of cross-country skiing experiences.
Sugar House Park, Salt Lake City, UT
Sugar House Park in Salt Lake City is home to some of Utah's most exciting sledding inclines. The good news? Accessing this park mid-winter doesn't require four-wheel drive and your kids will be entertained for hours.
Temple Square, Salt Lake City, UT
If you're a Utahan and have not visited Salt Lake City's Temple Square at Christmas time, you've probably been living under a rock for at least 50 years. Yes, this activity isn't so much an option as much as a rite of passage! Completely free and lovely whether you're overtly religious or not, the lights at Temple Square are an invigorating way to embrace the holiday spirit.
Ice Castles, Midway, UT
Gaining traction in recent years, the Midway Ice Castles bring Disney's "Frozen" to life. Great for date night or simply to enliven the imagination of your children, these icy contraptions are a worth-while winter experience.
Heber Valley Railroad Polar Express, Heber, UT
If you read the famed picture book “The Polar Express” as a child, this attraction will appeal just as much to you as it will to your children. The Heber Valley Railroad is open all year, but around Christmas time, it becomes the Polar Express. Wear your pajamas and sip on hot cocoa as the train takes you and your loved ones through a winter wonderland.
Snowbird's Cliff Spa, Snowbird Resort, UT
While your friends and family hit the slopes, try Snowbird Resort's Cliff Spa instead. You'll have access to some seriously scenic winter TLC.
Ruby's Inn, Bryce Canyon, UT
Although Bryce Canyon certainly receives most of its tourists in the summer, it’s not void of attraction during the winter months. The intense, orange rock of the canyon takes on a whole new beauty when its capped with snow, and the nearby Ruby's Inn puts on its "Winter Festival," over President's Day weekend. The event includes cross-country skiing, a human-powered sled race and everything from painting classes to winter archery.
Deer Valley Resort, Park City, UT
Over the river and through the woods... This year, make the old-fashioned winter sleigh ride of your sugar-plum dreams a reality. In Park City, several reputable companies offer these services, and all are as magical as you imagined as a child.
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