Top Local outdoor vacation spots in utah
Let's face it. This heat has been unreasonable. Here are a few of our favorite spots that offer a little relief from this heatwave. At least they have some water nearby to jump in! :)
1. Mirror Lake: Located between Kamas & Evanston Wyoming, Mirror Lake offers walking/hiking trails, camping, fishing, & non-motor boating. Though water is low, mirror lake is high in elevation which offers a lower temp. Named for the reflection of the mountainscape atop the surface, the natural beauty of the area is not to be overlooked. Be it for a day trip on a picnic or for a weekend camping adventure, we love the time spent up at mirror lake.
2. Scofield Reservoir: With water levels dropping low, one must look for joy where one can. At Scofield, you can drive down to the beach, park the car for a day swim & enjoy the day. Scofield is located less than 2 hours southeast from the Salt Lake Metro area. The drive is simply breathtaking. Bring the boat, your fishing rod, & your paddleboard - you'll be sure to use them all. Not far from the area you'll find plenty of trails for hiking, driving the side-by-side, or any other entertainments you might enjoy. Whether you are looking for a day trip or to camp, this spot is sure to please.
3. Flaming Gorge: While a bit further in distance, Flaming Gorge will always be 'top dog' in terms of beautiful mountainous destinations (at least in Britt's book). Boating on the 90-mile reservoir offers a range of climates from dense forestry on the Utah side, to dry desert on the Wyoming border. Fishing ranges from Bass to Lake Trout. Not only is the lake close by, rafting & fishing down the Green River never disappoints. Wildlife inhabits the area & if you simply take the time to look, you may get lucky enough to share space with some of the wonderful creatures that frequent the unique area. From bighorn sheep to wild turkey & buffalo, you can't always predict what you'll see up at 'The Gorge' but you can bet it will be breathtaking.
4. Fish Lake: Recently renovated with cabin accommodations for the whole family, Fish Lake is the perfect destination for the family that wants to experience it all. Mountain living, water play, fishing - you name it! South of Salt Lake, the couple of hours of drive time is well worth it. Not to mention - the drive alone is a breathtaking afternoon.
5. Provo River: Rafting, Tubing, & Fishing - an afternoon of fun. The Provo River has guided tours, tube rental options, & just an overall great day floating the river. Utah Law requires every person floating the river to have a life jacket & you will want to make sure that one way or another you have transportation from bottom to top. High Country Adventure has a setup that takes care of the hard part such as equipment & transport for you if you are looking for a more inclusive experience.
Utah has a uniquely beautiful landscape & we hope you’ll enjoy all the glorious wonder we have to offer while escaping away to the mountains for a few days this summer. Enjoy!
